Copper Tube & Fittings

Plumbing Heating Natural Gas Air Conditioning Refrigeration Medical Gas Fire Protection Snow Melting
Publication No. 28E

Introduction
With its enviable performance record, copper tube is the number one choice for plumbing and mechanical systems in all types of Canadian buildings: single-family houses, high-rise multi-unit condominiums and apartments, office buildings, retail stores, and industrial facilities. Light, strong, corrosion-resistant copper tube has a proven history of reliable service in installations throughout Canada, as well as many other countries. These attributes have endeared copper tube to tradespersons in the plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration industries for decades.

Contents
Topic Page Introduction ................................................................. 2 Codes & Regulations ................................................... 2 Types of Tube Temper .................................................................. 3 Identification ......................................................... 3 Metric Sizes .......................................................... 3 Fittings Pressure ................................................................. 4 Drainage ................................................................ 4 Other ..................................................................... 4
Water supply and drainage systems for back-to-back hospital rooms were prefabricated as a single unit and transported to the site for installation.

Pressure Ratings & Burst Strength ............................... 5 Expansion ..................................................................... 5 Joining Soldering ......................................................... 6 - 8 Brazing ........................................................... 8 - 10 Other Methods ............................................. 10 - 11 Applications Plumbing ...................................................... 11 - 12 Heating ......................................................... 12 - 13 Refrigeration & Air Conditioning ....................... 13 Medical Gas Systems .......................................... 13 Fire Sprinklers ............................................. 13 - 14 Heat Pumps ......................................................... 14 Solar Heating ...................................................... 14 Corrosion Resistance .......................................... 14 - 15 Technical Data & Tables .................................. 15 - 19 Why Select Copper? ................................................... 20 CCBDA Services ........................................................ 20 This publication has been prepared for the use of journeymen and apprentice plumbers, pipefitters, refrigeration fitters, sprinkler fitters, plumbing and heating contractors, engineers, and others involved in the design or installation of plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, refrigeration, fire sprinkler, and other related systems. Recognizing that each system must be designed and installed to meet particular circumstances, the CCBDA assumes no responsibility or liability of any kind in connection with this publication or its use by any person or organization and makes no representations or warranties of any kind hereby.

Adding to its versatility is the fact that copper tube is available in drawn (hard) and annealed (soft) tempers, as well as a wide assortment of lengths, diameters, and wall thicknesses to meet the needs of a broad spectrum of conditions. Today copper tube is finding increased use in newer applications such as natural gas systems in single-family houses and multi-unit buildings, and for fire sprinkler systems in residential construction as well as office buildings, hotels, and similar structures. Acceptance of copper tube and fittings by the mechanical trades for new applications is strong testimony to its reputation as a high-quality and cost-effective building product.

Codes & Regulations

This publication contains general information on the selection of different Types of copper tube, fittings, and joining methods for various building applications. Such applications are regulated by plumbing and building codes, and related regulations. Reference should be made to these codes and regulations to confirm what materials and processes are permitted in your locality. 2

Types of Tube
Copper plumbing tube is manufactured from Copper No. C12200 (99.9% Copper), in accordance with the requirements of ASTM Standard B 88. Most provincial regulatory authorities in Canada now require that copper tube for use in plumbing systems be Third-Party Certified for compliance with ASTM B 88. Types DWV, ACR, Medical Gas, and Type G/GAS tube meet the requirements of ASTM B 306, ASTM B 280, ASTM B 819 and ASTM B 837, respectively. Various Types are certified in addition to plumbing tube, and the latest list of ThirdParty Certified products is available on request. Types K, L, M, DWV, and Medical Gas tube have actual outside diameters which are 1/8-inch (0.125 in.) larger than the nominal (standard) sizes which the tube is commonly called. For example, a 1/2-inch Type M tube has an actual outside diameter of 5/8-inch. Type K tube has thicker walls than Type L tube, and Type L walls are thicker than Type M for any given size (diameter). Table 1 (page 15) provides the dimensions and weights for Types K, L, M, and DWV tube. ACR tube for air-conditioning and refrigeration service and Type G/GAS tube for natural gas and propane systems are designated by their actual outside diameter. A 1/2-inch Type G/GAS tube, for example, has an actual outside diameter of 1/2-inch. Table 2 (page 16) covers the dimensions and weights for Type ACR tube. Table 3 (page 16) provides the information for Type G/GAS tube.

The compact dimensions and flexibility of copper tube are compared here with threaded steel pipe, such as would be used in a natural gas system.

Temper Temper denotes the hardness and strength of tube. Straight lengths are primarily drawn temper, or as more commonly known, hard tube. Annealed temper tube is referred to as soft tube. It is usually in coiled form, but certain sizes are also available in straight lengths. Identification Types K, L, M, DWV, ACR, Medical Gas, and Type G/GAS tubes are permanently incised with the tube Type, the name or trademark of the manufacturer, and the mark of the independent certification agency when Third-Party Certified. In addition, straight lengths are also identified along their length by a continuous colour code. The colour coding includes the Type of tube, name or trademark of the manufacturer, country of origin, and the mark of the certification agency when Third-Party Certified. The following colours are used for colour coding: Type K...............Green Type L............... Blue Type M.............. Red Type DWV*...... Yellow Type ACR..........Blue Medical Gas...... Green (K) Medical Gas...... Blue (L) Type G/GAS*....Yellow

* DWV is 1-1/4-in. and larger. Type G/GAS tube is up to 1-1/8-in. size.

Metric Sizes
At the time this manual was published, copper plumbing tube and fittings are known by their nominal inch sizes only, as covered in the standards issued by ASTM, ASME, and other organizations. No metric sizes have been established for copper tube and fittings for use in North America. To avoid confusion, do not soft convert the inch nominal sizes to metric values. Contact the CCBDA at any time for the latest information on metric conversion.

Compact copper water and drainage lines for back-to-back sinks fit neatly into steel studs.

Pressure Fittings
Capillary fittings for copper systems under pressure, such as hot and cold water lines, may be manufactured by a wrought process or casting. They are covered by ASME Standard B16.22, Wrought Copper and Copper Alloy Solder Joint Pressure Fittings, and B16.18, Cast Copper Alloy Solder Joint Pressure Fittings. Each fitting is permanently marked with the manufacturers name or trademark, except for small sizes where marking may not be practical.

Drainage Fittings
Drainage fittings are used in soil-and-waste drainage and venting applications. Such systems generally are gravity installations, and they are not subject to pressure. Wrought drainage fittings are covered by ASME Standard B16.29, Wrought Copper and Copper Alloy Solder Joint Drainage Fittings DWV, while those made by casting are covered by ASME Standard B16.23, Cast Copper Alloy Solder Joint Drainage Fittings DWV. Each fitting is permanently marked with the manufacturers name or trademark and DWV, to indicate Drain-Waste-Vent.

Other Fittings
A variety of other types of fittings are commercially available for joining copper tube. They include flare fittings, compression fittings, mechanical couplings, and pipe flanges. Additional information is provided in the section on Other Joining Methods (pages 10 & 11).
Figure 1: Types of Expansion Loops and Offsets

Copper excels for hot water systems in high demand multi-unit buildings.

