2026 Buyer’s Guide: 22KN vs. 32KN Hydraulic Pipe Press Tools

Not sure which pressing force you need?

Use this quick guide to choose the right tool for your pipe materials, sizes, and job sites in under 30 seconds.

⚡ At-a-Glance Comparison

Feature 22KN Series (Model 12522) 32KN Series (Model 20032)
Best For 🏠 Residential & Domestic 🏢 Commercial & Heavy Trade
Primary Users Plumbers, HVAC Techs, Property Maintenance Building Contractors, Commercial Installers
Max Copper / Steel (V & M) Up to 28 mm (15  / 22 / 28 mm) Up to 28 mm+ (Ready for 35 mm expansion)
Max Multilayer (TH & U) Up to 32 mm (16 / 20 / 25 / 26 / 32 mm)
Key Advantage Compact & Lightweight for tight spaces Maximum Force & Fatigue Endurance
Battery System 2x 18V 4Ah (Makita 18V Compatible) 2x 18V 4Ah (Makita 18V Compatible)

🏠 22KN Series: The Residential Workhorse

Designed for maximum flexibility and single-handed comfort during daily domestic plumbing and heating installations.

Best Used For:

  • Domestic Plumbing: Apartment & house renovation (kitchen, bathroom, water supply).

  • Heating Installations: Underfloor heating manifolds & radiator connection loops.

  • Tight-Space Work: Ceiling voids, under-sink spaces, and tight wall corners.

  • Standard Pipe Repairs: Replacing 15–28mm copper or PEX/MLCP pipes in residential properties.

💡 Why Choose 22KN?

  • Lightweight & Ergonomic: Reduces arm fatigue during overhead or repetitive single-handed pressing.

  • Perfect ROI for Residential Trade: Delivers all the power needed for 90%+ of domestic plumbing jobs without paying extra for unused heavy machinery.

🏢 32KN Series: The Commercial Heavyweight

Engineered for high-tonnage demanding job sites, commercial buildings, and large-diameter main lines.

Best Used For:

  • Commercial Buildings: Hospitals, schools, hotels, and office block plumbing.

  • Boiler & Plant Rooms: Heavy-duty central heating loops and plant room connections.

  • Main Risers & Distribution: Pressing 28mm+ main water supply risers.

  • Continuous Site Work: Non-stop, team-shift operations requiring high thermal & mechanical endurance.

💡 Why Choose 32KN?

  • Unrivalled Power Reserve: Easily handles thick-walled stainless steel, carbon steel, and heavy commercial fittings with zero risk of under-crimping.

  • Future-Proof Capability: Provides the required hydraulic tonnage if you need to scale up to 35mm commercial fittings.

Quick Decision Checklist: Which One Should You Buy?

Buy the 22KN Tool if:

  • ✅ You primarily work on residential housing, apartments, or domestic HVAC.

  • ✅ You value a lightweight, compact tool for working overhead or in cramped spaces.

  • ✅ Your maximum pipe sizes are 28mm for metal or 32mm for multilayer/PEX.

Buy the 32KN Tool if:

  • ✅ You work on commercial construction sites, plant rooms, or main riser pipes.

  • ✅ You frequently press thick-walled stainless steel or carbon steel.

  • ✅ You need a heavy-duty machine built for all-day, continuous industrial use.