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General News

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General News

New Corporate Video

07/03/20220

2022 sees AusPress turn 30 years old. AusPress has been supporting the Australian market since 1992 and has earned an enviable reputation of quality products, sound advice and professional service to many sectors including Food & Beverage, Construction, Marine, Mining and Industrial projects. In celebration of achieving 30 years of success, we have released an informative new corporate video reminding the market of our products and services. Follow this link and enjoy the show!!

General News, Technical

Chlorine V Chlorides

30/08/20210

Choosing the correct grade of stainless steel for your piping system requires (at the very least) information about the temperature, pH and chemical composition of the contents.  One of the most important items of the chemical composition is how much chloride (salt) is present.  Analysis reports often give the concentration as milligrams per litre (mg/L) or sometimes as parts per million (ppm) of Cl.  However, Cl is also the symbol used for the element chlorine.

So what is the difference?

Chlorine is a poisonous, yellowish green gas which readily dissolves in water to give a strong disinfectant or bleach.  The strength of a bleach solution is sometimes measured by the “available chlorine” or “free chlorine”.  Swimming pools are usually treated with dilute hypochlorite solutions which produce a few parts per million (ppm) of chlorine.  This acts as a strong, oxidising biocide.  Drinking water is normally treated to give a residual of 0.2 to 0.5 mg/L of chlorine.  (There are also other disinfection methods such as chloramine or ozone.) The Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG) limits the amount of Chlorine in potable water to a maximum of 5 ppm (5mg/l).

Chlorine is very aggressive to stainless steels.  The Nickel Institute guidelines for continuous exposure at ambient temperatures (~20˚C) and neutral pH (~ pH7), are that 304 can cope with 2ppm chlorine and 316 ~5ppm chlorine.  Higher limits are suitable if a flushing schedule is introduced to the project. In alkaline solutions (pH>7) higher concentrations are possible but this does not help much in swimming pools or drinking water.  Chlorine frequently causes corrosion problems in Stainless Steel.  Chlorine attack can occur with bleach laden washdown water if pools of water form in drains which are usually empty.  Chlorine concentrations in droplets or water films immediately above a still pool or water tank can be higher than the chlorine level in the bulk water. When dosing concentrated chlorine into pipes or tanks, it must be well mixed otherwise concentrated streams will eat out downstream elbows or tank walls near the chlorine inlet.

Much higher concentrations can be used for short periods as the attack on the stainless steel must initiate and form a stable pit for failure to occur.  The American Water and Wastewater Association permits 25 ppm for 24 hours in cases of emergency disinfection.  The food industry can use up to 100 ppm in hot water for minutes followed by rinsing and/or passivation.  It is an effective biocide because the kill rate depends on (exposure time) * (concentration of biocide) but the stainless steel is resistant to the chlorine for the relatively short, high concentration exposure.

And what about chlorides?

Chloride occurs naturally in drinking water and ranges from less than 10 mg/L in Melbourne to more than 200 mg/L in Adelaide. Chloride is not oxidising and is not a biocide.  The most common form is sodium chloride.  Seawater is about 3% sodium chloride although there are other compounds.  Nickel Institute guidelines for continuous exposure at neutral pH and ambient temperatures permit chloride levels of 200 ppm for 304, 1000 ppm for 316 and 3600 ppm for 2205 duplex.  The guidelines allow for the presence of crevices (such as bolt heads, flanges or deposits) but assume that the surface has been passivated. In alkaline environments (pH>7) higher chloride levels can be tolerated.  Higher temperatures reduce the permissible chloride level. Temperatures over 60˚C are not recommended for 304 or 316 as they are at risk of sudden failure from chloride stress corrosion cracking. The chart below demonstrates the effects of temperature on allowable chlorides.


Summary

Chlorine and chloride are different forms of the same element but with vastly different effects on stainless steel.  Chlorine is bleach and stainless steels can only tolerate exposure to a few ppm continuously.  Chloride is part of the salt in natural waters and even 304 can cope with a few hundred ppm at ambient temperatures and pH~7.

For more information, please refer to our catalogue or our our technical data sheet

General News

The benefits of Annealed Stainless Steel

26/07/20210

Stainless steel has been popular since it was invented. As stainless steel materials have good properties like corrosion resistance and high strength, products made of stainless steel materials are widely applied in our life and industry.

AusPress has been distributing Stainless Steel Press-Fit systems for more than 25 years and is arguably the most experienced company in Australia in this field. Knowing the risks and benefits of any system is a key responsibility of any manufacturer or distributor. AusPress understand that water quality can differ from state to state, town to town and suburb to suburb. The vast majority of any corrosion or pitting in stainless steel systems is caused by water quality, in particular the harshness of the water or the chloride levels. It is for this reason that 12 months ago, AusPress decided to move to fully annealed tube for our stainless steel press-fit system. Our annealed tube is now available in all sizes from 15mm to 168mm.