Wrought and cast fittings can be either soldered or brazed. However brazing of cast fittings requires special care to avoid cracking, and short-cup cast fittings for brazing are available to reduce this risk. Wrought and cast pressure fittings have the same pressure-temperature ratings as straight lengths of annealed Type L tube. Ratings for annealed tube are used because hard temper tube is annealed during the brazing process. Annealing does not occur with the lower-temperature soldering process, but all designs must be based on the lower (annealed) values.
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Pressure Ratings & Burst Strength

The allowable internal pressure for copper tube is based on the formula used in the ASME Code for Pressure Piping (ASME B31): P = where: P = allowable pressure, psi S = maximum allowable stress in tension, psi tmin = wall thickness (mininum), in. Dmax = outside diameter, in. C = a constant Because of coppers superior corrosion resistance, the B31 Code permits C to equal O, and the formula becomes: P = 2Stmin Dmax - 0.8 tmin 2S(tmin- C) Dmax - 0.8(tmin- C) tube can be used for soldered systems, and systems using properly designed mechanical joints. Table 10 (page 19) covers the rated internal working pressures for Type DWV tube. Tables 7 and 8 (page 18) shows the rated internal working pressures for ACR tube. When brazing or welding is used to join tubes, the annealed ratings must be used, since the heating involved in these processes will anneal the hard drawn tube. Therefore, annealed ratings are shown in Tables 6 (page 17) and 10 (page 19) for Type M and Type DWV tube, respectively, although they are not available in the annealed temper. When designing a system, joint ratings must also be considered, because the lower of the two ratings (tube or joint) will govern the installation. Most systems are installed with solder or brazed joints. Table 11 (page 19), covers the rated internal working pressures for such joints; the ratings are for Types K, L, and M tube with standard solder joint pressure fittings. In soldered systems, the rated strength of the joint often governs the design. When brazing use the ratings for annealed tube in Tables 6, 7, and 10. Joint ratings at saturated steam temperatures are shown in Table 11. The actual bursting pressures for copper tube are many times the rated working pressures. Table 9 (page 18) shows actual burst pressures for Types K, L, and M tube. They should be compared with the rated working pressures in Table 6, and it can be seen that the rated values are very conservative. This means that pressurized systems will operate successfully over long time periods, and they are able to withstand high pressure surges that may occur in service.

The value of S in the formula is the allowable design strength for continuous long-term service of the tube material. The allowable stress value depends on the service temperature and the temper of the tube. It is a small fraction of coppers ultimate tensile strength, or of the burst strength of copper tube. Table 6 (page 17) shows the rated internal working pressures for both annealed and drawn Types K, L, and M tube, for service temperatures up to 400oF (205oC). The ratings for drawn

Expansion
Approximate linear expansion of 100 feet of tube, inches

All piping materials expand and contract with temperature changes, including copper. Figure 2 compares the expansion rates of copper tube with various kinds of plastic pipe, using concrete as the benchmark. It is clear that the expansion and contraction of copper is significantly less than the plastic products. The average coefficient of expansion of copper is 0.0000094 inch per inch per degree F, between 70oF and 212oF. Installation techniques must allow for expansion and contraction changes, to prevent stresses which may buckle or bend the tube or affect joints. Figure 1 illustrates the types of expansion loops and offsets that can be used. Table 5 (page 16) provides information for estimating the sizes of loops and offsets.

18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Polybutylene Figure 2: Linear Expansion PE-AL-PE & PEX-AL-PEX

ABS

CPVC PVC (DWV)

Copper Concrete 50 100 150 Temperature change, F 200

Soldering Copper Tube

Soldering is a process that joins base metals using a filler metal (solder) which melts at a lower temperature than the base metals. Most soldering is done with solders that melt at temperatures ranging from approximately 175 oC (350oF) to 290oC (550oF). the requirements and test methods for liquid and paste fluxes for soldering copper-base materials. Measuring Accurately measure the length of each piece of tube needed. (Figure 3) If the tube is too short, it will not reach all the way into the cup of the fitting and a good, strong joint cannot be made. If the tube is too long, strain may be introduced into the system. Cutting Cut the tube to the measured length. It can be cut with a disctype tube cutter (Figure 4), a hacksaw, an abrasive wheel, or with a stationary or portable bandsaw. Care must be taken that the tube is not deformed while being cut. Regardless of the method used, the cut must be square in order that the tube will seat properly in the fitting cup.

Figure 3

Figure 4

In order to consistently make satisfactory joints, the sequence of operations presented in ASTM Standard Practice B 828, Making Capillary Joints by Soldering of Copper and Copper Alloy Tube & Fittings, should be followed. It should also be noted that Canadian codes prohibit the use of solders containing more than 0.2% lead in potable water systems. There is a wide variety of solders available which can be used in place of the once standard 50% tin-50% lead solder, commonly called 50-50. They melt at slightly higher temperatures and may exhibit different flow characteristics.

Figure 7

Figure 8

Reaming All cut tube-ends must be reamed to the full inside diameter of the tube, to remove the small burr created during cutting. If this rough inside edge is not removed by reaming, erosion corrosion may occur due to localized turbulence and high flow velocity near the joint. A properly reamed tube-end provides a smooth surface for optimum flow. Also remove any burrs on the outside of the tube-ends, to ensure proper insertion of the tube into the cup of the fitting. Tools which may be used to ream tube-ends include the reaming blade on a tube cutter, half-round or round files, a pocket knife, or a special deburring tool. (Figure 5)
Figure 5 Figure 6

A suitable flux must be used when making a solder joint. Flux acts as a cleaning and wetting agent, and when properly applied, permits uniform spreading of the molten solder over the surfaces to be joined. Flux is a chemically active substance, and only enough should be applied to remove and exclude oxides from the joint area during heating and to ensure that the melted solder will wet the surfaces to be joined. Do not overflux! ASTM Standard B 813, Liquid and Paste Fluxes for Soldering Applications of Copper and Copper Alloy Tube, covers
6

With soft temper tube, care must be taken not to deform the tube-end by applying too much pressure. If soft temper tube is deformed, it can be brought back to roundness with a sizing tool, which consists of a plug and sizing ring. Cleaning Removal of all oxides and surface soil from the tube-ends and fitting cups is essential for the proper flow of solder into the joint. Failure to remove such oxides can interfere with capillary action and may reduce the strength of the joint and cause failure.

Soldering Copper Tube

Lightly abrade (clean) tube-ends using sand cloth (Figure 6) or nylon abrasive pads for a distance slightly more than the depth of the fitting cups. Clean fitting cups by using abrasive cloth, abrasive pads, or a properly sized fitting brush. The capillary space between the tube and fitting is most effective from 0.002 to 0.005 in. (0.05 to 0.13 mm), but may be up to 0.010 in. (0.25 mm). Solder fills this gap by capillary action. tube is seated against the base of the fitting cup. (Figure 9) A slight twisting motion ensures even coverage of the flux. Remove excess flux from the exterior of the joint with a cotton rag. (Figure 10) If possible, support the tube and fitting assembly to ensure a uniform capillary space around the circumference of the joint. Uniformity of the space will ensure good capillary flow of the molten solder. Excessive joint clearance can result in the solder cracking under conditions of stress or vibration. The joint is now ready for soldering. Joints prepared and ready for soldering must be completed the same day and should not be left unfinished overnight. Valves When joining copper tube to valves with solder cups, follow the manufacturers instructions. The valve should be in the full-open position before applying heat, and the heat should be applied primarily to the tube. Disassembly of the valve may be required if there is a chance that non-metal components could be damaged.
Figure 9 Figure 10

