Copper pipes varieties of products and the process of their installation

Copper pipes are an essential component of your home’s insulation and heating system that are frequently overlooked but are essential to comfort and efficiency. These modest tubes are the unsung heroes of your home; they carry cold water for various applications and hot water for heating. This post will examine the various types of copper pipes that are available as well as how to install them.

There are several varieties of copper pipes, and each is appropriate for a particular use and setting. Copper tubing, flexible copper pipes, and rigid copper pipes are the most popular varieties. Solid and durable, rigid copper pipes are perfect for long-term installations like those in walls and ceilings. Conversely, flexible copper pipes are more adaptable and frequently used to connect appliances or in small areas. Because of its seamless design, copper tubing is ideal for plumbing applications where a leak-proof solution is crucial.

To guarantee optimum performance and longevity, copper pipe installation calls for accuracy and consideration. Planning and designing the layout is usually the first step in the process, which takes into consideration variables like thermal expansion, flow rate, and water pressure. To ensure a tight fit and stop leaks, the pipes must be measured and cut correctly.

After the pipes are cut to length, they need to be cleaned and deburred to get rid of any debris or sharp edges that can damage the connections. Fitting and soldering come next, where joints are firmly joined with the use of flux and a specialized soldering torch. Particularly in colder climates, proper insulation of the pipes is crucial to preventing heat loss and condensation.

To guarantee the longevity of copper pipes, it’s crucial to comprehend their maintenance needs in addition to installation. Frequent checks for leaks or corrosion, along with quick fixes when needed, can help avoid expensive damage and guarantee continuous operation.

Copper Pipe Variety	Installation Process
Standard Copper Pipe	Measure and cut the pipe to the required length using a pipe cutter. Clean the ends of the pipe and fittings with emery cloth. Apply flux to the cleaned surfaces. Assemble the pipes and fittings, ensuring they are properly aligned. Heat the joint with a torch and apply solder to create a watertight seal.
Flexible Copper Pipe	Measure and cut the flexible pipe to the desired length. Attach fittings to both ends of the pipe. Connect the pipe to the water supply using compression fittings. Ensure the fittings are tight to prevent leaks.

installation of copper pipelines

It is safe to say that copper pipes are truly universal when installation technologies are taken into account. Most of the time, you can use fittings made by other manufacturers and a variety of connection techniques with the same pipe. Depending on what needs to be done, the following can be done:

• welding;
• mechanical assembly (pressing, compression connection, clamping with self-locking fittings);
• soldering (with hard or soft solder).

Pipes that are typically welded and have a wall thickness of at least 1.5 mm and a diameter of at least 100 mm. Mechanical assembly has several drawbacks, including the inability to be used in places that are hidden within building structures or enclosed in monoliths and the relatively high cost of these fixtures. The most common soft solder in home heating systems is low-temperature solder, which calls for specific capillary fittings (ideally made of the same brand as the pipe).

A mechanical assembly option. Press jaws are employed in connection fixing.

Kindly take note! The copper in the connection zone is "annealed" when using hard solder, which requires heating the metal to 6000 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. For pipes that have a diameter of 22 mm or greater, high-temperature capillary brazing is necessary, for instance, if you need an extra strong fixation or if the coolant will be heated to a temperature higher than 170 degrees Celsius while the pipe is operating.

Preparation for capillary soldering

1. A special tool is used to cut the pipe of the required size.
2. A chamfer is removed from the outside of the end of the workpiece, which further reduces the hydraulic resistance in the joint area.
3. An abrasive sponge, which does not contain metal fibers, is used to remove the oxide film on the outer surface of the pipe and inside the fitting.
4. Apply and distribute flux paste over the entire contact area with a brush (flux is not necessary for hard solder).
5. The fitting is put on the branch pipe up to the stop (it is better with a slight twist).
6. Flux is removed from the surface with a rag.

Low-temperature brazing of copper pipe

1. The joint area is heated until the flux melts. The torch nozzle should be moved evenly around the neck.
2. The filler wire (solder) is smoothly drawn along the edge of the joint. If the pipe is horizontal, start from the bottom.
3. The solder will start to melt and "wet" the surfaces, due to the capillary effect it will flow into the cavities between the walls of the parts to be joined.
4. The assembled assembly should cool naturally, without the use of water.

When you use high-quality solder, the gap is filled completely, creating a tidy, clean joint.

As you can see, making sound financial investments will pay off when using copper pipes for heating. For homeowners who are able and willing to use copper pipes, the finest performance features are provided by dependable, long-lasting wiring. This explains why so many professionals adore this technique.

Methods and technologies of manufacturing

In the end, two primary manufacturing technologies determine the pipeline’s performance attributes, its application range, and the price of the pipes and fittings that connect to them:

• Rolled production.
• Welding.

After the pipes are finished, they can be painted, chrome plated, and covered in sheathing made of polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride.

Rolling

The seamless or rolled method is thought to be the most popular and offers the strongest pipes. The basic idea behind the technology is to "cold" run the copper billet (sleeve) through a special pipe rolling machine’s rotating rollers to give it the desired configuration.

It is advised to use rolled pipes in heating and plumbing systems.

Welded production

Copper sheet is used to make welded pipes. The copper sheet is rolled to the appropriate size and shape on a press roll dummy, and inert gas is used to fuse the joints together. Following the welding process, the pipe is aligned and the longitudinal deformation of the weld seam is eliminated by rolling it on calibration rolls.

Scope of application and limitations of use

For both residential and commercial applications, rolled copper pipes are utilized in numerous communication systems.

Fixing plumbing. Historically employed for a variety of purposes when building water supplies. Building trunk lines with varying capacities and meterages is made possible by the properties of copper and the variety of rolled pipes available.

The minimal amount of chlorine in drinking water (typically no more than 0.5 mg/l) is neutralized by sanitary copper. Storm water drainage and sewerage systems have demonstrated the efficacy of copper piping.

Warming up the network. There is a twofold result. One benefit of corrosion resistance is its ability to withstand wear and tear over time. Another is that it shields the system from uncontrollably high coolant temperatures. In floor heating systems, the use of copper piping with an insulating sheath is justified.