 

Annealing stainless steel is critical to certain applications where superior corrosion resistance is necessary. Generally, the more complex the alloy, the more difficult the annealing process (however, austenitic and some ferritic stainless steel types are easy to anneal). The process relieves the stresses of manufacturing and softens the steel down to a point where it can be more easily manipulated. It also improves ductility, which is a desired finished property for certain applications. Stainless steel tube annealing is an important production process and the heat treatment is carried out under controlled conditions to avoid carburisation, decarburisation and scaling on the metal surface. Unlike the annealing process of copper (where the copper tube becomes soft and permeable) the process used to anneal stainless steel (rapid heat and rapid cold) causes the tube molecules to relax along the weld line to aid in corrosion resistance, but the tube remains rigid and strong.

Stainless steel tube annealing is a solution treatment employed for recrystallising the work-hardened austenitic stainless steels and drawing chromium carbides. In addition, stainless steel tube annealing removes stresses that occur during cold-welding, and homogenises dendritic stainless steel welds which are a typical starting point for pitting corrosion.

With the vast majority of press-fit stainless tubes being TIG welded, as the tube is formed and welded, it leaves vulnerabilities in the welded joint which act as a major stress point. In simple terms, the annealing process relaxes these stress points and therefore offers a much higher level of corrosion resistance which further aids in a much higher level of pitting resistance.

The annealing process is completed by placing the finished tube into a furnace at a temperature of 1040°C, but certain types of steel can be annealed at the temperature below 1010°C. This high temperature is required to ensure a brighter appearance. Heating is done as fast as possible as slow heat will result in oxidation.

After the treatment, the hardness can be enhanced and the metallic luster can be maintained. Stainless steel tube annealing helps to improve the quality and pitting corrosion resistance. In addition to the annealing process, there are also other production processes. For example, there are processes like quench annealing, hardening, cooling and stress reliving. Different processes are aimed to strengthen the certain properties of the stainless steel tubes.

When completing your next project, ensure you use the highest quality products available to ensure a low maintenance and long life installation. Speak to your local AusPress representative for more information.

 

General News, Marine

AusPress confirms business alliance with Varivane UK

16/07/20210

Since 1984, Marine Equipment International (MEI) had been supplying the Royal Australian Navy and contractors quality equipment and solutions. Since our Acquisition of MEI in mid 2020, AusPress have further grown our exposure into the marine sector and we are pleased to further cement our business alliance with Varivane UK – who have been operating with the Naval sector globally since 1962.

Varivane have unparalleled experience in the design and manufacture of marine furniture, and have developed a world-class reputation for quality standards and the wide variety of services that they offer. Couple this with the range of marine products already offered by AusPress and we can now further extend our already extensive product packaging

Varivane have completed work for all Naval Vessels; including; QEC Carriers, Type 26 Frigates Type 45 Destroyers, HMS Bulwark, HMS Albion, HMS Ocean, Type 22 & Type 23 Frigates, Type 42 Destroyers, River Boat Class, OPV, RFA Vessels and the decommissioned Ark Royal, Illustrious & Invincible Aircraft Carriers.

Varivane is the design authority, OEM and prime contractor to BAE, Babcock and the Royal Navy for:
–  Ships Furniture
–  Ammunition and Decoy Stowage Lockers
–  Security Containers

They are also the preferred supplier thorough consortiums and partnerships for:
–  Ships Medical Theatre Equipment
–  Smoke, Fire & Blackout Curtains
–  Mattresses
– Ships Upholstery

Varivane have supported the Royal Navy fleet (UK) for over 30 years, for new-build projects, ship support and refurbishment, holding the enabling contract from the UK Ministry of Defence for the manufacture and supply of furniture to Royal Navy vessels. Their expertise in this field is second to none. 

Variavne are currently assisting the Ministry of Defence in updating its furniture designs, including an upgrade of equipment in the existing fleet and the improvement of equipment on new-build vessels. A new generation of furniture is currently in development, based on the proven technical criteria and ergonomics of NES128, but updated to an improved and more modern aesthetic standard.

AusPress, in close consultation with Varivane will continue to support the Australian marine industry well into the future.

For more information, visit our products page or contact us.

General News

AusPress strengthens ties with TAFE

29/06/20200

Thanks to The Master Plumbers Association of South Australia for their recent feature on our association with TAFE SA and our continued support in the development of South Australian Plumbing Apprentices with their article entitled: Working with TAFE SA to Develop Future Skills

AusPress Systems are proud to be involved with the South Australian TAFE colleges and frequently assist as part of their continued product and technical knowledge development.

With the past supply of stainless drainage pipe and fittings plus stainless press-fit product for the fire services training area, the latest supply of the new civil product “KG2000” polypropylene drainage to TAFE continues our support in providing lecturers and apprentices with the latest product offerings to train with.