This spacing is critical for the solder to flow into the gap and form a strong joint. A certain amount of looseness of fit can be tolerated, but too loose a fit can cause difficulties, particularly with large size fittings. It may also allow too much solder to be fed into the joint, resulting in a blob forming inside the fitting. Chemical cleaning may be used if the tube-ends and fittings are thoroughly rinsed after cleaning according to the procedure furnished by the cleaner manufacturer. Do not touch the cleaned surface with bare hands or oily gloves. Skin oils, lubricating oils and grease impair the soldering operation. Applying Flux Use a flux that will dissolve and remove traces of oxide from the cleaned surfaces, protect the cleaned surfaces from reoxidation during heating, and promote wetting of the surfaces by the solder, as recommended in the general requirements of ASTM B 813. Using a brush, apply a thin, even coating of flux to both the tube and fittings as soon as possible after cleaning. (Figures 7 and 8) WARNING: Do not apply flux with fingers. Chemicals in the flux can be harmful if carried to the eyes, mouth, or open cuts. Use care in applying flux. Careless workmanship can cause problems long after the system has been installed. If excessive amounts of flux are used, the flux residue may cause corrosion. In extreme cases, such flux corrosion can perforate the tube and/or fitting. Assembly and Support Insert the tube-end into the fitting cup, making sure that the

Figure 11

Figure 12

WARNING: When dealing with an open flame, high temperatures and flammable gases, safety precautions must be observed. Heating Heat is usually applied with an air-fuel torch. Such torches use acetylene or propane gas. Electric resistance soldering tools can also be used. They employ heating electrodes and should be considered when an open flame is a concern. Begin heating with the flame perpendicular to the tube. (Figure 11) The copper tube conducts the initial heat into the fitting cup for even distribution of heat in the joint. The extent of preheating depends upon the size of the joint, and experience will indicate the amount of time needed. Then move the flame onto the fitting cup. (Figure 12) Alternate the flame from the fitting cup back onto the tube a distance equal to the depth of the fitting cup. With the torch at the base of the fitting cup, touch the solder to the joint. If the solder
7

Soldering Copper Tube

does not melt, remove it and continue heating. CAUTION: Do not overheat the joint or direct the flame into the face of the fitting cup. Overheating could burn the flux, which will destroy its effectiveness, and the solder will not flow into the joint properly. When the solder melts when touched to the joint, apply heat to the base of the fitting cup, to aid capillary action in drawing the molten solder into the joint. Applying Solder Solder joints depend on capillary action to draw free-flowing, molten solder into the narrow space between the fitting and the tube. Capillary action takes place regardless of whether the solder flow is up, down or horizontal. For horizontal joints, start applying the solder metal slightly off-centre at the bottom of the joint. (Figure 13) Proceed across the bottom of the fitting and up to the top-centre position. Return to the starting point, overlap it, and then move up the incompleted side to the top, again overlapping the solder. For joints in the vertical position, use a similar sequence of overlapping passes, starting wherever it is convenient. Cooling and Cleaning Allow the completed joint to cool naturally. Shock cooling with water may stress the joint. When cool, clean off any remaining flux residue with a wet rag. (Figure 14) Whenever possible, based on end use, completed systems should be flushed to remove excess flux and debris.

Brazing Copper Tube

Brazing is another joining process for connecting copper tube and fittings. However, it involves filler metals that melt at temperatures ranging from 590oC (1,100oF) to 815oC (1,500oF), which are much higher than the solders covered in the previous section. The temperature at which a filler metal starts to melt on heating is the solidus temperature; the liquidus temperature is a higher temperature at which the filler metal is completely melted. The liquidus temperature is the minimum temperature at which brazing will take place.

Figure 15

Figure 16

Brazing filler metals for joining copper tube are divided into two classes: BCuP alloys which contain phosphorus, and the BAg alloys which have a high silver content. Brazing filler metals are sometimes referred to as silver solders or hard solders, but these confusing terms should be avoided. The fluxes used for brazing are different in composition from soldering fluxes, and they cannot be used interchangeably. Brazing fluxes are water based, while most soldering fluxes are petrolatum based. Like soldering fluxes, brazing fluxes dissolve and remove residual oxides from the metal surface, protect the metal from reoxidation during heating, and promote wetting of the surfaces to be joined. They also provide an indication of the metal temperature during heating. (Figure 17) Fluxes suitable for brazing copper and copper alloy tube should meet AWS Classification FB3-A or FB3-C, as listed in the American Welding Societys Brazing Handbook. It should be noted that a brazing flux may not always be required. When using copper tube, wrought copper fittings and BCuP filler metal, fluxing is optional due to the self-fluxing action of the phosphorus. Preparation Like soldering, the preparations for making a brazed joint consist of measuring, cutting, reaming and cleaning. (Figures 3 to 6)

Figure 13

Figure 14

Testing Test all completed assemblies for joint integrity. Follow the test procedure required by codes applicable to the service application. Estimating The amount of solder consumed when adequately filling the capillary space between the tube and the fitting may be estimated from Table 12 (page 19). The flux needed is about 2 ounces per pound of solder.
8

Brazing Copper Tube

Fluxing: Apply the brazing flux to both the tube end (Figure 16) and the inside of the fitting. (Figure 18) Heating and Brazing Apply heat, preferably with an oxy-fuel flame; air-fuel is sometimes used on smaller sizes. A neutral flame should be used. Heat the tube first, beginning about one inch from the edge of the fitting and sweep the flame around the tube in short strokes at right angles to the axis of the tube. (Figure 19) It is very important that the flame be in motion continuously, and it should not remain on any one point long enough to damage the tube. The flux may be used as a guide as to how long to heat the tube; continue heating it until the flux becomes quiet and transparent like clear water. Then switch the flame to the fitting at the base of the cup. (Figure 20) Heat uniformly, sweeping the flame from the fitting to the tube until the flux on the fitting becomes quiet. Avoid excessive heating of cast fittings.
Figure 17: Temperatures for Brazing and Soldering. 1095C / 2000F Special Brazing Fluxes May Protect to Here

Figure 18

Figure 19

When the flux appears liquid and transparent on both the tube and fitting, start sweeping the flame back and forth along the axis of the joint to maintain heat on the parts to be joined, especially toward the base of the cup of the fitting. The flame must be kept moving to avoid melting the tube or fitting. Apply the brazing filler metal at a point where the tube enters the socket of the fitting. (Figure 21) When the proper temperature is reached, the filler metal will flow readily into the space between the tube and fitting socket, drawn in by capillary action. Keep the flame away from the filler metal itself as it is fed into the joint. The temperature of the tube and fitting at the joint should be high enough to melt the filler metal. Maintain the heat by moving the flame back and forth between the tube and fitting as the filler metal is drawn into the joint. When the joint is properly made, a continuous fillet of filler metal will be visible completely around the joint. Stop feeding as soon as you see the fillet. For 1-in. tube and larger it may be difficult to bring the entire joint up to heat at once. It frequently will be found desirable to use a multiple-orifice torch tip to maintain a proper temperature over large areas. A mild preheating of the whole fitting is recommended for larger sizes. Heating then can proceed as outlined in the above steps. When brazing horizontal joints, it is preferable to first apply the filler metal at the bottom, then the two sides, and finally the top, making sure the operations overlap. On vertical joints it is immaterial where the start is made. If the opening of the socket is pointing down, care should be taken to avoid overheating the tube, since this may cause the brazing filler metal to run down the outside of the tube. If this happens, take the heat away and allow the filler metal to set. Then reheat the cup of the fitting to draw up the filler metal. Cooling and Cleaning: After the brazed joint has cooled, the flux residue should be removed with a clean cloth, brush or swab, using warm water.
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815C / 1500F

Standard Brazing Fluxes Protect to Here Brazing Temperatures (varies for different filler metals)

Flux Clear and Quiet 540C / 1000F Flux Begins to Melt Flux Bubbles 260C / 500F Melting Range of Solders Water Boils Out of Flux Room Temperature

Brazing Copper Tube

Other Joining Methods

In addition to gas-fueled torches for soldering and brazing, electric resistance hand tools may be used. They consist of tonglike heating electrodes. With the power on, the tongs are clamped around the fitting and held in place until the filler metal melts when touched to the capillary gap between the tube and fitting. Joint preparation is the same as for the gas torch method. Lightweight electric resistance tools may be preferred in new and retrofit installations where an open flame would be a concern.

