Press Jaws
Press jaws are what make copper, stainless and multilayer pipe press systems work properly on site. Get the right profile, size and fit first time.
If you're fitting heating, hot and cold, or commercial pipe runs, the wrong jaw will stop the job dead. These press jaws are for clean, repeatable crimps that save time over soldering and cut down snagging. Check profile, pipe system and tool compatibility before you buy, then get the set that matches the work in front of you.
What Are Press Jaws Used For?
- Crimping copper pipe fittings on domestic and commercial plumbing jobs where you need fast, consistent joints without dragging out gas, flux and solder.
- Pressing stainless and multilayer systems in plant rooms, risers and tight service voids where open flame work is awkward or not allowed.
- Working on first fix heating installs where repeated joints need to be neat, matched to the pipe system and done quickly across long runs.
- Handling repair and maintenance work in occupied buildings where a press system helps keep disruption down and gets water back on sooner.
Choosing the Right Press Jaws
Sorting the right press jaws is simple. Match the jaw to the pipe system and tool first, or you'll waste money and lose time on site.
1. Profile Comes First
If your fittings need M, V, TH or another profile, buy that exact profile and nothing close to it. A jaw that almost matches is no use when the fitting manufacturer specifies otherwise.
2. Check Tool Compatibility
Not every press jaw fits every press tool. If you're already running a certain machine, check the mounting and approved compatibility before ordering, especially if you're replacing a single jaw rather than buying a full set.
3. Buy the Sizes You Actually Use
If most of your work is domestic, the common smaller sizes will earn their keep quickest. If you're on commercial or plant work, make sure you're covered for the larger pipe sizes before the job starts.
4. Single Jaw or Full Set
If you've damaged one size or only need a specific pipe diameter, a single replacement makes sense. If you're doing full installs across mixed pipe sizes, a set saves you chasing missing jaws halfway through first fix.
Who Uses These on Site?
- Plumbers use press jaws day in, day out for copper and multilayer installs because they speed up repetitive jointing and cut out hot works on refurbs.
- Heating engineers rely on them for boiler swaps, cylinder installs and radiator circuits where neat, fast connections matter and downtime needs keeping short.
- Mechanical fitters keep the right profiles in the van for plant room and commercial pipework, especially when working overhead or in cramped corners.
- Maintenance teams reach for press jaws on live buildings because they let them repair or alter pipe runs with less mess and fewer shutdown headaches.
The Basics: Understanding Press Jaws
Press jaws do one critical job. They shape the fitting correctly when used with a compatible press tool, and that only works when the profile and size match the pipe system.
1. The Jaw Matches the Fitting Profile
Different pipe systems use different press profiles. The jaw has to match that profile exactly so the fitting is compressed the way the manufacturer intended and the joint seals properly.
2. The Size Matches the Pipe Diameter
Each jaw is made for a set pipe size. Use the wrong size and you risk a bad press, a failed test and a return visit you did not need.
3. The Tool Supplies the Force
The press tool closes the jaw around the fitting with the required pressure. Your job is making sure the jaw, fitting and tool all belong to the same system before you start pressing joints across a run.
Press Jaw Extras That Save Hassle on Site
A few supporting bits make press work quicker, cleaner and less likely to stall halfway through a job.
1. Carry Cases and Storage
Keep jaws separated by size and profile so you're not tipping loose steel out in the van looking for the one you need. Proper storage also helps stop the wrong jaw getting dragged onto the wrong job.
2. Compatibility Adaptors
If your press setup allows adaptors, they can stop you replacing more kit than necessary. Just make sure the adaptor is approved for the exact tool and jaw arrangement you are using.
3. Inspection and Cleaning Gear
A clean rag and basic inspection routine sound obvious, but dirt, swarf and site muck on the jaw face can cost you a poor press. Clean them before they go back in the case.