We have working models set up at the leading Tonsley TAFE campus to help apprentices be familiar with the correct installation and handling of the latest products for the transition from classroom to trench.

These same products are being used extensively across Adelaide with an increase in commercial and industrial projects specifying their installation, particularly in healthcare, food, meat and beverage processing.

Each year AusPress contribute to the leading Certificate 4 apprentice, awarding them a press tool set including the SPM24 tool and their choice of jaws to suit copper, stainless or pex press systems. This tool was developed to be the ‘go-to’ tool for press systems up to 32mm and an excellent addition to the toolbox.

Established in 1992 (originally named Blucher Australia Pty Ltd), we’re based in Adelaide and supply commercial and industrial projects Australia wide.

Over the years, our product range has grown, as has our knowledge and technical expertise. Today we remain 100% South Australian owned and operated; and we continue to be the market leader in the supply of drainage and press-fit products when hygiene, performance and reliability are critical.

For more information call 1300 287 773 or visit us at www.auspress.com.au

General News

AusPress acquires MEI assets

11/05/20200

We are excited to announce that AusPress Systems Pty Ltd (AusPress) has entered into an agreement to acquire the assets of Marine Equipment International (MEI) under a new entity AusPress MEI Pty Ltd (APMEI) effective 11th May 2020.

MEI has been a leading supplier into the Australian marine industry since 1984 and has a long and enviable record of supplying quality products to the Marine (both Defence and Commercial), Industrial, Offshore, Energy, Mining and Engineering industries and in particular supply of specialist products to the Australian Navy and its prime contractors.

AusPress has been supplying quality Stainless Steel drainage and pressure products across Australia and New Zealand to the Commercial, Industrial, Medical, Resources, Mining, Marine and Food Processing industries since 1992.

This new arrangement will offer MEI customers a greater range of products (including copper press, tooling, Stainless Drainage and Polypropylene Civil Drainage) as well as a truly national distribution service with sales staff and technical support in each state. It will offer AusPress customers additional support and products in the marine sector as well as a second distribution centre in Sydney.

“This is an exciting time for both companies” said Jason Nelson, General Manger of AusPress and AusPress MEI. “MEI has such a fantastic reputation in the marine sector and has developed a large customer base. This acquisition will allow AusPress to further develop the MEI business by tapping into AusPress’ national coverage. At the same time, it gives AusPress’ customers on the East Coast an additional dispatch point with a warehouse in Fairfield, NSW ensuring faster product delivery times”

All enquiries for AusPress should continue to [email protected]

All enquiries for MEI should now be directed to [email protected]

For local sales or technical enquiries, please contract your local representative:

New South Wales:            Michael Donaldson           0430 303 623

Queensland:                       Payam Salehi                      0425 567 237

Queensland:                       Ray McMurray                  0433 114 999

South Australia:                Paul Lanthois                     0425 567 247

Victoria:                              Anthony McGrath             0424 325 533

Western Australia:           Shaun Tuppin                     0433 502 350

General News

Stainless Press Profiles

06/02/20200

There is always much discussion about which profile is better, “M” or “V”. At times and for general plumbing installations, the performance criteria are similar, if not the same for these profiles. However, there are differences in the higher end performance for each profile.

Let’s begin with history; The first press system was developed back in the 1950’s, was patented in 1962 and was the “M” profile. At the time, the system was granted a 50 year patent protection making it difficult for any competitors. Many years later, in 1989, the “V” profile was developed and released to market. Later again, in 1997, a slightly different profile, the “SA” profile was developed and released to market.

Why are they referred to as “M”, “V” and “SA”? Well, the first system was “M” profile and developed by Mannesman GmbH, the “V” profile was developed by Viega LLC and the “SA” profile was developed by Sanha GmbH. Clearly, the companies decided to use the first letters of their company names to label the profile they had developed.

What is the difference in the appearance of the fittings? Quite simply, the “V” profile has a “tail” leading from the fitting, whereas the “M” and “SA” profiles profiles do not.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is the difference in the performance of the fittings? This has been a debate for many years. However, all we can refer to is the recommendations of the manufacturers of both the fittings and the tooling. Gathering all of the available information and referring to manufacturers recommendations, we have developed the below chart for reference.