Figure 20

Figure 21

Remove all flux residue to avoid the risk of the hardened flux temporarily retaining pressure and masking an imperfectly brazed joint. Wrought fittings may be cooled more readily than cast fittings, but all fittings should be allowed to air cool before wetting. Troubleshooting If the filler metal fails to flow or has a tendency to ball up, it indicates oxidation on the metal surfaces or insufficient heat on the parts to be joined. If the tube or fitting start to oxidize during heating there is too little flux. If the filler metal does not enter the joint and tends to flow over the outside of either member of the joint, it indicates that one member is overheated or the other is underheated. Testing Test all completed assemblies for joint integrity. Follow the test procedure required by codes applicable to the service application. Estimating A general guide to estimating how much brazing filler metal will be consumed is provided in Table 12 (page 19).

Another technology uses a tee-pulling tool to drill into a section of tube and pull out a collar for a tee connection. A branch line is then brazed into the raised collar; soldering cannot be used. This method is popular for fabricating manifolds and in copper fire sprinkler installations, since it reduces the number of tee fittings used and thereby the number of brazed joints.

In natural gas systems, copper can be added to existing steel pipe systems using a flared fitting.

Grooved-end pipe and fittings have been used for many years to join iron and steel pipe in a variety of systems. This method of mechanical joining is now available for copper tube in sizes from 2 to 6 inches. It uses a clamping ring with a gasket to hold together the butt ends of a tube-to-tube or tube-to-fitting joint. A roll-formed groove near the end of the tube or fitting permits the clamp to firmly grasp the two components of a joint. Pregrooved couplings, elbows, tees and flanges are available from the manufacturers. Flared joints are commonly used to join soft temper copper tube. The joint consists of three components: the flare fitting, the flared end of the copper tube, and the threaded flare nut which holds the joint together. This type of joint is commonly used for natural gas or propane distribution systems. Flare fittings are also used for underground services, but in recent years compression fittings have become most popular for this purpose.

Brazing a 5-inch Type K copper vacuum line in a hospital. 10

Epoxy bonded joints are a relatively recent development. A

Other Joining Methods

Soldered fittings and brazed T-Drill joints can often be combined for the most economical installation.

Applications
Copper tube and fittings are suitable for use in a diverse range of applications in building construction, which is testimony to their ability to provide long trouble-free service under a multitude of service conditions. Coppers reputation for excellence is based on decades of actual service experience in these applications. No accelerated tests which may or may not turn out to be accurate are involved. And the bottom-line is copper systems are cost-effective. When material cost, installation cost, and maintenance expenses over the life of a system are considered, copper becomes the solid choice for top performance at reasonable cost.

two part, fast-curing, epoxy-based adhesive is used to join copper tube and capillary fittings for water distribution systems. It may also be used in copper fire sprinkler systems (excluding dry systems), or installations where an open flame may not be appropriate. Bending Properly bent copper tube will not collapse on the outside of the bend and will not buckle on the inside of the bend. Mechanical tests have shown that the bursting strength of the bend portion is normally greater than it was before the tube was bent. The increase in bursting pressure is the result of an increase in the tensile strength and yield strength of the tube where it has been cold worked during bending.

Plumbing Underground Water Services: From the water main to the house or building, either Type K or L soft temper tube is used. They are available in long coils of various lengths in nominal sizes up to 2 in. With coils intermediate joints can be eliminated or minimized. Soft tube can also be bent around any obstructions or unevenness in the trench, and it adjusts readily to ground settlement. Compression fittings have become the most popular choice for underground copper water services in recent years, because of their high strength and ease of installation.

Long coils of soft temper tube allow underground water services to be installed without intermediate joints.

The proper tools should be used for bending of tube.

Simple hand tools using mandrels, dies, forms and fillers, or even power-operated bending machines are suitable for bending copper tube. The proper size bender for each tube size should be used. Also a suitable bend radius, as shown in Table 4 (page 16) will decrease the chances of making an improper bend. It should be noted that the National Plumbing Code of Canada does not permit Types M and DWV tube to be bent for use in plumbing systems, and most provincial codes have similar restrictions on bending. Types M and DWV tube are relatively thin-wall, hard-temper products.

Hot and Cold Water Lines: Systems above ground inside houses and buildings are the biggest single application for copper tube and fittings. Copper installations extend from houses and vacation properties to office towers and multi-storey apartments, condominiums, and hotels. Hard temper Types L and M tube are commonly used, depending on service conditions; hard Type K may be needed in some cases. Canadian codes, except for British Columbia, allow Type M tube as the minimum requirement, and it is the most widely used. In B.C., Type L is required, because of water conditions. Special care should be taken with hot water recirculation systems, as covered on pages 14 and 15. Renovation and Remodeling: When remodeling, situations may be encountered in which soft temper tube, normally Type L,
11

Applications
can be used to advantage, since its flexibility permits it to be worked inside partition walls with a minimum of difficulty. Drainage, Waste & Vent Systems: Type DWV tube with solder fittings is available in hard temper only. It is used above ground in multi-unit and high-rise buildings for drainage, waste and vent lines, and it should be considered particularly when noncombustible construction requirements must be met. Rainwater Leaders: Type DWV tube may also be used for rainwater leaders inside of buildings.

Installation of a typical baseboard convector using -inch Type L tube.

In Canada, Type G/GAS tube is also electrostatic spray painted yellow, or jacketted with yellow plastic, for easy identification. CCBDA Publication No. 14, available on request, provides detailed information on the design and installation of copper natural gas and propane systems. Propane: The use of copper tube and flare fittings for propane installations goes back for several decades. It is expected that the popularity of Type G/GAS tube for propane systems will also grow over the next few years. Part of the early Canadian experience with copper tube for natural gas systems involved existing propane systems which were converted to natural gas without retubing. The copper tube in the propane systems was adequately sized to meet the demands of the appliances, taking into consideration the lower calorific value of natural gas, and resizing was not necessary. These systems continue to give excellent performance.
Natural gas combo water heaters are ideal for multi-unit buildings, such as condominiums.

Heating Natural Gas: The use of copper tube to convey natural gas has become the fastest growing new application for copper tube in recent years. The 2000 edition of the Canadian Standards Association B149 Installation Code permits the use of two Types of copper for above ground natural gas systems and propane systems - Type G/GAS tube meeting ASTM B837, and Type L tube meeting ASTM B88. For underground lines, Type K copper tube, plastic-coated Type G/GAS tube, or plastic-coated Type L tube, are required. Provincial regulatory authorities are expected to adopt these requirements. Local authorities should be consulted before specifying or installing any type of copper tube.
12

Fuel Oil: For small diameter fuel lines and connections between the oil storage tank and the burner, soft temper tube is usually used. General Purpose tube or Type L tube are typically selected. Hydronic Heating: In hydronic systems, hot water is recirculated in a closed loop to provide uniform heat in rooms. For large buildings, systems can be zoned to maintain various temperature levels in different areas. Hard temper Type M copper tube is used for circulation of the hot water from compact boilers to unobtrusive baseboard convectors. The tube inside the convectors usually has large fins to increase its heat transfer properties. Combo Systems: A relatively recent advance involves the use of combination units for heating water for the potable water supply and space heating. Gas-fired units are particularly pop-