Choose the Right Press Jaws for the Job
Start with the pipe system, then work back to profile, size and tool fit.
| Your Job | Category or Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic copper plumbing and heating | Small size press jaws | Correct fitting profile, common domestic diameters, compatibility with your existing press tool |
| Commercial pipe runs and plant room work | Larger diameter press jaws | Wider size coverage, exact system match, built for repeated use across longer installs |
| Mixed first fix work across several pipe sizes | Press jaw set | Multiple sizes in one case, easier van organisation, less chance of missing a key size on site |
| Replacing one damaged or missing jaw | Single replacement press jaw | Exact size match, exact profile match, direct fit for your press tool setup |
Common Buying and Usage Mistakes
- Buying the wrong jaw profile for the fitting system is the big one. The fix is simple. Check the pipe manufacturer's required profile before you order anything.
- Assuming all press jaws fit all press tools wastes time and can leave you with kit you cannot use. Always check the exact compatibility list for your machine first.
- Trying to cover every possible job with one or two jaws usually means getting caught short on site. Buy the sizes you use most, then add the less common ones based on the work you actually price.
- Using dirty or visibly worn jaws can lead to poor presses and failed testing. Clean them after use and inspect the pressing surfaces before they go back in the case.
- Treating press jaws like a universal accessory instead of a system component causes problems later. Match jaw, fitting, pipe and tool as one setup, not as separate bits grabbed from the van.
Single Press Jaws vs Press Jaw Sets vs Interchangeable Systems
Single Press Jaws
Best when you know exactly what size and profile you need or you're replacing a damaged jaw. Cheapest route up front, but not much help if your work jumps between several pipe sizes in a week.
Press Jaw Sets
Better for installers doing regular first fix and second fix across a full system. You pay more initially, but you stop losing time hunting extra sizes when the job changes halfway through.
Interchangeable Systems
Useful if your work covers different press systems or you run more than one compatible tool platform. Good flexibility, but only if you stay strict on approved adaptors and exact profile matching.
Maintenance and Care
Clean After Each Job
Wipe off dust, grit and moisture before the jaw goes back in the case. Site muck left on the pressing faces is asking for trouble on the next run of fittings.
Check for Wear and Damage
Look over the pressing profile, pivot points and general condition before use. If the jaw is visibly worn, cracked or knocked out of shape, pull it from service and replace it.
Store by Size and Profile
Keep jaws in their proper slots or marked storage so sizes do not get mixed up. That saves time on site and stops the wrong profile being picked up in a rush.
Keep Them Dry
Do not leave them rolling round a damp van floor or sat in standing water. Dry storage helps prevent rust and keeps moving parts working as they should.
Replace, Do Not Risk It
If a jaw has taken a hard knock or no longer closes and aligns properly, do not chance it on a live install. Replacing one jaw is cheaper than chasing leaks behind finished work.
Why Shop for Press Jaws at ITS?
Whether you need a single replacement or a full set of press jaws UK trades actually use, we've got the proper range covered. You'll also find Power Tool Accessories, More Accessories, Drill Bits, Saw Blades and Sanding Pads & Sheets in stock in our own warehouse, ready for next day delivery.
Press Jaws FAQs
What are press jaws used for?
Press jaws are used to crimp press fittings onto pipe when fitted to a compatible press tool. They are common on copper, stainless and multilayer installs where you want fast, repeatable joints without soldering.
How do I choose the right press jaws?
Start with the fitting system and required profile, then check the jaw size and tool compatibility. The right one is the jaw that matches your exact pipe system and machine, not the one that looks close enough.
Are press jaws suitable for trade use?
Yes, that is exactly what they are for. Proper press jaws are built for repeated site and install work, but they still need the right matching tool, regular checks and clean storage if you want reliable results.
What should I check before buying press jaws?
Check four things before anything else. Fitting profile, pipe size, tool compatibility and whether you need a single jaw or a full set. Miss one of those and you can end up with kit that never makes it onto the job.
Can I buy press jaws online from ITS?
Yes. You can buy press jaws online from ITS and get the exact size or set you need without chasing round merchants. Check the spec properly, order the right fit, and get it moving for the next job.