Pipeline for gas. The tightness of the main line is what makes rolled copper convenient. During gas transportation, there is no oxidation or galvanic corrosion. In seismically active areas, the safety of the gas pipeline is increased by the dependability of the pressed connections and joints.

Gasoline configuration. Copper fittings are used in fuel oil pumping networks because of their neutrality, which eliminates the possibility of static charge formation and ignition.

Copper pipes are utilized in the cooling circuits of refrigerators and climate systems, hydraulic systems, brake systems of automobiles and aircraft, and heat exchangers of gas water heaters.

Applications’ subtleties and restrictions:

1. The boundary velocity of liquid transportation in the water pipeline is 2 m/sec. Compliance with the recommendation will prolong the service life of the "plastic" pipeline.
2. Copper is a soft metal and constant contact with a medium filled with solid particles can lead to "washout" of the walls. To prevent erosion, it is desirable to provide preliminary cleaning of water from foreign suspended solids. It is sufficient to install a coarse (mechanical) filter.
3. An oxide film appears on the inner walls of the copper main under favorable conditions – the coating does not deteriorate water quality and protects the metal from wear and tear. Requirements for the formation of patina: the acidity of the water stream pH – 6-9, hardness – 1,42-3,42 mg / l. At other parameters there is a cyclic destruction and restoration of the film due to the consumption of metal.
4. Lead solder should not be used for installation of drinking water pipelines – the metal and its compounds are toxic. The substance is able to accumulate in the body, having a gradual detrimental effect on various organs.

Copper communications can be connected to brass and plastic pipework. The joining sequence must be followed when joining copper pipes with steel and aluminum components.

Connection rule: in the direction of heat carrier circulation, sections of other metals should be positioned before copper pipes. The reversal of the order results in electrochemical corrosion.

What is important to know about the parameters of pipes

It is simpler to measure and enter the values of length and diameter into formulas because they are straightforward parameters with numerical equivalents. However, there are a number of factors to consider when determining a pipe’s thickness, and precision is required everywhere.

This is fascinating! Since copper pipes were first used in European construction technology in the middle of the 20th century, there have been differences in measurements. In our region at the time, millimeters served as the primary unit of measurement for iron products, which are still in widespread use today. Steel water pipelines are typically found in residential apartment buildings.

Private homes with copper utilities are more common in Europe. They are the most expensive to produce, but they are also the most resilient to corrosion. According to GOST, seamless copper products are produced and are steadily gaining market share. They are utilized for work as well as hygienic communications:

• split systems;
• solar panels;
• refrigeration systems;
• of autonomous heating;
• parts for mechanical engineering.

Different pipe segments require different pipe cross sections, so it’s critical to understand which diameter is suitable for a given application.

Soldering of copper water pipes

This is a safer approach, but in order to implement it, specific abilities and adherence to safety regulations are required.

The most labor-intensive way of connecting copper pipes is soldering.

The following steps are involved in soldering:

1. Use a pipe cutter or metal hacksaw to cut off the required piece of pipe.
2. Remove the thermal insulation, if any, at the end of the pipe.
3. Remove the formed burrs.
4. Using a grinding sandpaper, remove the oxide film from the soldering place.
5. Sand the fitting.
6. Remove any dust on the parts with a dry rag.
7. Apply flux to the surface of the pipe. Then the solder will spread evenly.
8. Insert the pipe end into the fitting so that the remaining gap between the parts does not exceed 0.4 mm.
9. Take a gas torch for soldering copper pipes and heat the place of the future connection. This can be done with a blowtorch as well. Move the flame over the seam evenly, not allowing any pipe section to overheat.
10. Insert the solder into the gap formed after inserting the copper pipe into the fitting and solder the joint.
11. Flush the plumbing well after installation to ensure that no flux particles remain in the system.

There’s one copper pipe trend that you shouldn’t ignore. It consists of the use of these products in sewage disposal systems in addition to water supply pipelines by owners of upscale country cottages or apartments in brand-new, contemporary buildings.

Indeed, everything in this type of housing, including the sewage system, needs to be of the greatest caliber. especially since you can accomplish this without compromising the caliber of the work produced by such a system thanks to the properties of copper pipes.

Copper pipes can be utilized for the drainage system as well, if preferred.

If you intend to use these products to connect different household plumbing fixtures to the sewage disposal system, pay attention to Table 2’s data when purchasing and installing copper pipes. This table shows the parameters for connecting water-consuming household appliances to the sewage disposal system.

Table Two

Appliance	Diameter of drainage system pipes, mm	Distance between trap and central drain without ventilation, mm	Slope
Shower, bathtub, sink, combination drain	50	170-230	1:48
Sink	30-40	130-150	1:36
Sink	40	0-80	1:12
Bidet	30-40	70-100	1:20
WC	100	up to 600	1:20
Shower	40	150-170	1:48
Bathtub	40	100-130	1:30

Kindly take note! It is not economically feasible to replace the current cast iron sewer riser with a copper sewer riser. This is a reference to plumbing products, including elbows, bends, and chrome faucet liners.

Several angles are possible, which reduces the amount of joints. This element enhances the appearance of engineering communication in addition to providing a guarantee of dependability. You will need a specialized pipe bender that can be used without preheating the pipe in order to carry out this procedure. Additionally, springs should be used to bend the heated pipe. The workpiece’s cross-section is maintained using this method.

Every homeowner wants their home’s communications to be dependable and efficient. Additionally, if you want to add a chic accent to your home’s décor while still using it as a full-featured water supply system, go with a copper water pipe.

Dimensional grid

Basic cross-sections and translation methodology

As we mentioned earlier, the pipe’s cross-section is typically expressed in fractions of an English inch. It is only challenging at first because, once you understand, you can translate these values "from the summer" by choosing the appropriate portion based on the assignment.

Wall thickness is an additional crucial factor.

The computations are very easy:

• So, the value of one inch is approximately 25 mm (actually 25.4 mm, but such accuracy is needed only in very rare cases).
• Now, to find out, for example, the diameter in mm of a copper pipe 1 4 inches, we multiply 25 by 1/4. As a result, we get a value of 6.25 mm.