Applications
ular for this purpose, but other fuels can be used. Since the heated water circulated through the convectors or heat exchangers is also potable, only materials permitted for potable water systems may be used. As a result copper tube and fittings are key components of combo systems. Radiant Heating: In recent years there has been a resurgence in the popularity of radiant heating. In these systems, low-temperature hot water is circulated through grids of copper tube embedded in a concrete floor or plaster ceiling. Soft temper Type L tube is commonly used for the sinuous or grid patterns in the floor or ceiling. Hydraulics, heat output, and location must be considered when selecting the tube size and spacing. Radiant panels which fit into suspended T-bar ceilings are also available. for patient care in health care facilities, and include oxygen, nitrous oxide, medical air, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, helium, and vacuum lines. Hard temper copper tube is the only material permitted by installation codes for above ground medical gas systems in Canada. CSA Standard Z305.1 specifies that Types K and L tube manufactured to meet the requirements of ASTM Standard B 819 be used. B 819 tube is specially cleaned and is supplied to the installer capped or plugged. Care must be taken to prevent contamination Three copper medical gas lines of the system when the caps in a hospital. or plugs are removed. During installation and brazing, continuous purging with nitrogen is carried out to maintain a clean, oxide free interior. For copper-to-copper joints, a copper-phosphorus brazing filler metal (BCuP series) without flux is required. A flux is permitted when brazing dissimilar metals. Note: CSA Z305.1 must be referred to for details on the materials and joining methods permitted for medical gas installation. Fire Sprinklers The National Building Code of Canada and provincial codes reference NFPA* Standards 13, 13D and 13R for the installation of fire sprinkler systems in buildings for all types of occu-

Copper tube has been used for decades for propane gas installations.

Steam Heat: The high corrosion resistance and non-rusting characteristics of copper tube assure trouble-free service and reduce the maintenance of traps, valves, and other devices. Types K and L meet the requirements of the average steam heating system and Type M may be used for certain low pressure installations. Pressure tables will show which Type will assure adequate safety factor. On condensate and hot water return lines, it is recommended that the last two feet before the heating medium should be double the size of the rest of the line. For example, if the return line is 1-in. tube, then enlarge it to 2-in. Refrigeration & Air-Conditioning Copper is the preferred material for use with all refrigerants except ammonia. Huge quantities of copper tube and fittings are used in the fabrication of equipment and for the installation of systems. Type ACR tube (Air-Conditioning-Refrigeration) is covered by ASTM Standard B 280. It is degreased, dehydrated, and capped before it leaves the tube production plant. Nitrogen-charged or nitrogen-purged tube are also available. The nitrogen protects the tube and maintains a clean surface inside the tube prior to installation. Medical Gas Systems Medical gas systems convey nonflammable medical gases used

Residential copper fire sprinkler systems typically use Type M tube and fast-response sprinkler heads. 13

Applications
pancies including residences. The NFPA Standards permit Types M, L, and K copper tube to be used for wet sprinkler systems, in sizes down to 3/4-in. A variety of joining methods may be used, including brazing, soldering, and epoxy adhesives. Tee-pulling tools and brazed joints are particularly suitable for installing the grids of tube needed to provide sprinkler coverage on floors of office buildings, for example. Mechanical couplings may be used for large sizes of tube. (* National Fire Protection Association) Snow Melting Systems A solution of hot water and glycol antifreeze can be circulated at temperatures between 50oC and 55oC (120 to 130oF) through copper tube embedded in concrete slabs or asphalt, to melt surface snow and ice from walks, ramps, driveways and loading platforms. Type L tube generally is used for this application, and it is buried about 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 inches below the surface, depending on whether concrete or asphalt is used. It is laid out in sinuous or grid patterns similar to radiant heating systems. Ground Source Heat Pumps Recent heat pump technology, known as direct-expansion, uses a refrigerant-filled copper coil which is buried in direct contact with the earth. This design eliminates the need for an extra pump and heat exchanger commonly seen in conventional ground-source heat pump systems which use a secondary antifreeze solution circulating through a plastic ground coil. The most efficient ground-source heat pumps use small sizes of ACR or Type L copper tube. The tube for the coil can either be buried vertically where space is a premium, or horizontally in medium depth trenches. Solar Heating Copper tube is used in the roof-top collectors in active solar energy systems, and for the lines joining the collectors to the circulation equipment. These systems capture energy from the sun to heat domestic water, which reduces a residences energy consumption for regular water heating.

Corrosion Resistance
No other plumbing material has the service performance record of copper water tube and fittings. Copper tube has been used for hot and cold water systems since the 1930s. And it is not uncommon for these early installations to still be performing satisfactorily 60 years later! There are thousands upon thousands of installations completed in the fifties, sixties and seventies that have provided decades of trouble-free service and continue to function satisfactorily. Coppers corrosion resistance is related to its ability to form a uniform, adherent, protective oxide film in contact with most waters. However, there are instances where the protective film may not form, or it may be damaged or disrupted, and corrosion may occur. These instances are exceptionally rare when one considers the many millions of feet of copper tube that are in service in Canada, as well as North America, Europe, and other regions. Cuprosolvency may occur in soft waters, with low hardness and low alkalinity, and a pH of 7 or lower. It may cause a blue/ green water colour and staining of plumbing fittings or laundry. The general dissolution of copper tube associated with cuprosolvency is a very slow process which thins the tube but does not usually result in failure of the wall of the tube. Cold Water Pitting is associated with well or other ground waters containing free carbon dioxide in conjunction with dissolved oxygen. Such waters are generally referred to as being aggressive. Pits develop from the inside of the tube, and typically they have a blue/green tubercle or hollow mound of corrosion products over the pit. Cold water pitting can be mitigated by treatment of the water to eliminate its aggressiveness. A variety of water treatment methods are available. Flux Corrosion is another form of pitting which is attributable to the use of aggressive soldering fluxes (see page 7) and poor workmanship. If too much flux is used or insufficient heat is applied during soldering, a waxy petrolatum residue may remain in the tube. The corrosive residues may eventually result in pitting. It is important to emphasize again that flux corrosion does not occur often when one considers the millions of solder joints that are made annually. Erosion Corrosion is caused by excessive localized water velocity and/or turbulence. Affected areas are typically free from the protective oxide film and corrosion products, and may be bright and shiny with horseshoe-shaped pits present. Failure to deburr the inside edge of a tube after cutting is one of the most common causes of turbulence in a system. Another cause is too many abrupt changes in direction. Hot Water Recirculating Systems require special mention. Excessive velocity in such systems is a common cause of erosion corrosion and failure. Installations which use small sizes of tube or too large pumps result in higher than recommended flow

A Gas-TecTM Copper Manifold provides ease of installation for copper gas supply lines. 14

Corrosion Resistance
rates. Other factors such as system design, installation workmanship, operating temperature and water chemistry must also be taken into consideration. CCBDA Information Sheet 97-02 available on request, provides detailed information on the design and installation of hot water recirculating lines. Galvanic, or Dissimilar Metal, Corrosion of copper and copper alloys is exceptionally rare. Incidents often attributed to galvanic corrosion are usually erroneous. In the galvanic series of metals, copper is one of the most noble metals. (Table 13) This means that copper is the most corrosion resistant. In other words, when copper is in contact with iron, steel or aluminum in water distribution systems, for example, the copper does not corrode; the other metal will eventually fail if the conditions for galvanic corrosion are present. This situation can be prevented by using a dielectric fitting between the copper and the less noble metal. It should be added that electrolysis should not be confused with galvanic corrosion. Underground Copper lines are renowned for their excellent performance in a wide variety of soil conditions. Copper does not corrode in most clays, chalks, loams, sands, and gravels. There are a few aggressive soil conditions that may result in corrosion when moisture is present. Cinder fill containing sulphur is one example. In such conditions, the tube should be insulated from the cinders by a layer of sand mixed with lime, or a layer of limestone, or by wrapping with moisture-proof tape. Concrete is often thought to cause corrosion of copper, but this is a misconception. Copper is unaffected by Portland cements which provide an alkaline environment. However, non-alkaline cements containing sulphurous ash or other inorganic acids should be avoided, as should foamed concretes which employ ammonia-containing foaming agents.

