Copper Pipes & Tubes: ASTM B88, EN 1057
Copper Tubes
What Are Copper Tubes?
copper pipes ASTM B88 longCopper also has natural antimicrobial properties, which has driven its adoption in potable water systems. Copper tubes are manufactured in a range of sizes and grades to match specific pressure ratings and service conditions.
Typical Applications in Plumbing
Copper tubes and pipes have long been a standard material in plumbing systems. The table below summarizes the most common plumbing applications:
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Potable Water Supply | Copper pipes carry drinking water in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. The material does not react with water or leach harmful substances into the supply. Copper’s antimicrobial surface also limits bacterial growth, which is why it remains a preferred choice for drinking water systems. |
| Hot and Cold Water Distribution | Copper retains its mechanical strength at elevated temperatures, so it handles both hot and cold water distribution without degradation. Performance remains consistent across a wide range of operating temperatures. |
| Plumbing Fixtures and Fittings | Copper tubes connect sinks, faucets, showers, and toilets. They form secure, leak-resistant joints that maintain system integrity over decades of service. |
| Underground Water Lines | Copper pipes are frequently buried for water supply lines in residential, commercial, and municipal systems. Their corrosion resistance and mechanical toughness give them a long service life in underground installations. |
| Recirculating Hot Water Systems | In recirculating systems, copper tubes move hot water from the heater to fixtures with minimal delay. Copper’s thermal conductivity promotes efficient heat transfer, which reduces wait times and lowers energy consumption. |
| Fire Sprinkler Systems | Copper pipes serve in fire sprinkler systems because of their heat resistance and mechanical reliability. They deliver water rapidly during a fire event to suppress flames and protect structures. |
| Solar Water Heating Systems | Copper tubes are a preferred material in solar water heating panels. Their high thermal conductivity transfers solar energy to water efficiently, and their corrosion resistance extends system life. |
Applications In The Oil & Gas Industry
Copper tubes and pipes have limited use in the oil and gas sector compared to carbon steel, alloy steel, stainless steel, and nickel alloys.
That said, copper fills specific niches where its thermal conductivity, corrosion resistance, or malleability gives it an edge over steel alternatives:
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Heat Exchangers | Copper tubes handle cooling and heating duties in refinery and petrochemical heat exchangers. Their thermal conductivity delivers efficient heat transfer in condensers and evaporators. |
| Instrumentation and Control Lines | Small-diameter copper tubes carry sensitive fluids or gases in instrumentation systems at processing facilities. Copper’s corrosion resistance and ease of bending simplify routing in tight spaces. |
| Hydraulic Systems | Certain hydraulic control systems for valves and actuators use copper tubes where corrosion resistance and heat dissipation matter. |
| Chemical Injection Lines | Copper tubes occasionally serve as chemical injection lines on offshore platforms and production facilities. Their compatibility with corrosion inhibitors, biocides, and other treatment chemicals makes them a practical option for wellhead and pipeline injection points. |
| Subsea Equipment | In some subsea applications, copper tubes appear in specific instrumentation or control components. Copper resists seawater corrosion and tolerates the high pressures and temperatures found in subsea service. |
| Small-Diameter Tubing | Copper tubes work well for auxiliary systems and sample lines where light weight and straightforward installation are priorities. They handle low-pressure gas lines and laboratory sample lines at oil and gas facilities. |
While copper tubes are far less common than steel in oil and gas service, they remain valuable in specific processes where their properties outperform alternatives. Each application should be evaluated on its own merits to confirm copper is the right material choice.
The Exceptional Properties of Copper
Copper is a versatile metal with a combination of physical and chemical properties that make it well-suited for tube manufacturing.