A word of caution: this method only yields an approximate value because variations are typically caused by varying wall thicknesses in various sizes. For domestic purposes, though, this accuracy suffices.

Half-inch fitting-equipped spigot

Below is a complete table of copper pipe diameters:

Cross-section, inches	Outer diameter, mm	Wall thickness, mm
1/4	6,4	0,6
3/8	9,5	0,7
1/2	12,7	0,9
5/8	15,9	1,02
3/4	19,05	1,02
7/8	22,2	1,1
1 1/8	28,6	1,3
1 3/8	35,0	1,4
2 1/8	54	1,78
2 5/8	66,7	2,03
3 1/8	79,4	2,5
4 1/8	104,7	2,8

Be aware that pipe markings occasionally give wall thickness and cross-section measurements in millimeters rather than inches. For instance, a 6 mm diameter and a 1 mm wall make up a 6×1 copper pipe.

Goods featuring a 6 mm cross-section and a millimeter wall

Product weight

With these details, determining the mass of a linear meter to determine the load on load-bearing structures is fairly simple:

M is equal to (D – S) * S * 3,14 * p/1000.

• M – specific weight of the pipe (kg/m.pog).
• d – outside diameter, mm.
• S – wall thickness, mm.
• P – density of copper, 8.9 g/cm3.

So, in the event that we possess a copper pipe 1 1 8, then:

M weighs 752 g/m.slog (28.6 – 1.3) * 1.3 * 3.14 * 8.9/1000.

Similar to the cross-section, the figures are fairly imprecise; however, they are adequate for evaluating the circumstances.

Application of pipes of different diameters

Applications for copper products are quite diverse.

• Copper pipe 10 mm and less is used for installation of internal heat exchangers in heating and air-conditioning systems. Small diameter of such pipes provides maximum efficiency of functioning of such devices due to good energy transmission.
• Products from 10 to 25 mm are used for installation of water pipes. Copper pipe 1 2 inches is one of the most frequently used in the construction of the water supply system. The same applies to 3/4 inch parts.

Utilization in the production of convectors

• Varieties up to 40-45 mm are used for drainage systems. Despite their relatively small diameter, they provide effective drainage due to high permeability.
• Copper pipe 3 8, as well as thicker varieties are also well suited for heating systems. High temperature resistance of the material together with excellent thermal conductivity of thin walls allow heating the room with minimum energy consumption.
• The thickest branches from the water-carrying mains, and as decorative and protective elements, such as covers for semi-open wiring.

Material characteristics

General properties and production methods

Copper pipes have been utilized for communication systems for a considerable amount of time. This was brought about by both strong performance indicators and the comparatively simple metal processing process. Because of these combined properties, copper is still in use today, albeit not to the same extent as cast iron, steel, or technological polymers.

There are now two ways to produce pipes.

The highest quality and most widely used pipes are seamless, which are created in this manner:

• Copper bar is taken as a raw material. Usually it includes not only copper, but also various additives, providing an improvement in the performance characteristics of the finished product.
• Then the bar is heated, after which a hollow sleeve with sufficiently thick walls is formed from it on a piercing mill.
• After that, the sleeve is sent to the rolling mill, where round rollers process its surface, thinning the walls and passing the part through the calibrating die. The result is, for example, a copper pipe of 1 4 inches – depending on what cross-section was set in the machine setting and which billet was used.

Snapshot of the completed goods right out of the rolling device

Kindly take note! For parts with a big diameter, you can reheat the sleeve to make rolling easier. Consequently, in this instance, the part’s production costs rise.

Welded products are produced far less frequently. Here, a metal strip is used as a blank and is rolled into a tube around a predetermined-sized matrix. The seam is deburred and the strip’s edges are welded.

The characteristics of the material are mostly determined by further processing:

• More durable, but at the same time more rigid and less convenient for installation are not annealed pipes. After manufacturing, they are not subjected to temperature treatment, so that the internal structure of the metal remains unchanged.
• If the billets are annealed after production, the internal copper crystal lattice is partially modified. On the one hand, this results in a slight loss of strength and lower melting point, but on the other hand, the product becomes flexible, which greatly simplifies assembly.

Note: Annealed copper pipe measuring 5 8 inches (and occasionally larger cross-section pieces) can be provided in coils with a substantial meterage. Since bending the unannealed varieties can cause irreversible deformation, they are almost always supplied piece by piece.

Product annealed in a coil

Advantages

In the case of copper products, this is highly unlikely.

The following benefits of copper pipes should be highlighted:

• Firstly, the material is practically not subject to corrosion. Even with prolonged contact with the liquid in sufficiently harsh conditions (temperature fluctuations, salinity, presence of carbon dioxide), only a patina (characteristic green patina) may appear. The operational properties of the structure are not affected by this plaque.

Kindly take note! Experts advise against removing patina from areas that are out of our line of sight because it serves as an extra layer of protection because it is chemically inert. This is, of course, informal instruction, but it works wonders.

• Another plus is the smooth inner surface. Inside do not form build-up (as, for example, in cast-iron or steel products), and therefore even a fairly thin copper pipe 8mm retains its permeability throughout its entire life cycle.

Although it requires a lot of work to assemble, such a system is very dependable.

• The advantages include high plasticity with good heat resistance. It is for this reason that copper is used in various heat exchangers: the material is guaranteed not to melt (up to +2500C without signs of deformation withstands even the thinnest wall), and the flexibility allows you to design a fairly complex layout.
• Finally, to the pluses should be attributed and a wide range of assortment. You can choose a part for almost any task, since the list of available diameters is counted in more than a dozen values.

The cost is by far the biggest drawback for us if we discuss the drawbacks. Copper water pipes and copper heating pipes are not affordable options.

Nonetheless, this drawback is offset by strong performance and a lovely appearance. Thus, if you have the chance, pay once and stop worrying about how the system will work later.

Tools for work

When working with copper pipes, specialized tools are required.

Pipe cutters

They are required to cut pipes to the appropriate length. It should be noted that this tool works well not only with copper pipes but also with plastic, steel, and metal-plastic combinations. The pipe cutter guarantees that the cut is strictly perpendicular and that the desired result is achieved. When working with gaseous or other flammable materials, the tool is ideal because it eliminates the possibility of sparks starting a fire. The pipe cutter is very handy because it doesn’t require electricity to operate, which makes it useful in isolated locations without widespread electrification.

