Conex Bänninger Reports Unprecedented Surge In Press Copper Demand

Press-Fit Copper Demand Surges Across UK Trade

Manufacturer Conex Bänninger has reported an unprecedented surge in demand for its Press copper fitting range across the UK market. The rapid uptake reflects a broader industry transition away from traditional soldering and flame-based jointing techniques in favor of mechanical press technology for domestic and commercial pipework installations.

Heating engineers and plumbers are increasingly switching to press systems to reduce installation times, eliminate on-site fire hazards, and satisfy stricter site safety requirements regarding hot works permits.

Efficiency Drives The Mechanical Jointing Market

The rise in press-fit adoption is reshaping the plumbing and heating sector. Flame-free installation eliminates the need for heavy gas bottles, flux, and solder, while removing the cool-down period required before testing systems. While press fittings carry a higher unit cost than traditional end-feed solder connections, installers offset this expense through reduced labor time per joint and lower site insurance risk.

What This Means For Tradespeople Buying Kit And Materials

What does this mean for a UK tradesperson or DIYer actually buying this kit — does it change what me they should pay, buy, or watch out for?

For installers visiting merchants like Screwfix, Toolstation, or independent plumbing suppliers, the shift toward press-fit copper requires upfront capital investment in compatible battery-powered press tools and jaw profiles. While individual Conex Bänninger press fittings cost noticeably more off the shelf than standard solder-ring or end-feed alternatives, total job costs often equalize through faster completion times. DIYers and small trade sole traders must ensure they buy or hire jaws that match the specific profile requirements of the fitting brand, as mismatched press profiles risk joint failure and void manufacturer guarantees.

Supply Considerations For Heating Engineers

With demand reaching record levels, trade professionals should plan pipework material sourcing in advance for larger commercial or domestic boiler refits to secure consistent fitting supplies across common sizes, including 15mm, 22mm, and 28mm profiles.

Reported by HPM Magazine — original article