Electrolytic copper cathodes 99.99%The key properties relevant to copper tube applications are:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Excellent Conductivity | Copper ranks among the most conductive metals, both electrically and thermally. This makes copper tubes highly efficient at transporting fluids and transferring heat in HVAC and refrigeration systems. |
| Corrosion Resistance | Copper resists corrosion well, particularly in natural environments. This characteristic gives copper tubes long service lives in plumbing systems, where continuous water exposure would degrade lesser materials. |
| Malleability and Ductility | Copper bends, shapes, and forms readily without cracking. Fabricators can produce copper tubes in complex configurations, which simplifies installation in tight or irregular plumbing and HVAC layouts. |
| High Strength | Despite its malleability, copper has good tensile strength. Copper tubes handle internal pressure and external loads without deforming or rupturing under normal operating conditions. |
| Antimicrobial Properties | Copper surfaces naturally inhibit bacterial, viral, and fungal growth. This property matters most in potable water systems and medical gas pipelines, where hygiene standards are strict. |
| Durability | Copper resists wear, abrasion, and fatigue. Copper tubes withstand high temperatures, pressure fluctuations, and mechanical stresses over long service periods without significant degradation. |
| Compatibility | Copper works well with the solders, fluxes, sealants, and insulation materials common in plumbing and HVAC work. This broad compatibility reduces the risk of joint failures and leaks. |
| Recyclability | Virtually all scrap copper can be recovered and reused. This recyclability reduces raw material demand and waste during manufacturing. |
Taken together, these properties (conductivity, corrosion resistance, malleability, strength, antimicrobial action, durability, compatibility, and recyclability) explain why copper remains a primary material for tubes in plumbing, HVAC, refrigeration, and industrial service.
Specifications for Copper Tubes
ASTM Specification for Copper Tubes
Copper tubes serve plumbing, HVAC, and industrial systems across North America under ASTM standards. The principal American specifications are:
| ASTM Standard | Description | Common Alloys |
|---|---|---|
| B88/B88M - Seamless Copper Water Tube | Covers seamless copper water tubes for general plumbing, heating, and cooling. This standard classifies tubes by nominal size, wall thickness, and temper. Types K, L, and M are the primary classifications: Type K has the thickest walls and Type M the thinnest. | C12200 (DHP), C10200 (OF), C11000 (ETP) |
| B280 - Seamless Copper Tube for Air Conditioning and Refrigeration | Covers seamless copper tubes in straight lengths for distributing refrigerants and other gases in HVAC field service. | C12200 (DHP), C12000 (DLP) |
| B306 - Copper Drainage Tube (DWV) | Covers seamless copper drainage tubes for gravity drainage systems in residential and commercial buildings. | C12200 (DHP), C10100 (OFE) |
| B837 - Seamless Copper Tube for Natural Gas and LP Gas | Covers seamless copper tubes rated for natural gas and LP gas fuel distribution pressures and conditions. | C12200 (DHP), C10100 (OFE) |
| B819 - Seamless Copper Tube for Medical Gas Systems | Covers seamless copper tubes for distributing medical gases (oxygen, nitrogen, etc.) in healthcare facilities. | C12200 (DHP), C10100 (OFE) |
| B743 - Seamless Copper Tube in Coils | Covers seamless copper tubes in coils for general engineering purposes where continuous lengths of tubing are needed. | - |
These standards classify copper tubes into three main types (K, L, and M), each serving different pressure and application demands, from residential through commercial and industrial settings.
Types Of Copper Tubes By ASTM B88: K, L, M, DMW
Copper tubes for plumbing, heating, and cooling fall into three types based on wall thickness and intended service: Type K, L, and M.
Type K copper tubes
Type K has the thickest walls of the three and handles the highest pressures. It is the standard choice for underground installations such as main water service lines, and for commercial or industrial settings where the tube faces aggressive soil conditions or must carry fluids at elevated pressures.
Type L copper tubes
Type L offers a middle ground between wall thickness and workability. It is the most common choice for residential and commercial plumbing, heating systems, potable water distribution, and fire sprinkler systems. Its moderate wall thickness provides solid pressure resistance for both indoor and outdoor installations.
Type M copper tubes
Type M has the thinnest walls and is primarily used for indoor water service at lower pressures, such as domestic water distribution in homes. It is the most economical option. Despite its thinner walls, Type M still provides reliable, durable service for water transport, but it should not be used for exterior applications or where mechanical stress and high pressures are expected.