For copper pipes, there are two kinds of pipe cutters.

• Steel telescopic with bracket-shaped body – on one side of this tool there is a cutting roller and on the second side there is an axle carriage with several guides. The moment the handle is turned, the carriage starts to advance and thus clamp the pipe. After the pipe cutter is fully rotated around the screw axis, the cut is made, and if the pressure on the handle is increased at this point, the pipe section is cut off completely.
• With ratchet mechanism – purely visually such a pipe cutter is similar to scissors, and one part of them is made in the form of a C-shaped notch, and the other side is a cutting one. To cut the pipe, it is necessary to close the handle.

Pipe bender

Since the pipeline is a branching network made up of pipes in various sizes, as is common knowledge, using a pipe expander is crucial to the installation process. Without one, it is impossible to connect the various components using couplings or fittings. The product comes in two varieties: electric and manual. The former is best suited for small-scale tasks, while the latter is better suited for complex system installations.

To make the connection with fittings as convenient as possible, a pipe expander is used. It should be noted that some variations of pipes with varying diameters require the use of a separate expander; nevertheless, acquiring multiple pipe expanders is not necessary; having a stock of multiple heads with varying sizes will suffice.

Pipe bender

Pipe benders are used to bend pipes, as the name suggests.

The instrument may be manual or mechanical.

• Mechanical The pipe bender is made in the form of a hydraulic press. These options are optimal for larger jobs, as they provide more force than handheld models. The components of the pipe bender are a hydraulic cylinder, frame, pump, rollers for fixing the pipe, interchangeable nozzles of different sizes and control knobs. In order to reduce the possibility of overheating, a special relay is installed. Such a press is mounted on a solid base. Its weight, depending on the working capacity, can vary from 29 to 129 kg. Pipe bender is widely used both in industry and at home.

• But for small works it is suitable and manual tool, it allows you to bend the pipes 90 degrees. This option is optimal for working in tight spaces and at height.

Press jaws

Press fittings can be clamped using this steel tool. The basic idea is as follows: the fitting is clamped by the contour, and other areas create recesses.

It is crucial to pay close attention to the marking when purchasing this tool, as it provides evidence of adherence to the relevant quality systems. It should be noted that while the product may have varying crimping profiles, this has no bearing whatsoever on the fixation’s strength and dependability.

You will also require a clamp, a soldering iron, and a trimmer in order to work with all kinds of copper pipes.

Fittings for connecting copper pipelines

The shaped components known as copper fittings are used to join different pipeline sections to one another. The following configurations are available for copper pipe fittings:

• parallel couplings;
• tees;
• Angles (at 45 and 90 degrees);
• crosses.

Different copper fitting types

The copper fittings mentioned above can be either transitional, which connects pipeline sections of varying sizes, or one-size, which joins pipes of the same diameter.

Solder fittings

Capillary joints are joints intended for soldering. A thin layer of tin solder covers their inner walls; the molten solder fills the spaces between the connecting products’ walls and, upon solidification, firmly binds them together.

Among the high-quality soldering supplies are fittings from Sanha. This company uses CW024A grade alloy to manufacture copper fittings in all common sizes in compliance with German quality standards. Connections are capable of withstanding operating temperatures up to 110 degrees Celsius and pressures between 16 and 40 bar.

Soldering copper pipelines together is a relatively easy technology to use:

1. The mating surfaces of pipes and fittings are cleaned of dirt, degreased and treated with fine-grained sandpaper.
2. A layer of low-temperature flux up to 1 mm thick is applied to the pipe walls.
3. Connecting elements are joined together, after which the joint is heated with a thermofan or a gas torch up to temperature 4000 for 10-15 seconds.
4. The joint is allowed to cool down, after which the flux residue is cleaned with a rag.

Soldering technique for copper pipes

Because the melting of solder and flux releases gases that are toxic to the body, soldering should only be done in a ventilated room.

Collet joints

Copper pipe collet fittings, also known as compression fittings, provide a detachable and easily maintained connection. Two categories comprise all collet fittings:

• "A" is for solid and semi-solid copper products;
• "B" – for soft copper pipes.

The class "B" fittings are different in that the connected pipeline sections are mounted on an internal sleeve, or socket. During crimping, the socket serves as a supporting component to keep the copper walls from deforming.

Copper fitting for compression

Technology for installing connections:

1. The pipe is fitted with a union nut and a split ring.
2. The ring is placed at a distance of 1 cm from the cutoff.
3. The pipe is put on the fitting"s socket.
4. The union nut is screwed on manually up to the stop, and then it is pulled out with the help of an adjustable or horn wrench.

Press connection

Comprise a body, a socket, and a crimping sleeve for copper pipes. Their installation is quick and easy: the pipeline’s mating sections are inserted into the fitting’s socket, and then the sleeve is crimped using press jaws. This instrument can be purchased for up to 3,000 rubles or rented from a plumbing supply store.

Unlike a collet joint, which requires maintenance, this connection can be disassembled without compromising the fitting’s integrity. The connection element needs to be changed if there are leaks. Keep in mind that press fittings, with a 30-year service life, are the most dependable and long-lasting.

Other similar articles on the topic:

An understanding of copper pipes is essential when it comes to insulation and heating for your house. These pipes are available in different varieties, each with a distinct function, such as distributing gas or transporting hot water. Selecting the one that best suits your needs is made easier by being aware of their distinctions. It is essential to adhere to the correct procedures during installation in order to guarantee both efficiency and safety. Every stage, from cutting and measuring to soldering and securing, is essential. Knowing the fundamentals of copper pipe types and installation techniques will enable you to make well-informed decisions for a warm and well-insulated home, whether you’re a do-it-yourselfer or you hire professionals.

Fittings for copper pipe products

Crimp or solder type fittings are used in the laying of copper pipelines. The first kind of connecting components is typically composed of brass. A crimp ring, which is tightened with a wrench, is present inside the fitting to guarantee the tightness of this type of joint. When connecting pipes with varying diameters in a pipeline installation, crimp fittings are utilized, as long as access is available to verify the tightness (further information: "").

