Push-fit systems · Basics
What sets iFIT apart from other push-fit fittings?
“Push-fit fitting” covers very different designs. In the GF iFIT push-fit system, grip ring and O-rings sit in a separate adapter and the module clicks onto it. In the widespread brass push-fit fittings, the grip ring sits in the fitting itself. Then there is the compression fitting with spanner and nut – and pressing with a tool. This page sets the four methods side by side: tools, preparation of the pipe end, approved pipes, detachability, reusability and visual check – every statement marked as manufacturer information.
The four designs in one sentence each
- Push-fit system with adapter (GF iFIT): grip ring and two O-rings sit in the adapter, which is pushed onto the chamfered, calibrated pipe; the module clicks onto the adapter. The holding technology sits on the pipe, not in the fitting.
- Push-fit fitting with built-in grip ring: grip ring and seal are fixed in the brass fitting; the deburred pipe is pushed straight in. Common for copper and stainless steel tube.
- Compression fitting: a nut presses a compression ring onto the pipe – tightened with two open-ended spanners, with a support sleeve for soft pipes.
- Pressing: the tool deforms fitting and pipe permanently – not detachable, but with the widest range in dimensions and media.
The comparison in detail
| Criterion | Push-fit system with adapter (GF iFIT) | Push-fit fitting with grip ring | Compression fitting | Pressing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tools | Pipe shears or pipe cutter, chamfering/calibrating tool per dimension – no power, no press tool | Pipe cutter, deburrer – no power | two open-ended spanners, pipe cutter, deburrer – no power | Press tool with jaws or slings per dimension, pipe cutter, deburrer, calibrating mandrel for composite pipe |
| Preparation | Cut the pipe square, chamfer (chamfer ≥ 1 mm) and calibrate, push the adapter on up to the stop | Cut the pipe square, deburr, mark the insertion depth | Cut the pipe to length, deburr, insert a support sleeve in soft pipes, tighten the nut as specified by the manufacturer | Cut the pipe to length, deburr, calibrate, mark the insertion depth, press |
| Pipe types | Polybutylene pipe (PB) and multilayer composite pipe PE-RT II/Al/PE-RT II of the system | Copper tube, stainless steel tube and certain plastic pipes – depending on the supplier | Copper tube, stainless steel tube, plastic and composite pipe with support sleeve | Copper, stainless steel, carbon steel, composite and plastic pipe – depending on the system |
| Can it be undone? | detachable – the adapter is destroyed in the process (according to GF), new adapter for the next assembly | detachable only if the supplier provides a release tool – the grip ring sits in the fitting itself, not in an adapter | detachable, the compression ring stays on the pipe | not detachable – the joint is cut out |
| Reuse | Module reusable according to GF, adapter not | Fitting usually reusable to a limited extent only | Fitting reusable with a new compression ring | not reusable |
| Visual check | Inspection window of the adapter completely filled by the pipe, audible click, pull-back test (up to 5 mm permissible), leak test | Mark the insertion depth, pull test, leak test | Tightening torque or number of turns as specified by the manufacturer, leak test | Press contour, “leaks when unpressed” feature on many systems, leak test |
| Sizes | d16–d32 | usually 15–28 mm | usually 10–54 mm | 12–108 mm (composite up to 75 mm) |
| Note | System approval for pipe and module together (DVGW, manufacturer information) – limits 10 bar / 70 °C | The grip ring holds the pipe by biting into it – the pipe surface must be smooth and undamaged | Proven for valve connections and repairs – needs room for the spanners | Widest range in dimensions and media – more under press systems |
Which design for what
For polybutylene and composite pipe at floor level – connections, extensions, repairs – the push-fit system with adapter is the fastest option with the clearest visual check. Grip-ring push-fit fittings are the usual choice when a copper or stainless steel tube is to be joined without a flame and it has to be quick. The compression fitting remains the proven solution at the valve connection and for repairs where there is room for two spanners. And where dimensions above d32, compressed air or industrial media are required, the route leads to the press system.
Important for all designs: what is approved is always the combination of fitting and the pipe released for it. A composite pipe of another system never belongs in an iFIT adapter – and vice versa. How to identify existing pipes and make a clean transition: transitions to other systems.
Further reading
How a push-fit joint works · GF iFIT at a glance · for planners and fitters: the joining methods comparison with all seven methods including welding, threading, flanges and soldering.
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Technical basis: GF iFIT brochures and practice guide (authorised-dealer material, use approved), market documents on grip-ring push-fit fittings, compression-fitting manufacturer catalogues, Viega and Geberit brochures. Information without guarantee – the binding approval remains with the respective manufacturer.