Copper pipe and tubing can be used in a variety of building and industrial projects. They are prized for their strength, durability and safety, and are found in plumbing, heating and cooling systems. Copper tubes are hollow cylinders made from pure copper. It serves as the conduit for water, gas, or coolant. People like it for its rust resistance, good heat conductivity and potential to last decades trouble-free.
Types of Copper Pipe & Tubing
Selecting the right type of copper tubing is crucial for both the safety and longevity of the heat system. There are also different types of copper pipe styles to choose from, based on thickness and what it will be used for.
By Type Code
Copper pipe types are also color coded to be easy to identify.
- Type K (Green Marking): Type K copper pipe is much thicker and is used for heavy-duty service. It is an ideal product to be used in underground water cold water pipes, water service connections, and high water pressure systems. It is frequently opted for tough jobs because it’s strong.
- Type L (Blue Marking): Type L copper pipe is for use in interior plumbing applications. It's strong enough for water supply lines in walls, fire protection lines and underground piping.
- Type M (Red Marking): M is thinner than K and L. Type M is used in residential plumbing and is not as expensive as Type L. It is typically not allowed in commercial plumbing, underground applications or potable water systems.
- DWV (Yellow Marking): DWV means Drain, Waste and Vent. This variety is intended for pressure-free systems, such as residential drains. While DWV is often plastic now, copper is still used in older buildings and occasionally for special applications.
By Temper
Copper tubing also comes in two types based on flexibility.
- Soft (Annealed) Copper: Soft copper is bendable and requires no bending tools to shape it. It’s used for refrigerant lines, gas lines, and locations where the pipe must find its way around obstructions.
- Rigid (Drawn) Copper: Rigid copper is strong and straight. The long length is typically used for water supply lines in walls and under floors. Connections are created using elbows, tees and other fittings.
Key Benefits of Copper Pipe & Tubing
Copper pipes have benefits that make them the favored choice for use in many industries.
Long Life and Corrosion Resistance
Copper resists rust and corrosion for a longer period of time. When installed correctly, copper plumbing can last longer than 50 years. They don't break down easily, so one will be spending less money on repairs and maintenance.
Excellent Heat Transfer
Copper is a highly effective thermal conductor. This makes it well-suited for heating and cooling systems, where it’s essential to move heat quickly. It enhances the energy efficiency of HVAC systems to save on the monthly energy bills.
Natural Antimicrobial Properties
Copper has antibacterial and antiviral properties, allowing it to kill bacteria and viruses on the surface. Water in copper pipes is at less risk of being contaminated. This is also why copper is commonly utilized in hospitals and medical gas systems.
Easy to Work With
It is a simple matter to cut, form, and join copper. Easily bendable soft copper can be bent by hand for flexible installations. Hard copper resists swelling under pressure. This flexibility makes copper perfect for nearly all plumbing and HVAC applications.
Common Applications of Copper Pipe & Tubing
Copper pipes are found in many types of construction work in the form of tubes, and are used in manufacturing and also in infrastructure such as heating and plumbing systems.
Home and Commercial Plumbing
Copper remains a popular material for piping hot and cold water in homes and businesses. It is used within both water and fire protection systems and general-purpose water-supply service.
Heating, Ventilation, and Cooling Systems (HVAC)
Refrigerant gases extend copper tubings in air conditioners and refrigeration systems. Because it can withstand high pressure and temperature shifts, copper is particularly well-suited for HVAC installations.
Medical and Industrial Gas Systems
Copper tubing carries medical gases like oxygen and nitrogen in hospitals. It is also employed in factories for the safe transport of various types of industrial gases. Its smooth interior surface resists sticking and won't contaminate lines or samples.
Special Uses
Copper tubing is also used in solar heating systems, water heaters, and the chemical industry. They can also handle rough use, which is a plus in harsh conditions.
How to Choose the Right Copper Pipe
There are a couple of important factors one needs to take into consideration when choosing the right copper pipe.
- Pressure and Temperature Needs: For systems operating at high pressure or temperature, a thicker pipe is required such as Type K.
- Local Building Codes: Always consult the appropriate authorities in response to the local building codes to ensure that the selected pipe size has been approved.
- Type of Fluid: Some liquids, such as acid water, need special attention not to damage the tubes.
- Cost and Lifespan: Copper prices are higher than those of other materials initially, but over time they are below average in terms of both maintenance and the system's life expectancy.
How Copper Pipes Are Installed
There are a few methods of joining copper pipe safely and effectively.
- Soldering and Brazing: This old-school technique uses heat to melt a filler metal and connect pipes. It makes for durable, leak-free connections.
- Compression Fittings: Fittings that rely on the compression of an elastomer to tie the pipes together. And they are fast and don’t require heat, so they’re good for repairs.
- Flare Fittings: Flare connections are commonly utilized for gas lines and refrigerant lines, which are high pressure applications.
- Press Fittings: Press fittings work by pressing the pipe and fitting together using a special pressing tool, instead of heating.
Conclusion
Plumbers and heating contractors still prefer copper pipe and tubing for use in plumbing, heating, cooling and natural gas work today. They provide an ideal balance of strength, safety and longevity. Although copper pipes are more expensive upfront, they are durable, require less maintenance, and are recyclable as well. Thus, they are a wise investment. When quality, safety and dependability are paramount, copper is the ideal solution for your project.