These components are typically utilized when laying a pipeline that is intended to be used in low-pressure operation, where the working medium passes through it. The condition of the fittings must be periodically checked in order for the pipeline to function properly.

The following order is followed when carrying out the connection process:

1. The fitting is disassembled into its component parts.
2. The clamping nut and crimp ring are placed on the pipe.
3. Insert the end of the pipe with the ring and nut into the fitting.
4. The nut is fixed up to the stop, and the cone-shaped ring should be inserted into the cone part without distortion.
5. The nut is tightened with a wrench by 0.5-1.25 turns – which depends on the diameter of the pipe used.

The most important thing to remember when doing the work is not to overdo it, as this could cause damage to the pipe product wall.

The type of connection mentioned above cannot be regarded as perfect because crimp fittings frequently leak, so it is important to regularly check their condition.

Their advantages and disadvantages

Given the superior qualities of copper, why do consumers in the construction industry tend to purchase plastic and metal products when building plumbing and heating systems?

The primary myths that cause consumers to decline to purchase them are as follows:

• comparative costliness of materials;
• Difficulty of installation (it is necessary to solder the joints).

Nonetheless, there are several benefits to these pipes:

• high quality of the material;
• has a high coefficient of thermal conductivity (applies specifically to non-insulated samples);
• ease of reaming;
• does not corrode and does not react to temperature fluctuations;
• lends itself well to soldering;
• can withstand high pressure;
• are reliable with their plasticity.
• buying non-insulated pipes can be noted that their price is lower than plastic or steel samples of the same diameter;
• Welding for connection is not expensive;
• there is an opportunity to make any kind of wiring due to the large variety of copper fittings;
• heating can last more than 50 years without repair;
• plastic material at high pressures can be deformed without rupture;
• can work effectively at temperatures up to + 250°C.

Because of this, it makes perfect sense for copper products to be expensive. Customers steer clear of such pipes and fittings due to concerns about the intricacy and accuracy of their installation (soldering), in addition to price policies.

Buyers claim that soldering copper heating systems on your own without specific skills is extremely difficult. See the video lessons below for correct soldering techniques.

Strengths and weaknesses of copper plumbing

In terms of strength and temperature characteristics, copper pipes are comparable to those of their closest rivals, steel communications. Nonetheless, because of its special qualities, copper is favored.

Resistance to corrosion. The primary justification for copper plumbing may be its resistance to rust. This characteristic reduces the detrimental effect on plumbing appliances and explains why engineering networks can operate continuously for extended periods of time.

Copper fittings require less material than steel products because they don’t require the installation of pipes with thick walls as a safety precaution against corrosive processes.

Dependability. This characteristic accounts for several noteworthy operational benefits of copper pipework:

• the malleability of the material in processing – pipes can be bent to create complex main networks using hand tools;
• Form retention – a property that soft polymer products cannot boast of;
• the possibility of using connecting fittings;
• increased resistance to hydro-impacts – the destructive pressure indicator allows you not to fear for the integrity of the system at "surges" of water pressure;
• probability of deformation without mechanical degradation;
• Temperature fluctuations do not cause changes in linear parameters;
• Withstands freeze/thaw cycles with preserved integrity.

Smoothness of the surface. historical justification for copper water pipes. Because of the material’s high homogeneity, a perfectly even coating is produced, which weakens the metal’s molecular bonds and inhibits the production of oxides and salts.

Copper pipes have a low coefficient of friction, making them more suitable for use in water supply networks than steel or plastic pipes, even with smaller diameters. Because there are no deposits building up on the inside walls, the flow capacity does not gradually decline.

Reluctance to react chemically. Interactions with diluted non-oxidizing acids, salt solutions, and formalion do not destroy copper. Chlorine does not produce oxides that are harmful to people.

The ability to kill bacteria. Because of the antibacterial qualities of copper alloy, water that circulates through pipes is somewhat disinfected. Another benefit is that there are no microbial colonies growing on the walls.

UV radiation immunity. Contrary to communications made of thermoplastic polymers, copper does not change when exposed to UV light.

The copper circuit in the bathroom is a unique feature of the interior design and a reliable indicator of the home’s wealth. Metal piping requires little upkeep and doesn’t need to be painted on a regular basis.

Copper alloy pipes have a slightly lower weight than their steel equivalents in addition to having good strength. They are now simpler to install and transport as a result. The ability to utilize copper pipe for multiple purposes is an undeniable benefit.

Among the drawbacks of copper water pipelines are:

1. High price. When compared to the cost of analogues, copper products lose out. Arrangement of the network from "yellow" metal will cost several times more expensive than the installation of plastic or steel mains.
2. Labor-intensive installation. Technologies of docking copper fittings (assembly on fittings or soldering) – quite complex processes that require skills of work.
3. Acid intolerance. It is not possible to use copper pipes for transportation of acidic medium with pH level more than 9. Water with this indicator is unsuitable for drinking.
4. thermal conductivity. The parameter is 1.7 times higher than the indicator of aluminum products and almost six times higher than the thermal conductivity of steel. When transporting hot medium, the pipe heats up – heat losses increase and there is a risk of burns. In cold water supply systems, condensation forms on the pipeline.

One possible solution to the issue is to apply a polyethylene or PVC coating. In addition to preventing condensation and "cooling" the surface, the outer sleeve lowers noise and maintains the temperature of the transported medium.

Because polyethylene insulation has air channels, it somewhat lessens the degree of temperature deformation of the pipe; therefore, it is best suited for use in locations with few connections. For heating and DHW networks, foam "shell" (soft polyurethane foam, synthetic rubber) is appropriate.

The electrical conductivity of rolled copper is also thought to be a drawback, as is its incompatibility with steel and aluminum components of water pipes. It is important to properly ground the equipment during installation to reduce the risk of electric shock.

