Preparing The Tube; Inserting The Tube Into The Fitting - RIDGID ProPress Series Operator's Manual

ProPress

Preparing the Tube

1. If necessary, cut the desired length of the proper
tube for use with the fitting system. Use a tubing
cutter or other method that provides a clean cut
square to the axis of the tube. If using a vise or other
method to hold the tube during cutting, make sure that
the vise is far enough from the end of the tube not to
damage the section of tube that is inserted into the fit-
ting. Scratches on the outside diameter of the tube
and deformed tube can cause leaks.
2. Deburr the tube end inside and out with a file, ream-
er, deburring tool or other suitable tool. Burrs can cut
the sealing element of the fitting and cause leaks.
3. Clean the end of the tube of all dirt, oil and grease.
Improperly prepared tube can cause improper con-
nections, leaks and other property damage.

Inserting the Tube into the Fitting

1. Inspect the fitting per the manufacturer's instructions
to be sure all parts are present, in place and free of
dirt and debris. If fitting parts are missing or dirty, this
can cause improper connections, leaks and other
property damage. See Figure 7.
Figure 7A – Inspection of the ProPress Fitting per the
Manufacturer's Instructions
Control
Label
Figure 7B – Inspection of ProPress XL Fitting Prior to
Tube Insertion
8
® Fitting System
Seal
Stainless Steel
Grip Ring
Control
Label
Figure 7C – Inspection of XL-C Fitting Prior to Tube
Insertion
2. In some systems, there is a requirement to mark the
tube before insertion. Check the fitting manufacturer's
instructions, and if required, mark the tubing with a
permanent marker at the appropriate distance from
the tube end. This gives a visual reference that the
tube has been fully inserted into the fitting prior to
pressing the connection. See Figure 8.
Figure 8 – Marking the Tube Before Inserting Into Fitting
3. Fully insert the tube into the fitting. Most fittings have
a stop that the tube end contacts to indicate full
insertion. Other fittings do not have a stop and will
allow the tube to fully pass through the fitting, and are
typically used in repair applications. If there is no
stop, insert the tube so that the mark made in the pre-
vious step is even with the end of the fitting. In some
cases, a twisting motion during insertion makes the
process easier. Never use any lubricant unless the fit-
ting manufacturer specifically advises to. Lubricants
can degrade the seal and cause leaks. Tubing that is
difficult to insert may be out of round or have burrs on
the tube end, which can damage the seal and cause
leaks.
4. Make sure that the tube is fully inserted in the fitting
and if not marked in previous steps, mark the tube at
the end of the fitting to give a visual reference that the
tube is fully inserted. See Figures 9 and 10.
Ridge Tool Company
Seal
Grip
Ring