The name and process, of speed-fit connection has been in the trade for quite some time . The name Speedfit really refers to a trade name, however it is a great description of the product. A second name is pushfit plumbing, doing the same thing with these fittings. The speedfit fittings are a great time saver. There were initially lots of old school plumbers who refused to use these types of fittings, but they are now up to British Standards and are widely accepted and used. A South Kensington Plumber is trained to connect all pipework. They are available in great numbers and are quick and secure and best of all quick, hence the speed-fit name. These require no special tooling to fit but there is an ‘O’ ring inside the fitting that can be damaged when the pipes are cut. The best way to cut copper pipe is to use a pipe slice and pipe cutters for plastic. Fitting a Push or Speed-Fit Fitting something called a pipe insert needs to be used in the end of the pipes to stop them from collapsing, and also confirms the pipe is completely round ensuring the best possible seal between the ‘O’ ring and the outside diameter of the pipe. Make sure the pipe is cut square and remove burrs and sharp edges as these will damage the rubber ‘O’ ring. Always use a pipe cutter rather than a hacksaw. South Kensington Plumbers only supply experienced professionals. Once the pipe is inserted, an ‘O’ ring seals in the water in the normal way and (depending on the model) a special plastic grab ring, or a collett with stainless steel teeth, grips the tube securely to prevent water under mains pressure forcing the joint apart. Joints fitted with collects can be disconnected easily, but to dismantle the other type of push fit joint, it is necessary to remove the retaining cap and prize open the grab ring using a special tool. Push-fit joints are more obtrusive than their solvent welded equivalents, but are much faster to assemble.