DMW copper tubes
DWV copper tubes are manufactured specifically for use in drainage, waste, and vent (DWV) systems. These systems handle wastewater and sewage removal from buildings while providing ventilation to prevent harmful gas buildup.
Key features of DWV copper tubes:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Seamless Construction | DWV copper tubes are manufactured seamless, which provides uniform wall thickness and structural reliability. |
| Standardized Dimensions | They conform to ASTM B306 (US) and EN 1057 (Europe), which define sizes, tolerances, and wall thicknesses for DWV applications. |
| Corrosion Resistance | Like other copper tubes, DWV grades resist corrosion from moisture and chemical exposure typical of drainage service. |
| Smooth Interior | The smooth bore promotes efficient flow and resists clog formation within the drainage system. |
| Compatibility | DWV copper tubes accept soldered, brazed, or mechanical connections, providing leak-resistant joints throughout the system. |
| Code Compliance | DWV copper tubes meet the building codes and plumbing standards that govern drainage installations. |
DWV copper tubes are used in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings for soil stacks, waste stacks, branch drains, and vent pipes. They play a key role in maintaining sanitary conditions by efficiently removing wastewater and ventilating the plumbing system.
Each type is selected based on the project’s specific needs: expected water pressure, the installation environment, and the required durability. Knowing the differences between Types K, L, and M helps engineers and plumbers match the tube to the application, which directly affects system life and reliability.
Common ASTM Material Grades for Copper Tubes
| Grade | Description | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|
| C12200 (Phosphorus-Deoxidized Copper or DHP) | A high-purity copper alloy with small phosphorus additions as a deoxidizer. Offers strong corrosion resistance and thermal conductivity. | Plumbing systems, HVAC components, heat exchangers, and electrical applications. |
| C10200 (Oxygen-Free Copper or OF) | A high-purity copper alloy with low oxygen content and exceptional electrical conductivity. | Electrical and electronic applications: wiring, busbars, electrical contacts, vacuum tubes, microwave tubes, and semiconductor manufacturing. |
| C11000 (Electrolytic Tough Pitch Copper or ETP) | A commercially pure copper alloy with high conductivity and good mechanical properties. | Electrical applications (wiring, busbars, transformers, conductors), plumbing systems, heat exchangers, and architectural applications. |
| C12000 (DLP Copper) | A commercially pure copper alloy with high electrical conductivity. | Electrical connectors, terminals, printed circuit boards (PCBs), plumbing systems, HVAC components, and heat exchangers. |
| C10100 (Oxygen-Free Electronic Copper or OFE) | A high-purity copper alloy with extremely low oxygen content. Provides excellent electrical conductivity, low thermal EMF, and low outgassing. | Aerospace, telecommunications, medical equipment, scientific instruments, vacuum applications, and sensitive electronic devices. |
European Specification For Copper Tubes (EN 1057)
In Europe, copper tubes and pipes follow specifications set by European standardization organizations.
The primary specification is EN 1057, which defines requirements for copper and copper alloy seamless round tubes for water and gas in sanitary and heating applications.
Additional European specifications cover more specialized applications:
| EN Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| EN 1057 - Seamless, Round Tubes for Water and Gas in Sanitary and Heating Applications | Defines requirements for copper and copper alloy seamless round tubes used in plumbing, heating, and gas distribution. It classifies copper tubes into types (R220, R250, R290, R360) based on composition and service suitability. |
| EN 12449 - Seamless, Round Tubes for General Purposes | Covers seamless, round copper tubes for general applications across industrial, commercial, and residential uses. |
| EN 13348 - Seamless, Round Copper Tubes for Medical Gases or Vacuum | Covers seamless, round copper tubes for medical gas pipeline systems and vacuum systems in healthcare facilities. |
| EN 13600 - Seamless, Round Copper Tubes for Industrial Purposes | Covers seamless, round copper tubes for industrial processes, equipment manufacturing, and other specialized applications. |
| EN 12450 - Seamless, Round Copper Tubes for Water and Gas in Sanitary and Heating Applications | Complements EN 1057 with additional specifications for certain copper tube types used in water and gas sanitary/heating systems. |
These European specifications set strict quality standards for dimensional tolerances, mechanical properties, and performance. Manufacturers and suppliers follow them to deliver copper tubes that meet the reliability and safety requirements of plumbing, heating, gas distribution, medical, and industrial systems.
