Copper Pipe

Copper tubing has many uses and is used in just about every industry.  It is most often seen in domestic water supplies and used for potable water.  There are two basic types of copper tubing, soft and rigid copper.  During the manufacturing process, copper tubing is drawn through a die that hardens the metal.  This makes the tubing rigid.  To make the tube flexible again, it is annealed which softens the tube.  The flexible/softer copper tubing comes in schedule K and L.

• Tags: Pipe Material

Copper Pipe Index

• Copper Pipe Advantages and Disadvantages
• Tubing - Copper, ASTM Types, Standards, Applications, Tempers and Lengths
• Type DWV
• Type K
• Type L
• Type M
• Type ACR (Air Conditioning & Refrigerant)
• Type OXY/MED, OXY/ARC, ARC/MED
• Copper Pipe Standards

Copper tubing connections are done using a flare, compression joint or soldered.  Copper tubing is color coded for identification.  Type DWV tubing is yellow, K is green and L is blue.

There are several different types of copper piping.  The Type specifies the dimensions and the material type.  For example, the difference between Type K, L & M copper tubing is the dimensions.  An additional difference between DWV and Type K (L & M) is the material type, ASTM B306 & B88, respectively. 

Copper Pipe Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages	Disadvantages
Copper is naturally corrosion resistant making copper pipes durable and suitable for long term use. Copper has high thermal conductivity, allowing for efficient heat transfer.  This property is advantageous in heating and cooling systems. Copper pipes have a long lifespan and are known for their reliability.  They are resistant to rust and corrosion, reducing the risk of leaks. Copper pipes are suitable for a variety of applications, including hot and cold water supply, heating systems, and refrigeration. Copper pipes are relatively lightweight and flexible, making them easy to install.  They can be bent and shaped to fit specific layouts. Copper pipes have a smooth interior surface, which minimizes friction and allows for good water flow, reducing the risk of clogs. Copper has biostatic properties, meaning it inhibits the growth of bacteria, algae, and fungi in water pipes. Copper is a highly recyclable material, contributing to environmental sustainability.	Copper pipes can be more expensive than some alternative materials, which may impact the overall cost of a plumbing or heating system. Due to the scrap value of copper, there is a risk of theft, particularly in unoccupied buildings or construction sites. While generally corrosion resistant, copper pipes can corrode under certain conditions, such as exposure to acidic water or soil. Copper pipes may release small amounts of copper into the water, affecting its taste.  This is more common in new installations and typically decreases over time. Copper pipes may be sensitive to high temperatures, and excessive heat can lead to softening or weakening of the material. In areas with aggressive or acidic water, copper pipes may not be the ideal choice, as they can corrode over time. Copper pipes can be challenging to repair or modify once installed.  Welding or soldering is typically required, which may not be as straightforward as using push-fit or compression fittings.

 

Tubing - Copper, ASTM Types, Standards, Applications, Tempers and Lengths

• Many other copper and copper alloy tubes and pipes available for specialized applications.
• Contact the Copper Development Association for information on these products.

Type DWV

• Color Code - Yellow
• Datasheet & Dimensional Information
• Standard - ASTM B306
• Common Applications - Drain, Waste, Vent, HVAC, Solar
• Commercially Available Lengths
  • Straight Length
    • 1/4 inch to 12 inch - 20' (drawn), N/A (annealed)

Type K

Copper pipe Type K is a type of copper plumbing pipe known for its durability and thickness.  It is one of the common types of copper pipes used in plumbing and other applications where high pressure and strength are important factors.  Copper pipe Type K is often used for heavy-duty applications where the pipe will be subjected to high pressure, such as water service lines, underground installations, and commercial plumbing systems.  It has the thickest wall among the common types of copper pipes and is marked with a green stripe to indicate its Type K classification.

When working with Type K copper pipe, it's important to follow industry standards, manufacturer recommendations, and local building codes for installation.  Proper installation techniques, including soldering, joint preparation, and support, ensure the longevity and reliability of the plumbing system.

• Color Code - Green
• Datasheet & Dimensional Information
• Standard - ASTM B88
• Application - Domestic Water Service and Distribution, Fire Protection, Solar, Fuel/Fuel Oil, HVAC, Snow Melting, Compressed Air, Natural Gas, Liquified Petroleum (LP) Gas, Vacuum
• Commercially Available Lengths
  • Straight Length
    • 1/4 inch to 8 inch - 20' (drawn), 20' (annealed)
    • 10 inch - 18' (drawn), 18' (annealed)
    • 12 inch - 12' (drawn), 12' (annealed)
  • Coils
    • 1/4 inch to 1 inch - N/A (drawn), 60' and 100' (annealed)
    • 1 1/4 inch and 1 1/2 inch - N/A (drawn), 60' (annealed)
    • 2 inch - N/A (drawn), 40' and 45' (annealed)

Type L

Copper pipe Type L is a type of copper plumbing pipe that is widely used for various plumbing and heating applications.  It is one of the common types of copper pipes available, each designed with specific characteristics and intended uses.  Copper pipe Type L is often used for both residential and commercial plumbing projects. It has a medium wall thickness, making it a versatile choice that balances durability and affordability. It is marked with a blue stripe to indicate its Type L classification.