2 Advantages of copper pipes over plastic pipes

Even with its lengthy history, sanitary copper pipe is still able to successfully compete in the market with contemporary products, such as plastic and metal-plastic water pipeline products. It is clearly better than them in a lot of ways:

• Copper is impervious to foul-smelling, harmful substances and even oxygen.
• Copper pipe, unlike plastic pipes, is not susceptible to the damaging effects of chlorine found in tap water. More chlorine-resistant plastic pipes are supplied exclusively to the US market, where water is chlorinated similarly to Russia. The cost of such products is not less than copper. In Europe, the requirements for chlorine content are much lower, so plastic for low chlorinated water complying with the European standard is common in the domestic market.
• Chlorine, being a strong oxidizing agent, promotes the formation of patina on the inner surface of the copper pipe – a strong, thin protective layer. Thanks to this, the service life of the pipeline is significantly extended.
• Resistant to ultraviolet radiation. Plastic under the influence of sunlight vaporizes.
• Slight roughness coefficient, lower than that of plastic pipes, which allows the use of smaller diameter copper products under the same conditions. This is possible, among other things, due to the absence of overgrowth of the walls with microorganisms colonies and corrosion products.
• Much better able to cope with prolonged heat loads.
• According to studies, plastic pipelines have the least reliable fittings and connection points. The opposite is true for copper – these elements of the system are the most reliable ones.
• The quality of copper is almost stable and the same in different manufacturers, which is not characteristic of products made of plastic (there are many counterfeit products of dubious quality in the consumer market).
• Characterized by antibacterial properties (pathogenic flora is suppressed). Plastic pipes release low molecular weight organics, and the walls will biofilm over time.
• It is characterized by a very long service life: it does not deteriorate, does not age and retains its original strength. Pipes and fittings made of copper are used without replacement as long as the building itself. Plastic products, with the existing technologies, can not yet occupy the niche of durable and high-quality pipelines.

Characteristics of copper

Copper (Cu, cuprum) is distinguished by its golden-pink color. When exposed to carbon dioxide and moisture, it first takes on an intense yellow-red color before developing a greenish-blue patina over time.

As an aside! In addition to lending copper goods a sense of regal, aristocratic antiquity, patina serves as a protective coating. Peeling it off is therefore not advised.

Copper’s primary chemical and physical properties are as follows:

• High thermal conductivity.
• Malleability and ductility.
• Melting point – 1083⁰C.
• Corrosion free.
• High coefficient of electrical conductivity (2nd place among metals) and low electrical resistance.
• Inertness against most substances, fungi, mold, virus and various bacteria.
• Resistance to ultraviolet radiation.

Installation of copper heating pipes

Two types of joints are used when assembling the pipeline: fittings and welding. Through collapsible or press fittings pipes are connected to heating devices. It is also possible to install for connecting/branching pipes, but welding is more often used for these purposes. When using annealed pipes, they can be bent in the right places, reducing the number of joints. To bend the pipe use a special device pipe bender, which allows to obtain different angles without reducing the pipe lumen and without impairing the system"s permeability. It is almost impossible to bend copper pipes by hand: although the material is plastic, but it is impossible to bend it manually without reducing the lumen. So it is better not to use this method.

Copper pipes must be bent with specialized tools; bending them by hand reduces the pipe’s lumen and exacerbates circulation problems.

No special tools are needed for installation crimp fittings; the pipe is simply inserted into the slot up to the stop and the nut tightened, pressing the pipe material against the fitting body. For a snug fit, two wrenches might be required; tighten until the seal is entirely sealed. All of the necessary equipment is this. However, because of their specificity, crimped connections must be constantly controlled tight because they periodically start to "drip." For this reason, bricking up such joints is not recommended.

Press fittings are installed with the assistance of specialized press machines. Even with the rental, they are not inexpensive. However, it turns out that while the bond is strong and dependable, it is not unbreakable.

More universal and reliable is considered capillary soldering. Pipe sections of the same diameter can be joined directly in this way: one of the welded ends is flared – the diameter is slightly increased so that the pipes can be inserted one into the other. For this purpose, a special device is used. The place of connection is cleaned with a metal brush or special sponges (available on sale). After the joining surfaces are treated with flux – a special composition that improves the "adhesion" of the metal with solder. The treated pipes are inserted one into the other. The gap between them should be minimal – a fraction of a millimeter. Then the joint is heated with a welding torch. When the material is heated to the melting point of the solder, it is brought into the flame and the molten composition is poured into the existing gaps. After the joint is filled, it is cooled down. You can just leave it in the air until it cools down, or you can dip it in water. In principle, the process is not very complicated, but it requires experience, skill and careful execution: both reaming and the filling process itself require precision and accuracy. According to the same scheme soldered connections with special copper fittings for soldering.

This video does a good job of explaining how to solder a copper pipe and matching fitting. However, since the pipe is meant to be used in a water supply system, tin is used instead of solder. Use alternative compositions with a melting point of at least 115oC when heating. The remaining steps are the same.

1 Copper pipes for water pipes technological features and advantages

First of all, the strength of copper pipes makes them appealing for water supply applications. Solid goods with a 12 mm diameter and a 1 mm wall thickness are intended to operate at 250 °C and 100 bar of working pressure. Fittings made of copper pipe that have been assembled using hard solder are capable of withstanding temperatures as high as 600 °C and maximum loads exceeding 500 atm. Lower temperatures cause many materials to become brittle. One exception is copper, which becomes more ductile and strong as the temperature drops.

This characteristic allows copper pipes to be frozen and thawed up to three times, depending on the product’s hardness. Unlike steel pipelines, where a rupture spreads throughout the entire pipe, even a failure occurs only once. As a result, it is not too difficult to eliminate the effects of copper product freezing, but replacing the steel system entirely is necessary.

When installing equipment, mounting a branch on an already-completed pipeline, passing through holes, navigating corners, and other obstacles, copper pipes are highly technologically advanced and easy to machine. Every task requires basic hand and mechanized tools.

Copper systems are used for all kinds of engineering communications; pipes and fittings of the same standard are used. This guarantees that the same tools and installation techniques are used. Capillary brazing is the most popular and dependable technique for joining copper pipes. Even with tiny diameters, the soldering width is always at least 7 mm, providing a mounting strength that surpasses that of established joining techniques, such as welding of any kind.