Table 13: The Galvanic Series

Platinum Gold Silver Stainless Steel - Passive Copper Tin Lead Stainless Steel - Active Cast Iron Mild Steel Aluminum Galvanized Steel Zinc Magnesium Most noble - Most corrosion resistant

Least noble - Least corrosion resistant

Table 1: Dimensions and Weights of Types K, L, M(1) and DWV(2) Tube

Nominal or Standard Size, in. 1/4 3/8 1/2 5/8 3/4 1 1-1/4 1-1/2 2 2-1/2 3 3-1/2 4 5 6 8 10 12
(1) (2)

Outside Diameter, in. All Types 0.375 0.500 0.625 0.750 0.875 1.125 1.375 1.625 2.125 2.625 3.125 3.625 4.125 5.125 6.125 8.125 10.125 12.125

K 0.305 0.402 0.527 0.652 0.745 0.995 1.245 1.481 1.959 2.435 2.907 3.385 3.857 4.805 5.741 7.583 9.449 11.315

Inside Diameter, in. L M 0.315 * 0.430 0.450 0.545 0.569 0.666 * 0.785 0.811 1.025 1.055 1.265 1.291 1.505 1.527 1.985 2.009 2.465 2.495 2.945 2.981 3.425 3.459 3.905 3.935 4.875 4.907 5.845 5.881 7.725 7.785 9.625 9.701 11.565 11.617

DWV * * * * * * 1.295 1.541 2.041 * 3.030 * 4.009 4.981 5.959 7.907 * *

K 0.035 0.049 0.049 0.049 0.065 0.065 0.065 0.072 0.083 0.095 0.109 0.120 0.134 0.160 0.192 0.271 0.338 0.405

Wall Thickness, in. L M 0.030 * 0.035 0.025 0.040 0.028 0.042 * 0.045 0.032 0.050 0.035 0.055 0.042 0.060 0.049 0.070 0.058 0.080 0.065 0.090 0.072 0.100 0.083 0.110 0.095 0.125 0.109 0.140 0.122 0.200 0.170 0.250 0.212 0.280 0.254

DWV * * * * * * 0.040 0.042 0.042 * 0.045 * 0.058 0.072 0.083 0.109 * *

K 0.145 0.269 0.344 0.418 0.641 0.839 1.04 1.36 2.06 2.93 4.00 5.12 6.51 9.67 13.9 25.9 40.3 57.8

Theoretical Weight Pounds per Linear Foot L M 0.126 * 0.198 0.145 0.285 0.204 0.362 * 0.455 0.328 0.655 0.465 0.884 0.682 1.14 0.940 1.75 1.46 2.48 2.03 3.33 2.68 4.29 3.58 5.38 4.66 7.61 6.66 10.2 8.92 19.3 16.5 30.1 25.6 40.4 36.7

DWV * * * * * * 0.650 0.809 1.07 * 1.69 * 2.87 4.43 6.10 10.6 * *

ASTM B 88-96 ASTM B 306-96 * Not available

15

Table 2: Dimensions and Weights of Type ACR Tube(1)

Standard Size, in. 1/8 3/16 1/4 5/16 3/8 1/2 5/8 3/4 3/4 7/8 1-1/8 1-3/8 1-5/8 2-1/8 2-5/8 3-1/8 3-5/8 4-1/8
(1)

Outside Diameter, in. 0.125 0.187 0.250 0.312 0.375 0.500 0.625 0.750 0.750 0.875 1.125 1.375 1.625 * * * * * * Not available

Annealed Inside Diameter, in. 0.065 0.127 0.190 0.248 0.311 0.436 0.555 0.680 0.666 0.785 1.025 1.265 1.505 * * * * *

Wall Thickness, in. 0.030 0.030 0.030 0.032 0.032 0.032 0.035 0.035 0.042 0.045 0.050 0.055 0.060 * * * * *

Outside Diameter, in. * * * * 0.375 0.500 0.625 * 0.750 0.875 1.125 1.375 1.625 2.125 2.625 3.125 3.625 4.125

Drawn Inside Diameter, in. * * * * 0.315 0.430 0.545 * 0.666 0.785 1.025 1.265 1.505 1.985 2.465 2.945 3.425 3.905

Wall Thickness, in. * * * * 0.030 0.035 0.040 * 0.042 0.045 0.050 0.055 0.060 0.070 0.080 0.090 0.100 0.110

Theoretical Weight Pounds per Linear Foot 0.0347 0.0575 0.0804 0.109 0.134 0.126 0.182 0.198 0.251 0.285 0.305 * 0.362 0.362 0.455 0.655 0.884 1.14 1.75 2.48 3.33 4.29 5.38

ASTM B 280-95a

Table 4: Bending Guide Table 3: Dimensions and Weights of ASTM B 837-95 Type G/GAS Tube(1)
(1)

(1)

Minimum radius for mechanical bending equipment only. Minimum Bend Radius(1), in. 3/4 1-1/2 1-3/4 2-1/4 2-1/2 3 3 4 9

Standard Size, in. 3/8 1/2 5/8 3/4 7/8 1-1/8

Outside Diameter, in. 0.375 0.500 0.625 0.750 0.875 1.125

Wall Thickness, in. 0.030 0.035 0.040 0.042 0.045 0.050

Theoretical Weight Pounds per Linear Foot 0.126 0.198 0.285 0.362 0.455 0.655

Nominal or Standard Size, in. 1/4 3/8 3/8 1/2 1/2 3/4 3/4 1 1-1/4

Tube Type K, L K, L K, L K, L K, L K, L K, L K, L K, L

Temper Annealed Annealed Drawn Annealed Drawn Annealed Drawn Annealed Annealed

Table 5: Radii of Coiled Expansion Loops and Developed Lengths of Expansion Offsets
Expected Expansion, in. R 1/2 L R 1 L R 1-1/2 L R 2 L R 2-1/2 L R 3 L R 3-1/2 L R 4 L 1/4 6 38 9 54 11 66 12 77 14 86 15 94 16 102 17 109 3/8 7 44 10 63 12 77 14 89 16 99 17 109 19 117 20 126 1/2 8 50 11 70 14 86 16 99 18 111 19 122 21 131 22 140 3/4 9 59 13 83 16 101 19 117 21 131 23 143 25 155 26 166 Radius R, inches, for Nominal or Standard Tube Sizes Shown Length L, inches, for Nominal or Standard Tube Sizes Shown 1 1-1/4 1-1/2 2 2-1/2 11 12 13 15 16 67 74 80 91 102 15 17 18 21 23 94 104 113 129 144 18 20 22 25 28 115 127 138 158 176 21 23 25 29 32 133 147 160 183 203 24 26 29 33 36 149 165 179 205 227 26 29 31 36 40 163 180 196 224 249 28 31 34 39 43 176 195 212 242 269 30 33 36 41 46 188 208 226 259 288 3 18 111 25 157 30 191 35 222 40 248 43 272 47 293 50 314 3 1/2 19 120 27 169 33 206 38 239 43 267 47 293 50 316 54 338 4 20 128 29 180 35 220 41 255 45 285 50 312 54 337 57 361 5 23 142 32 201 39 245 45 284 51 318 55 348 60 376 64 402

