Plumbing systems are designed to ensure that clean water flows in and waste flows out. The materials involved in these determine how well and safely they work over time. The other materials present there are utilized in copper plumbing tubes and are perfect for their durability, safety and adaptability.
In this blog, we’ll get to learn about the composition, manufacturing process, and benefits of copper plumbing tubes and why they remain a top choice in the plumbing industry today.
What is Copper Plumbing Tube?
A copper plumbing tube is a cylindrical metal pipe used generally to convey water, gas, or refrigerant in residential, commercial and industrial plumbing systems. Being strong and resistant to corrosion, copper tubing is found in several types like Type K, L, M, and DWV each meets specific pressure ratings and application purposes. Unlike copper pipes, which are measured by inside diameter, copper tubes are measured in terms of their outside diameter and are thus more accurate for specific fittings and installations.
What is copper plumbing tube made of?
Copper plumbing tubes consist mainly of 99.9% pure copper, a level of purity that plays an important role in ensuring corrosion resistance and protection for drinking water safety. Copper plumbing tubes contain such high purity that prevents the leaching of dangerous elements into the water supply. Trace elements of phosphorus or iron may be added in minimal amounts, which strengthens the tube and its deoxidation resistance. The chemical content of copper tubing is also governed by standards established by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), and ASTM B88 is the specific standard that governs its application in plumbing.
How is Copper Tubing Made?
- Mining & Refining: Copper ore is mined from the earth, then refined and smelted to remove impurities. This produces pure copper suitable for manufacturing.
- Extrusion: Billets are heated and forced through specially shaped dies, forming long, hollow tubes in the desired profile.
- Drawing: Tubes are stretched through smaller dies in a process called drawing, which adjusts their diameter and wall thickness precisely.
- Annealing: Some tubes are heat-treated in an annealing furnace, making them softer and more flexible ideal for coiled copper tubing.
Advantages of Using Copper Tubes:
- Corrosion Resistance: Copper is resistant to rust and oxidation, meaning that it does not deteriorate over time easily.
- Durability: Copper pipes will last 50 to 70 years or even longer if they are used well.
- Antimicrobial Properties: Copper naturally make the formation of bacteria by making water cleaner and safer.
- Thermal Conductivity: Both hot and cold water are managed well by it, making it ideal for every kind of plumbing.
- Recyclability: It is 100% recyclable, hence, an environment friendly choice.
- Fire Resistance: Copper does not burn or emit noxious gases in a fire, further increasing its safety.
Copper tubes are safe, long-lasting, dependable and friendly to the environment, hence an outright favorite with numerous builders and residents.
Common Uses of Copper Plumbing Tubes:
- Hot and Cold Potable Water Supply: Copper tubing is widely used for supplying clean drinking water due to its corrosion resistance and long lifespan. It maintains water purity and withstands high pressure and temperature variations.
- HVAC Systems (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning): In HVAC systems, copper tubes efficiently transfer heat in both cooling and heating processes. Their excellent thermal conductivity and ease of fabrication make them ideal for coils and piping.
- Refrigeration Systems: Copper tubes are crucial in refrigeration for transporting refrigerants. Their durability and resistance to internal pressure ensure reliable performance in residential and commercial units.
- Medical Gas Systems in Hospitals: Hospitals rely on copper tubing to deliver oxygen, nitrous oxide and other medical gases safely. Copper’s antimicrobial properties add a layer of safety in sterile environments.
- Natural Gas and Propane Distribution: For natural gas and propane, copper pipes provide a safe, leak-resistant solution. They’re commonly used in both residential and light commercial gas line installations.
- Solar Water Heating Systems: Copper tubing is used in solar thermal systems to transfer heat from solar collectors to storage tanks. Its high thermal conductivity maximizes energy efficiency.
Copper vs. Other Plumbing Materials:
Copper competes with several other plumbing materials, including PEX, PVC, and galvanized steel.
Here’s how it stacks up:
- PEX: Cost-effective and flexible, ideal for DIY, but less durable and vulnerable to UV and chemical damage.
- PVC: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, but unsuitable for hot water lines or outdoor exposure.
- Galvanized Steel: Durable and strong, yet prone to rust, scaling, and reduced water flow over time.
- Copper: Preferred for its durability, reliability, and safety, especially where water quality and long-term performance matter.
Copper stands out for its longevity, reliability, and safety especially in systems where water quality and performance are non-negotiable.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Copper Tube
Choose a copper tube, the right type makes all the difference:
Type K: Thick walls for underground water service.
Type L: Versatile and reliable great for interior residential plumbing.
Type M: Cost-effective for low-pressure applications.
DWV: Only for non-pressurized drain, waste, and vent systems.
Soft vs. Hard Copper:
Soft Copper is annealed for flexibility, making it easy to bend and perfect for tight or irregular spaces.
Hard Copper is rigid and durable, best suited for long, straight runs where minimal bending is needed.
Always consider certifications (NSF, ASTM) and purchase from a reputable supplier to ensure quality and compliance with building codes.
Conclusion:
Copper tubes are made from high-purity copper, minimal trace elements added for increased performance. Their strength, corrosion resistance, safety, and environmental friendliness. Whether you are a homeowner who is going to be renovating or a contractor ordering materials, knowing what copper tubes are constructed of and why they are important can assist you in making more durable.