The pipe body consistently ruptured during the tests, and none of the joints—including the ones that needed to be serviced—had a broken tightness. Installation is made simple and quick with capillary soldering. When compared to welding, which necessitates more caution and attention when working with plastic pipes or large equipment when working with steel systems, its benefits become especially clear.

Apart from highly durable and reliable connections (such as pressing, soldering, and welding), there are also connections that don’t need specific knowledge or equipment. These include connections made in non-pressurized systems (such as self-fixing, compression, etc.) and connections made with fittings for fast installation in the event of an emergency. The installer can now operate swiftly and freely as a result. Cutting threads on copper pipes is prohibited, but combined fittings enable a straightforward transition to threads through soldering or pressing.

Copper’s ductility allows for the capillary soldering of pipe connections without the need for fittings or manual or mechanical expanders. This allows for a possible (and in some cases significant) reduction in system installation costs. The system’s dependability and parameter stability are ensured by the fitting connection method.

If you use products in insulation, corrugated pipe, sheathing, where thermal expansion due to temperature fluctuations of the water supply is provided, or mounted in a box, copper piping can be embedded in walls and floors. Without access, serviced joints might not be able to be sealed. Open-laying copper pipes have a very nice appearance, are paintable, and need to be arranged to reduce the possibility of unintentional damage.

Copper plumbing systems

Not only is copper a resilient and ductile metal, but it also resists microbial growth and lime deposition. Copper is not prone to corrosion. Among other metals, its strength and ease of processing have made it the most widely used.

A coil of copper pipe

Copper pipelines

Standard copper pipes have thin walls, which facilitates easy bending. Cutting and bending requires the use of specialized instruments that don’t crush the pipe and give you a smooth, edge-free cut. For hot water pipelines, copper pipes and fittings are recommended due to their unique resistance to high temperatures.

Because of this metal’s exceptional thermal conductivity, the tube is extremely hot on the outside. These communications have to be installed in special boxes or covered with a casing. The water pipe is also a very fashionable interior feature, and it has a very pleasing appearance.

Fittings for copper pipelines

Copper pipes can be fitted with a variety of fittings, including brass fittings. Connecting elements can be fastened in a variety of ways, depending on the material that was used to make them.

It goes without saying that fittings and pipes connected by welding ought to be composed of the same material. Certain skills, solder, flux, and specialized equipment are needed for installation work.

Crimp systems work under the assumption that the fittings are composed of copper, which is a sufficiently ductile material. Furthermore, the occurrence of leaks and gaps is eliminated because of the identical coefficients of thermal expansion.

Brass fittings come with collet fasteners, which are widely used and equally effective in copper and metal-plastic pipelines. Brass is an alloy consisting of at least 60% copper and zinc, strengthened by the addition of nickel, lead, iron, and other alloying ingredients. If the tube only needs to be smoothly cut for welded and crimped connections, then an external thread is necessary for collet connections. This presupposes that copper pipes will have thicker walls.

The collet fitting’s design

When it comes to installation, threaded fittings are the most convenient choice. Brass or copper fittings can be used; no special guidelines are needed in this case.

Using an internal thread, tap

Pro et contra

Let us now attempt to evaluate copper in the context of competing solutions.

Advantages

Great service life. As I have previously stated, the manufacturers’ 50–70 year warranty is, for once, an optimistic evaluation of the material’s durability. In actuality, changes to the house layout will be the only time copper water pipes assembled on solder fittings need to be replaced.

Withstands the water hammer. More than 200 atmospheres of destructive pressure means that one need not fear the unpredictability of the water supply parameters. Comparatively, metal-plastic and polypropylene break at 15 to 25 kgf/cm2 (first on hot water).

Effects of water hammer on plastics made of metal.

Resistance to changes in temperature. You need not worry about the water supply overheating in the event that a negligent plumber forgets to switch the HTW to the return water supply during the coldest part of the year. Copper is perfectly safe to have its maximum temperature of 150 C set for heat pipes.

Friendliness toward the environment. Copper doesn’t release any toxic substances into the water and has a bactericidal effect.

Sub-zero temperature plasticity. It permits multiple freezing and defrosting cycles to occur without causing damage to the water supply system. In such circumstances, the longitudinal weld seam of the steel VGP pipes tears.

The water pipe’s walls are free of deposits and resistant to corrosion. The lumen of any old steel-piped HTW water pipe has grown increasingly narrow, as anyone who has ever opened one will attest.

Normal state of an HTW steel pipe.

Disadvantages

Sadly, they are not absent:

• Copper does not like acidic media. It should not be used to supply water with a pH above 9;

Even so, this water is not fit for human consumption.

• Copper forms galvanic pairs with aluminum and, to a lesser extent, steel. When metals are connected in one circuit, a constant weak current between them, ion migration occurs, significantly reducing the service life of the water pipe;

Galvanic corrosion can occur without external current sources.

• Copper is exceptionally heat conductive, which means fast cooling in hot water pipes and constant cooling in domestic hot water pipes;
• Finally, the price of copper pipe is significantly higher than the cost of the same polypropylene or metal plastic. I will quote an excerpt from the current June 2016 price list of a Russian online store:

Size	Cost per linear meter, rubles (retail)
12х1	286
15х1	343
18х1	432
22х1	539

3 Copper and its advantages over steel

Given that both steel and copper are made of metal, their strengths and temperatures are comparable in water supply pipes. Products made of copper have the following benefits:

• Have high corrosion resistance, which, combined with the strength of connections provides copper pipelines service longer than that of steel, 2-3 times, with much higher indicators of operational reliability.
• Steel pipes are more material-intensive, because when using them, it is necessary to provide for a reserve of wall thickness for corrosion.
• Cold-drawn copper products have a very smooth inner surface, not overgrown with corrosion products – you can use pipes with a smaller diameter than steel.
• Fittings and joints in copper systems are sealed and more reliable than the pipes themselves. In steel – any non-welded joints are serviceable.
• In copper pipelines absolutely all existing connection methods are used, including the most modern ones. This gives a significant technological advantage during installation or repair.
• Copper has a high ductility, which allows any mechanical processing right at the installation site, including with the use of hand tools. No need for bulky welding equipment.

