A company has introduced what it says is the HVAC market’s first press-to-connect fittings engineered for high-pressure copper refrigeration connections.

RLS’ patent-pending refrigeration press fittings eliminate the need to manually braze copper joints in HVAC construction, saving time, installation costs and eliminate the need for open flames.

With special tools, an RLS connection can be done in less than 25 seconds, saving 77 percent on labor costs, officials say.

“RLS press fittings represent a true game changer for the air conditioning and refrigeration industry, both for equipment manufacturers and for service technicians,” said Michael Duggan, RLS LLC’ general manager. “Not only are RLS connections cleaner and more consistent than brazed joints, they are also made much faster and more safely, thanks to the elimination of an open flame and flammable gas.”

Parker Hannifin’s Sporlan Division has been licensed to put the fittings into its HVACR products. Parker will sell the RLS-equipped products under the ZoomLock brand.

“We’re thrilled to have been selected as the exclusive partner to help bring RLS connection technology to the HVACR market,” says Mark Holdinghausen, Parker/Sporlan business manager. “Our OEM (original equipment manufacturer and contractor customers will see tremendous new increases in efficiency, quality, reliability and safety.”

The products were introduced at this week’s AHR Expo in Chicago.