16

Table 6: Rated Internal Working Pressure (psi) for Types K, L, and M Tube(1)
Nominal or Standard Size, in. 1/4 T Y P E K L M K L M K L M K L M K L M K L M K L M K L M K L M K L M K L M K L M K L M K L M K L M K L M K L M K L M Annealed(2) Drawn(3) S= S= S= S= S= S= S= S= S= S= S= S= S= S= 6000 psi 5100 psi 4800 psi 4800 psi 4700 psi 4000 psi 3000 psi 9000 psi 9000 psi 9000 psi 9000 psi 8700 psi 8500 psi 8200 psi 100F 150F 200F 250F 300F 350F 400F 100F 150F 200F 250F 300F 350F 400F 1074 913 860 860 842 716 537 1612 1612 1612 1612 1558 1522 1468 912 775 729 729 714 608 456 1367 1367 1367 1367 1322 1292 1246 1130 960 904 904 885 753 565 1695 1695 1695 1695 1638 1601 1544 779 662 623 623 610 519 389 1168 1168 1168 1168 1129 1103 1064 570 485 456 456 447 380 285 855 855 855 855 827 808 779 891 758 713 713 698 594 446 1337 1337 1337 1337 1293 1263 1218 722 613 577 577 565 481 361 1082 1082 1082 1082 1046 1022 986 494 420 395 395 387 329 247 741 741 741 741 716 700 675 736 626 589 589 577 491 368 1104 1104 1104 1104 1067 1043 1006 631 537 505 505 495 421 316 947 947 947 947 916 895 863 852 724 682 682 668 568 426 1278 1278 1278 1278 1236 1207 1165 582 495 466 466 456 388 291 873 873 873 873 844 825 796 407 346 326 326 319 271 204 611 611 611 611 590 577 556 655 557 524 524 513 437 327 982 982 982 982 949 928 895 494 420 395 395 387 330 247 741 741 741 741 717 700 676 337 286 270 270 264 225 169 506 506 506 506 489 477 461 532 452 425 425 416 354 266 797 797 797 797 771 753 727 439 373 351 351 344 293 219 658 658 658 658 636 622 600 338 287 271 271 265 225 169 507 507 507 507 490 479 462 494 420 396 396 387 330 247 742 742 742 742 717 700 676 408 347 327 327 320 272 204 613 613 613 613 592 579 558 331 282 265 265 259 221 166 497 497 497 497 480 469 453 435 370 348 348 341 290 217 652 652 652 652 630 616 594 364 309 291 291 285 242 182 545 545 545 545 527 515 497 299 254 239 239 234 199 149 448 448 448 448 433 423 408 398 338 319 319 312 265 199 597 597 597 597 577 564 544 336 285 269 269 263 224 168 504 504 504 504 487 476 459 274 233 219 219 215 183 137 411 411 411 411 397 388 375 385 328 308 308 302 257 193 578 578 578 578 559 546 527 317 270 254 254 248 211 159 476 476 476 476 460 449 433 253 215 203 203 199 169 127 380 380 380 380 367 359 346 366 311 293 293 286 244 183 549 549 549 549 530 518 500 304 258 243 243 238 202 152 455 455 455 455 440 430 415 252 214 202 202 197 168 126 378 378 378 378 366 357 345 360 306 288 288 282 240 180 540 540 540 540 522 510 492 293 249 235 235 230 196 147 440 440 440 440 425 415 401 251 213 201 201 197 167 126 377 377 377 377 364 356 343 345 293 276 276 270 230 172 517 517 517 517 500 488 471 269 229 215 215 211 179 135 404 404 404 404 390 381 368 233 198 186 186 182 155 116 349 349 349 349 338 330 318 346 295 277 277 271 231 173 520 520 520 520 502 491 474 251 213 201 201 196 167 125 376 376 376 376 364 355 343 218 186 175 175 171 146 109 328 328 328 328 317 310 299 369 314 295 295 289 246 184 553 553 553 553 535 523 504 270 230 216 216 212 180 135 406 406 406 406 392 383 370 229 195 183 183 180 153 115 344 344 344 344 332 325 313 369 314 295 295 289 246 184 553 553 553 553 535 523 504 271 231 217 217 212 181 136 407 407 407 407 393 384 371 230 195 184 184 180 153 115 344 344 344 344 333 325 314 370 314 296 296 290 247 185 555 555 555 555 536 524 506 253 215 203 203 199 169 127 380 380 380 380 368 359 346 230 195 184 184 180 153 115 345 345 345 345 333 326 314
(3)

3/8

1/2

5/8

3/4

1-1/4

1-1/2

2-1/2

3-1/2

10

12
(1) (2)

Based on maximum allowable stress in tension (psi) for the indicated temperatures. Type M tube is not available in the annealed temper. Annealed values are provided for guidance when drawn temper Type M is brazed or welded.

When brazing or welding is used to join drawn tube, the corresponding annealed rating must be used.

17

Table 7: Rated Internal Working Pressure (psi) for ACR Tube(1) - Straight Lengths
Nominal or Standard Size, in. 3/8 1/2 5/8 3/4 7/8 1-1/8 1-3/8 1-5/8 2-1/8 2-5/8 3-1/8 3-5/8 4-1/8
(1) (2)

STRAIGHT LENGTHS Annealed(2) S= S= S= S= S= S= S= 6000 psi 5100 psi 4800 psi 4800 psi 4700 psi 4000 psi 3000 psi 100F 150F 200F 250F 300F 350F 400F 912 775 729 729 714 608 456 779 662 623 623 610 519 389 722 613 577 577 565 481 361 631 537 505 505 495 421 316 582 495 466 466 456 388 291 494 420 395 395 387 330 247 439 373 351 351 344 293 219 408 347 327 327 320 272 204 364 309 291 291 285 242 182 336 285 269 269 263 224 168 317 270 254 254 248 211 159 304 258 243 243 238 202 152 293 249 235 235 230 196 147

Nominal or Standard Size, in. 3/8 1/2 5/8 3/4 7/8 1-1/8 1-3/8 1-5/8 2-1/8 2-5/8 3-1/8 3-5/8 4-1/8

STRAIGHT LENGTHS Drawn(2) S= S= S= S= S= S= S= 9000 psi 9000 psi 9000 psi 9000 psi 8700 psi 8500 psi 8200 psi 100F 150F 200F 250F 300F 350F 400F 1371 1371 1371 1371 1326 1295 1249 1172 1172 1172 1172 1133 1107 1068 1085 1085 1085 1085 1049 1025 989 949 949 949 949 918 896 865 875 875 875 875 846 827 797 743 743 743 743 718 702 677 660 660 660 660 638 623 601 614 614 614 614 593 580 559 546 546 546 546 528 516 498 504 504 504 504 487 476 459 476 476 476 476 460 449 433 455 455 455 455 440 430 415 440 440 440 440 425 415 401

Based on maximum allowable stress in tension (psi) for the indicated temperature. When brazing or welding is used to join drawn tube, the corresponding annealed rating must be used.

Nominal or Standard Size, in. 1/8 3/16 1/4 5/16 3/8 1/2 5/8 3/4 3/4 7/8 1-1/8 1-3/8 1-5/8

COILS Annealed S= S= S= S= S= S= S= 6000 psi 5100 psi 4800 psi 4800 psi 4700 psi 4000 psi 3000 psi 100F 150F 200F 250F 300F 350F 400F 3074 2613 2459 2459 2408 2049 1537 1935 1645 1548 1548 1516 1290 968 1406 1195 1125 1125 1102 938 703 1197 1017 957 957 937 798 598 984 836 787 787 770 656 492 727 618 581 581 569 485 363 618 525 494 494 484 412 309 511 435 409 409 400 341 256 631 537 505 505 495 421 316 582 495 466 466 456 388 291 494 420 395 395 387 330 247 439 373 351 351 344 293 219 408 347 327 327 320 272 204

Table 8: Rated Internal Working Pressure (psi) for ACR Tube(1) - Coils
(1)

Based on maximum allowable stress in tension (psi) for the indicated temperature.