Maximum working pressure for potable water at ambient temperature (kpa)
“M” Profile “V”Profile “SA” Profile
Size Standard HP
15mm 4000 N/A 1600 1600
22mm 4000 N/A 1600 1600
28mm 2500 4000 1600 1600
35mm 2500 4000 1600 1600
42mm 2500 4000 1600 1600
54mm 2500 4000 1600 1600
76.1mm 1600 2500 N/A 1600
88.9mm 1600 2500 N/A 1600
108mm 1600 2500 N/A 1600
168.3mm 1600/2000* N/A N/A N/A
“Standard & HP” refer to Jaw types | “V” Profile maximum working pressures taken from technical catalogues of Viega & Connex Banninger |”SA” Profile maximum working pressures taken from Sanha | *168.3mm pressures differ depending on single pressing or double off-set pressing

Why is there a difference in the maximum allowable working pressure? It all comes down the press profile and the way the force is applied to the fittings when being pressed. As you will see in the above images, the “M” profile fitting allows for 4 press points, while the “V” Profile fitting allows for 3 and “SA” Profile allows for only 2 press points. This has a dramatic effect upon the overall security and pressure rating of the actual joint.

All manufacturers of press fittings use the same raw materials and are certified to the same standards. The biggest difference is the profile of the fittings and the tooling used. Based on all of this information, if you are looking for the maximum safety in any installation, “M” Profile fittings pressed using the appropriately rated tool (minimum 32 kN) and the relevant HP jaws should be used.

So, the next time you have a project and decide to use Stainless Press, ensure you use the right product that is fit for purpose and offers you the greatest security for your workmanship. For expert advice on any installation, please refer to our technical department.

General News

AusPress Supporting the RFS

06/01/20200

Record-breaking temperatures and months of severe drought have fueled a series of massive bush fires across Australia resulting in the worst natural disaster in our country’s history.

The fires, burning since September, have intensified over the past few weeks, with a number towns evacuated. As temperatures begin to drop and rain is starting to fall, we can only hope that mother nature will help our causes and see these fires gradually extinguished.

Most people feel helpless and can not begin to understand what those affected are going through. All we can do is offer our thoughts and support in any way we can. As a small token of our commitment to supporting the firefighters that are giving up their time and fighting for those that cannot fight for themselves, we have donated 500 bottles of water to be dispersed to the NSW RFS where it is most needed.

Our thoughts are with everyone affected and only hope these fires come to an end very soon.

General News

2019 – A year in review

23/12/20190

As 2019 comes to an end, we took the time to review our year and reflect upon the year that was.

In what proved to be a challenging year for AusPress, we were pleased to have finished the year on a high note with growing sales across the country, welcoming new staff to our team and introducing new products. Our warehouse has grown and we have introduced  KG2000 SN10 & SN16 Polypropylene Drainage System which has proven very popular with our current customers for trade waste and opened a new market sector for AusPress, Civil Drainage. We have also increased our support to various industry associations across the region, including Master Plumbers, Australian Water Associations, ASSDA, AHSCA, HCAA, Civil Contractors Federation and Pacific Water & Waste Water Association

After Introducing Blucher Stainless Steel drainage to Australia in 1992 and spending the next 26 years developing the market and supporting the industry, our distribution agreement with Blucher Denmark came to an end. To fill this gap, we entered into a new agreement with ACO to distribute their range of stainless steel drainage pipe and fittings. With this change, we expected some market turbulence and a drop in our sales. But we were pleasantly surprised when not only did we maintain our core customers and projects, but sales in this category for us actually slightly increased. We must thank our loyal and faithful customers as well as ACO Australia staff and management from Germany & Czech Republic for their support and assistance in getting special products made, certified and ready for the transition. We look forward to working with everyone in 2020.

During this time, we also said goodbye to a couple of our Sales team that went to work directly for Blucher. As much as we saw this as a challenge in the market,  sometimes fresh beginnings are exactly what everyone needs for both personal and business reasons. We scoured the country to find suitable people to join our team and have experienced a very positive transition. We are breaking company records in the NSW market and we have found the need to employ an additional sales person for Queensland. Effective January 2020, we will have 2 Sales people nurturing and supporting our great customers in Queensland to ensure we can maintain the rapid growth we have seen over the past few months. We also appointed and trained a new distributor in New Zealand that has opened up some new doors and new markets for us across the ditch.

So, as we reflect, we are very happy with our progression and growth in 2019 and we look forward to continuing to grow and support our loyal customer base into 2020 and beyond.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of our clients for their confidence in our abilities and loyalty this year and wish you and your families a wonderful and relaxing Christmas and New Year period.

AusPress began in 1992 and was originally trading as “Blucher Australia Pty Ltd” Growing organically for more than 25 years, AusPress has become the market leader in stainless steel drainage and pressure pipes specialising in Food Processing applications such as Dairies, Abattoirs, Wineries and Breweries.
AusPress now supplies a much wider array of products from Stainless Steel channels, pipes and fittings to Stainless Steel pressure pipes and fittings as well as Copper Press fittings, tooling solutions and Polypropylene Drainage pipes and fittings. Our products are now used extensively throughout Australia and New Zealand in Constructions, mining, marine and various industrial applications.

Our Company Presentation Video

01/07/20190