In 2014, law changes took effect nationwide, designed to get the lead out of plumbing fixtures. As existing potable water systems are replaced and new commercial structures are built, lead-free, easy-to-install systems have increased in demand. Viega, a leading producer of lead-free fittings, introduced its line of ProPress Zero Lead Ball Valves for copper fittings especially for that purpose.

“This valve is made of our Zero Lead silicon bronze alloy, which was developed specifically with pressing in mind,” says Kate Lee, product manager at Viega. “It also employs our Smart Connect feature, a design of the press connection which indicates any unpressed joints. This provides installers with added confidence in their connections.”

The bronze ball valves are full-port and designed for potable water applications. They are available in 1/2- and 3/4-inch press sizes and 3/4-inch hose sizes. They include a lockable metal handle, stainless steel ball and EPDM sealing element.

“A full-port press X hose ball valve provides the same benefits as our standard ball valves, such as the full-port ball, quarter-turn operation, ease of installation and a dezincification-resistant Zero Lead bronze alloy developed specifically for pressing,” says Lee. “The hose end makes this valve ideal for system draining, filling and purging systems, and hooking up temporary connections to a system. This particular valve is suitable for a variety of applications including potable water, chilled water and ethanol.”

The Viega ProPress for copper systems itself is available in more than 600 fitting configurations, in copper tube sizes ranging from 1/2 to 4 inches. The Smart Connect feature provides installers with added confidence in their ability to ensure the integrity of connections.

“The ProPress system, including valves, is used in a variety of applications,” says Lee. “It has been tested both internally and by certifying agencies for hundreds of applications and has been installed in schools, hotels, museums, hospitals, airports, stadiums, breweries, printing, painting, power plants and other industries.”

Viega ProPress, introduced in 1999, is the original press pipe joining system for copper tubing. The system joins copper tubing in seconds without flame or heavy equipment. It can be customized to suit nearly any residential, commercial, industrial or marine application from potable water to natural gas.

“Press pipe joining is a good fit for most applications, including potable water, because it saves time and labor,” says Lee. “ProPress fittings are fast and easy to install. There is no flux that needs to be flushed out. They can be installed while the system is wet and even under slight pressure, making them ideal for repairs with very little downtime. Because no soldering is required, fire watches and hot work permits aren’t necessary.” 800/976-9819; www.viega.us.