Compared to Type M copper pipe, which has a thinner wall, Type L offers increased durability and is better suited for applications with higher water pressure.  However, it's worth noting that Type L is not as thick-walled or heavy-duty as Type K copper pipe, which is often used for more demanding applications like water service lines and underground installations.  When using copper pipe Type L, it's important to adhere to local building codes, manufacturer recommendations, and best practices for cutting, soldering, and installing copper pipes.  Proper installation techniques help ensure the longevity and reliability of the plumbing system.

• Color Code - Blue
• Datasheet & Dimensional Information
• Standard - ASTM B88
• Application - Domestic Water Service and Distribution, Fire Protection, Solar, Fuel/Fuel Oil, Natural Gas, Liquified Petroleum (LP) Gas, HVAC, Snow Melting, Compressed Air, Vacuum
• Commercially Available Lengths
  • Straight Length
    • 1/4 inch to 10 inch - 20' (drawn), 20' (annealed)
    • 12 inch - 18' (drawn), 18' (annealed)
  • Coils
    • 1/4 inch to 1 inch - N/A (drawn), 60' and 100' (annealed)
    • 1 1/4 inch and 1 1/2 inch - N/A (drawn), 60' (annealed)
    • 2 inch - N/A (drawn), 40' and 45' (annealed)

Type M

Copper pipe Type M is a type of copper plumbing pipe that is commonly used for residential and commercial plumbing applications.  It is one of several types of copper pipes, each designed for specific purposes and with varying thicknesses and durability levels.  Copper pipe Type M is often used for general plumbing purposes such as water distribution, both hot and cold.  It is typically available in diameters ranging from 1/4 inch to 8 inches and is marked with a red stripe to indicate its Type M classification.  This type of pipe has the thinnest wall thickness among the common types of copper pipes, which makes it more affordable but also less durable than other types.

Due to its thinner wall, Type M copper pipe is more susceptible to damage from external forces and pressure fluctuations.  Therefore, it's commonly used in areas with low to moderate water pressure and where the risk of physical damage is minimal.  It's also commonly used for residential water supply lines, refrigerator water lines, and other non-critical plumbing applications.

• Color Code - Red
• Datasheet & Dimensional Information
• Standard - ASTM B88
• Application - Domestic Water Service and Distribution, Fire Protection, Solar, Fuel/Fuel Oil, HVAC, Snow Melting, Vacuum
• Commercially Available Lengths
  • Straight Length
    • 1/4 inch to 12 inch - 20' (drawn), N/A (annealed)

Type ACR (Air Conditioning & Refrigerant)

Copper pipe Type ACR is a specific type of copper tubing that is designed and manufactured for use in air conditioning and refrigeration systems.  Type ACR copper pipe is distinct from the types commonly used for plumbing, such as Type M, Type L, and Type K.  Type ACR copper pipe is typically used to transport refrigerants and coolants in air conditioning and refrigeration systems, including residential, commercial, and industrial applications.  These systems require pipes that are capable of withstanding the temperature fluctuations and pressures associated with cooling and refrigeration processes.

When using Type ACR copper pipe for air conditioning and refrigeration applications, it's important to follow manufacturer recommendations, industry standards, and best practices for installation.  Proper installation techniques, including brazing or soldering joints, can ensure the integrity of the refrigerant pathways and prevent leaks in the system

• Color Code - Blue
• Standard - ASTM B280
• Application - Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, Natural Gas, Liquified Petroleum (LP) Gas, Compressed Air
• Commercially Available Lengths
  • Straight Length
    • 3/8 inch to 4 1/8 inch - 20' (drawn), N/A (annealed)
  • Coils
    • 1/8 inch to 1 1/8 inch - N/A (drawn), 50' (annealed)

Type OXY/MED, OXY/ARC, ARC/MED

• Color Code - (K) Green, (L) Blue
• Standard - ASTM B819
• Application - Medical Gas, Compressed Medical Air, Vacuum
• Commercially Available Lengths
  • Straight Length
    • 1/4 inch to 8 inch - 20' (drawn), N/A (annealed)

Copper Pipe Standards

• ASTM Standards
  • ASTM A254 / A254M - Standard Specification for Copper-Brazed Steel Tubing
  • ASTM B42 - Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Pipe, Standard Sizes
  • ASTM B43 - Standard Specification for Seamless Red Brass Pipe, Standard Sizes
  • ASTM B75 / B75M - Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Tube
  • ASTM B88 - Specification for Seamless Copper Water Tube
  • ASTM B280 - Specification for Seamless Copper Tube for Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Field Service
  • ASTM B302 - Standard Specification for Threadless Copper Pipe, Standard Sizes
  • ASTM B306 - Specification for Copper Drainage Tube (DWV)
  • ASTM B447 - Standard Specification for Welded Copper Tube
  • ASTM B466 / B466M - Standard Specification for Seamless Copper-Nickel Pipe and Tube
  • ASTM B467 - Standard Specification for Welded Copper-Nickel Pipe
  • ASTM B608 - Standard Specification for Welded Copper-Alloy Pipe
  • ASTM B698 - Standard Classification for Seamless Copper and Copper Alloy Plumbing Pipe and Tube
  • ASTM B706 - Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Alloy (UNS No. C69100) Pipe and Tube
  • ASTM B743 - Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Tube in Coils
  • ASTM B819 - Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Tube for Medical Gas Systems
  • ASTM B828 - Standard Practice for Making Capillary Joints by Soldering of Copper and Copper Alloy Tube and Fittings
  • ASTM B837 - Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Tube for Natural Gas and Liquefied Petroleum (LP) Gas Fuel Distribution Systems
  • ASTM B903 - Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Heat Exchanger Tubes With Internal Enhancement