Speedfit of the UK has introduced a new and improved fitting for plumbing and heating applications.

The new Twist and Lock Fittings have the same grip and then seal method of stainless steel teeth and 'O' ring which has been a feature of the Speedfit design since the early 70s, says a spokesman for the company.

''The new additional benefit is the facility to lock the fitting,'' he explains. ''Having pushed the pipe into the fitting, a simple twist of the screw cap locks the pipe into position and increases the compression of the 'O' ring -giving extra sealing security.

He continues: ''As with other Speedfit products, the fitting can be disconnected and re-used without the need for replacement parts. The screw cap is twisted to the unlock position, the collet is depressed and the pipe withdrawn.

''Red and blue collet clips are available so that pipes can be colour-coded.

''Another unique feature of Speedfit is a special 'Superseal' pipe insert with its own 'O' ring which gives a secondary seal against the inside of the fitting.

''A good connection is, therefore, made without relying on the main 'O' ring sealing around the surface of the pipe. This means that score marks on the outside diameter of the pipe will not unduly affect the integrity of the watertight connection.''

With over 150 items in the range, Speedfit says it can caters for any plumbing or heating situation. The flexibility of Speedfit Barrier pipe gives it the ability to be threaded through concealed or inaccessible spaces. The system is therefore of particular advantage in confined spaces, the spokesman points out.

Speedfit products are Kitemarked to BS7291 Parts 1 and 3 Class S. and are BBA and WRAS Listed, he adds.