Nominal or Standard Size, in. 1/2 3/4 1 1-1/4 1-1/2 2 2-1/2 3 4 5 6 8

Outside Diameter, in. 0.625 0.875 1.125 1.375 1.625 2.125 2.625 3.125 4.125 5.125 6.125 8.125

L(2)

M Drawn 6135 4715 3865 3875 3550 2935 2800 2665 2215 2490 2000 2285

Drawn Annealed Drawn Annealed 9840 4535 7765 3885 9300 4200 5900 2935 7200 3415 5115 2650 5525 2800 4550 2400 5000 2600 4100 2200 3915 2235 3365 1910 3575 * 3215 * 3450 * 2865 * 3415 * 2865 * 3585 * 2985 * 3425 * 2690 * 3635 * 2650 *

Table 9: Actual Burst Pressure(1) (psi) for Types K, L, and M Tube, at Room Temperature
* Not available.
(1)

The figures shown are averages of three certified tests performed on each Type and size of tube. In each case, wall thickness was at or near the minimum specified for each tube Type. No burst pressure in any test deviated from the average by more than 5%. (2) Type L burst pressures can be used for ACR tube of equivalent actual O.D. and wall thickness.

18

Table 10: Rated Internal Working Pressure (psi) for Type DWV Tube(1)
Nominal or Standard Size, in. 1-1/4 1-1/2 2 3 4 5 6 8
(1) (2)

Annealed(2) Drawn(3) S= S= S= S= S= S= S= S= S= S= S= S= S= S= 6000 psi 5100 psi 4800 psi 4800 psi 4700 psi 4000 psi 3000 psi 9000 psi 9000 psi 9000 psi 9000 psi 8700 psi 8500 psi 8200 psi 100F 150F 200F 250F 300F 400F 100F 150F 200F 250F 300F 350F 400F 350F 330 280 264 264 258 165 494 494 494 494 478 467 451 220 293 249 235 235 230 147 440 440 440 440 425 415 401 196 217 185 174 174 170 109 326 326 326 326 315 308 297 145 159 135 127 127 125 80 239 239 239 239 231 225 217 106 150 127 120 120 117 75 225 225 225 225 217 212 205 100 151 129 121 121 119 76 227 227 227 227 219 214 207 101 148 126 119 119 116 74 223 223 223 223 215 210 203 99 146 124 117 117 114 73 219 219 219 219 212 207 200 97
(3)

Based on maximum allowable stress in tension (psi) for the indicated temperatures. Type DWV is not available in the annealed temper. Annealed values are provided for guidance when drawn temper tube is brazed or welded.

When brazing or welding is used to join drawn tube, the corresponding annealed rating must be used.

Table 11: Recommended Maximum Internal Working Pressure (psi) for Joints in Types K, L, and M Tube
Solder or Brazing Alloy Used in Joints 50 - 50 Tin-Lead Solder(1)(2) Nominal or Standard Size, in. Service Temperature F 100 150 200 250 Saturated Steam 100 150 200 250 Saturated Steam 100-150-200 250 350 Saturated Steam 1/4 to 1 (incl) 200 150 100 85 15 500 400 300 200 15 * 300 270 120 1-1/4 to 2 (incl) 175 125 90 75 15 400 350 250 175 15 * 210 190 120 2-1/2 to 4 (incl) 150 100 75 50 15 300 275 200 150 15 * 170 150 120 5 to 8 (incl) 130 90 70 50 15 150 150 150 140 15 * 150 150 120
(1) (2)

See ASTM B 32 Not permitted in potable (drinking) water systems. * Recommended maximum pressure is the rated pressure of annealed tube shown in Table 6.

95 - 5 Tin-Antimony Solder(1) Brazing Alloys Melting at or above 1100F

Table 12: Approximate Consumption of Filler Metals(1)

Nominal or Standard Size, in. 1/4 3/8 1/2 3/4 1 1-1/4 1-1/2 2 2-1/2 3 3 1/2 4 5 6 Solder Pounds of Solder per 100 Joints(2) Pressure Fittings * 0.5 0.8 1.0 1.5 1.8 2.0 2.5 3.4 4.2 4.8 6.0 8.5 16.0 Drainage Fittings * * * * * 1.3 1.5 2.0 * 3.2 * 4.5 * * 1/16 Wire(3),(4) 0.8 1.0 1.5 2.0 3.0 4.0 * * * * * * * * Brazing Alloy Linear Inches per Joint 3/32 Wire(3),(5) * * 0.8 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.8 6.0 10.0 12.0 14.0 16.5 21.0 5/64 Wire(3),(6) * * 0.9 1.1 1.6 2.1 2.6 4.0 7.0 11.0 13.0 15.5 18.0 23.0 * Not applicable
(1)

Actual consumption depends on workmanship and size of joints. (2) Flux required is about 2 oz per lb of solder. (3) Other sizes are available. (4) 1090 inches of 1/16 wire per lb. (5) 484 inches of 3/32 wire per lb. (6) 524 inches of 5/64 wire per lb.

19

Why Select Copper?

Superior performance at reasonable cost! Copper tube and fittings are chosen for the majority of new and retrofit installations in Canada, because the advantages of copper systems provide long, trouble-free service at low, totalinstalled cost. Light & Compact: Coppers light weight permits easier handling and prefabrication. It costs less to transport and takes less space when installed. Easy to Join: The wide range of types of fittings available simplifies installation. Soldering and brazing provide neat, strong and leakproof joints.

CCBDA Services
The purpose of the Canadian Copper & Brass Development Association is to promote, develop, and stimulate the use of copper and copper alloys in new and existing applications. It is supported by the Canadian Copper Industry, including the manufacturers of tube, fittings, and related plumbing products. Technical Assistance is available to everyone interested. Guidance can be provided on installation methods, codes and regulations, product standards, availability of materials, and so forth. Literature available includes the Manual on Natural Gas Systems, Information Sheets on a variety of topics such as Hot Water Recirculating Systems, and the periodical Canadian Copper which covers the latest applications of copper products. Videos are available on techniques for Soldering, Brazing, and Flaring & Bending, as well as applications such as natural gas systems. All of the services, including the publications and videos, are provided free of charge. Contact the CCBDA to obtain the latest list of topics covered.

Fabrication: Tube can be cut quickly with a variety of commonly available tools. It can also be readily bent and formed when necessary. Corrosion Resistance: Excellent resistance to corrosion assures long, trouble-free service. Immunity to rust and resistance to clogging minimize maintenance. Flow: Coppers smooth interior means minimum resistance to flow. Also fittings do not restrict flow, and do not make additional allowances necessary when sizing systems. Safe: Copper tube will not burn or support combustion and decompose to toxic gases, and therefore, it will not carry fire through floors, walls, and ceilings. Volatile organic compounds are not required for installation. Dependable: Copper tube and fittings are manufactured to meet the requirements of widely recognized standards. They are accepted by all plumbing codes in Canada, as well as by the installation codes covering other applications. The Bottom Line: Copper systems are cost-effective when compared with competitive materials! Coppers ease of installation reduces total costs, and its reliability means fewer callbacks and minimum maintenance expenses. Copper also has high scrap value, and is readily recycled.

CCBDA Publication No. 28E, Second Edition, 2000

CANADIAN COPPER & BRASS DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION

49 The Donway West, Suite 415, Don Mills, Ontario, Canada M3C 3M9 Telephone: (416) 391-5599 Fax: (416) 391-3823 Toll Free: 1-877- 640-0946 e-mail: coppercanada@onramp.ca web site: www.ccbda.org