Heating and Ventilating

Uponor has unveiled a new professional fitting system which, it is claimed, will take plumbing to new levels thanks to its ‘Tool Inside’ technology and high pressure joint system. The RTM, or Ring Tension Memory, system is designed to eliminate the need for tools to make quick, safe and professional joints.
Says the company: 'A built-in visual indicator means installers can never be in any doubt that the joint has been made securely and the constant pressure applied by the connecting device means the joint will never be weakened or disconnected.'

Uponor plumbing applications manager, Neil Young, explains the technology behind the new device. 'RTM is a simple yet highly effective new way of installing plumbing systems and signifies a huge step forward for the industry.

'The secret to the joint's security lies in the high tension metal ring inside the device. Constructed from high carbon steel, the spring-like ring uses the same technology as the automotive industry uses for ABS brakes. Its memory effect ensures watertightness and its constant and consistent
pressure acts as the tool itself, applying a pressure of around two tonnes.'

The RTM device means making a joint is as straightforward as inserting a length of cut and calibrated pipe into the connector, claims Uponor. An audible click is heard when the joint is secure and, for added peace of mind, a visual indicator means that the installer can see at a glance that the connection has been made.

Mr Young adds: 'The most important aspect of the joint, the RTM ring fitting itself, is visible through a transparent window. The joint indicators keep the ring under tension until the joint is made and becomes detached upon connection with the pipe. They are also colour coded to indicate the diameter of the pipe. We describe this as the 'tool-inside' concept.' RTM works in tandem with Uponor's existing multi-layer composite pipe which is said to offer several benefits over copper including speed and ease of installation, price stability, joint security, as well as requiring fewer joints, eliminating the need for hot works and is not prone to theft as copper is.