Basic values for measuring pipes

Experts differentiate between copper pipe diameters:

• nominal;
• internal;
• outer.

Additionally, general notions like "wall thickness" and "nominal bore" exist. It is said that the product is "thick-walled" or "thin-walled" without providing the dimensions. Copper pipes must be marked with their diameters in both millimeters and inches.

1. Wall thickness of the product, the value is indicated in "mm", the parameters are related to the volume of the passing substance and its pressure. The difference between the inner and outer diameter remains an essential indicator.
2. For a quality connection of the main line through fittings is important conditional passage – the inner lumen of the product, for its designation also use millimeters. On imported products of non-ferrous metals it is indicated in inches, which requires translation into "our" values.
3. Internal diameter – the main indicator of the permeability of the pipeline (mm), it is used for calculations in formulas.
4. Outer diameter – important for the classification of products (large, medium and small), denoted in "mm" in all tables.
5. Nominal diameter – approximately the same as "nominal bore", but is labeled with a precise value.

The pipe size can be roughly determined with a ruler.

Take note! A tape measure or centimeter tape can provide approximate values; a caliper and measuring tools can provide exact values. The materials used to make domestic and main water pipes nowadays are restricted to the following list:

The materials used to make domestic and main water pipes nowadays are restricted to the following list:

• steel;
• plastic, metal plastic;
• aluminum, copper, other light alloys.

Certain copper pipe sizes, like "inch" and "half-inch" sizes, are expressed in inches. This indicates that the inner diameter is given as either 1 inch or ½ inch, or 25.4 and 12.7 mm, respectively. Experts in trunk line installation take note of these values in order to determine the copper pipe’s size:

• couplings;
• tees;
• fittings with threaded connections.

Dimensions for pipe fittings are also provided; these are displayed on the exterior of the component.

3 Disadvantages of copper pipes for heating systems

We should start with the main "disadvantage" of copper pipe – the very high cost of the. Indeed, copper is expensive. Pipe made from it is significantly more expensive than products made from other materials. But it should be noted that due to the ability to produce thin-walled, and therefore very light, copper pipes the cost of them is not so great (the price is formed on the basis of the weight of a unit of metal products). At the same time, if the copper pipe is more expensive than polypropylene in 2-4 times, copper fittings are cheaper than plastic fittings by 30-50 times. Due to the branching of in-house systems, the total cost of installing heating from polypropylene and copper pipes will be comparable, and in some cases copper may be a less expensive option.

A system composed of copper products, especially soldered together, will always be less expensive in the case of metal-plastic pipes. Polypropylene or metal-plastic pipes will be preferred due to their superior quality and tangible advantage over copper when it comes to heating costs. We also cannot overlook the extremely low operating costs of copper systems, which are orders of magnitude less expensive than those made of plastic. Moreover, the cost of the material is recouped when disposing of copper piping that is no longer in use.

The current drawbacks can be ascribed to:

• Relatively complex installation – to perform a quality assembly of the system requires extensive experience in brazing copper pipes.
• It is forbidden to install after copper products in the direction of the coolant flow elements made of steel, aluminum, zinc to prevent corrosion processes in the latter.
• In case of monolithic laying of the pipeline inside the wall it is necessary to use copper pipes in a plastic sheath that protects from damage and serves as a thermal insulation layer (or make appropriate protection of existing pipes without coating). The problem is the following: building mixtures in relation to copper can be aggressive compositions that cause corrosion; even in case of minimal thermal expansion of the pipe there is its interaction with hard abrasive fractions of building materials.
• Limitation of the coolant flow velocity – recommended up to 0.5 m/s (is optimal for a long service life of the system).
• Piping is required to protect from embezzlers of non-ferrous metal – lock the building attics and basements, exclude access to copper risers.
• Due to the high thermal conductivity of the heating system sections located outside the heated rooms should be insulated with plastic covers to reduce heat losses.

Copper pipes are the most appropriate product for the transportation of heat transfer medium, despite their drawbacks. They are widely used. Their heating systems are dependable and incredibly efficient. Copper pipes are a fantastic substitute for steel and plastic goods.

Types of copper pipes

Thick-walled and thin-walled copper pipes are the two main categories. Higher strength characteristics are found in pipes that belong to the first group. They are made using welded and seamless techniques.

The second group of pipes has found use in the manufacturing of automobiles, ships, and aircraft, among other applications where communication systems need to be strong and light. Copper pipes can have square, rectangular, or round cross sections. Heating systems typically do not use profile pipes.

The cross-section of thick-walled pipes is round, and their wall thickness ranges from 0.8 to 10 mm. They are produced using a variety of copper grades, including M1, Mr3, Mr1, and others. The alloy’s level of purity is indicated by the numerical index in this case. It makes no difference to the pipe’s inherent properties. The wall thickness of thin-walled pipes ranges from 0.15 to 0.7 mm.

For your home’s heating and insulation requirements, selecting the appropriate copper pipes is essential to guaranteeing longevity and efficiency. It’s important to take corrosion resistance, flexibility, and durability into account when choosing from the many types that are available, including rigid and flexible options.

The performance of copper pipes is greatly influenced by the installation procedure after the proper type has been chosen. Leak prevention and secure connections are ensured by using appropriate installation techniques, such as compression fittings or soldering. Insulating the pipes also aids in preventing heat loss and maintaining constant temperatures, which ultimately saves energy and lowers utility costs.

To guarantee compliance and safety when installing copper pipes, it’s critical to adhere to local building codes and regulations. You can ensure that the installation is done correctly and have peace of mind by hiring a qualified professional. They can handle any obstacles that come up during the installation process because they have the knowledge and experience to do so.

Your copper piping system needs to be regularly maintained and inspected in order to detect problems early and avoid future, expensive repairs. Making sure your heating system is leak-free, corrosion-free, and properly insulated will help it continue to work well for many years to come.

In conclusion, maintaining an effective and dependable heating and insulation system for your home requires choosing the appropriate copper pipes and making sure they are installed correctly. Through knowledge of the various types of copper pipes that are available and adherence to best practices during installation, you can optimize energy efficiency, minimize utility expenses, and relish a cozy living space.

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