Geberit Mapress Stainless Steel supply system by the Geberit Group is approved for use in Hong Kong. The stainless steel, non-soldered alternative is widely used in Asia as a safer, more durable alternative and replacement to lead piping and remove the risks of mixed metal supply systems. Although banned by most countries in the use of drinking water systems since 1980, the high cost of replacement, lack of access to water supply and lack of awareness over the risks of mixed-metal piping mean contamination remains a danger.
Mixed metal supply systems, when lead piping is connected to two other different metallic materials at both ends, usually steel and copper, can result in galvanic corrosion and poisoning of the water supply. In 2015, a lead contamination scare that occurred in Kai Ching Estate in Kowloon, which was traced back to mixed metal soldering as well as the discovery of excessive lead in the water supply for Kwai Tsui Estate in Kwai Fong in 2018, can cause severe health problems.
Following the scare, water industry experts highlighted that plumbing material control and commissioning requirements for new plumbing installations remain a crucial component ensuring the safety of water supply systems in the territory. As a result, each component must undergo strict testing to provide clean and safe building water supply.
The Geberit Mapress Stainless Steel range of products relies on a ground breaking attachment technology that replaces soldering with mechanical joints, thus removing the risk of water contamination through subpar soldering techniques and materials. Its surgical-grade stainless steel components have high corrosion resistance and are the ultimate choice over the now-banned unlined galvanised steel pipes. The fittings are quick to install using only simple pressing technology and are permanently leakproof.