Types Of Copper Tubes By EN1057: R220, R250, R290, R360
EN 1057 classifies copper tubes by composition and intended application. The four main types are:
| Type | Min. Copper Content | Description |
|---|---|---|
| R220 | 99.90% | The highest-purity grade, typically used for general plumbing installations carrying drinking water. |
| R250 | 99.85% | Offers strong corrosion resistance and works well in heating systems, hot and cold water distribution, and gas installations. |
| R290 | 99.70% | Used where the tube faces more aggressive environments or where higher mechanical strength is needed, such as industrial service and certain heating installations. |
| R360 | 99.50% | Less common; specified for extreme service conditions or where enhanced mechanical properties are required. |
Each EN 1057 type provides a different balance of purity and strength. Selecting the right type based on operating conditions (temperature, pressure, water chemistry) directly affects tube longevity and system safety.
Delivery Options for Copper Tubes
Copper Tube Shapes/formats
Copper tubes ship in several forms to suit different installation methods and job-site conditions. The most common delivery shapes include:
Straight Lengths:
Copper tubes straight lengths
- The most basic delivery form for copper tubes.
- Standard lengths are 10 feet (3 meters) or 20 feet (6 meters), though custom lengths can be ordered.
- Best for runs where the tubing follows a straight path without significant bends or curves.
Coils:
Copper tubes coils
- Copper tubes wound into a circular coil.
- Common in residential plumbing and HVAC work, where flexibility and fast installation matter.
- Coiled tubes route easily around obstacles and corners, reducing the number of fittings and joints needed.
Pancake Coils:
Pancake coils copper tubes
- A tightly wound flat coil, shaped like a pancake.
- Used in confined spaces such as tight crawl spaces, behind walls, or in equipment cabinets.
- Compact for storage and shipping; unrolls and straightens easily during installation.
Pre-Insulated Copper Tubes:
Pre Insulated Copper Tubes
- Copper tubes shipped with factory-applied insulation (foam or rubber).
- Standard in chilled water and refrigeration service, where insulation prevents condensation and maintains temperature efficiency.
- Combining tube and insulation into one product speeds up installation.
Custom Shapes and Forms:
- Copper tubes can be bent, flared, swaged, or otherwise formed to match specific project geometry.
- Custom-shaped tubes solve routing problems in complex or non-standard installations where off-the-shelf configurations do not work.
These delivery formats give engineers and installers flexibility across plumbing, heating, HVAC, and industrial projects. The right shape depends on the installation layout, available space, and project specifications.
Copper Tube Surface Finish
Copper tubes are available with several surface finishes that affect performance, corrosion protection, and appearance:
Bright Annealed (BA):
Bright annealed copper tube
- A heat treatment process that produces a shiny, reflective surface.
- Improves corrosion resistance and makes the tube easier to clean.
- Often selected where appearance matters.
Mill Finish:
Mill Finish Copper Tubes
- The as-manufactured surface condition, with no additional treatment.
- Smooth but not highly polished.
- Mill finish tubes can be used as-is or processed further depending on the application.
Polished Finish:
Polished Finish Copper Tube
- Achieved through mechanical or chemical polishing, using various grit sizes for different levels of smoothness and shine.
- Common in architectural and decorative applications where appearance is a priority.
Lacquered Finish:
Lacquered Finish Copper Tube
- A protective lacquer coating applied to prevent tarnishing and corrosion.
- The coating acts as a barrier against moisture, chemicals, and environmental exposure.
- Used in plumbing and HVAC installations exposed to harsh conditions or where aesthetics matter.
Tinned Finish:
- A thin tin layer applied to improve solderability and corrosion resistance.
- Common in plumbing and refrigeration systems that require soldered connections.
- The tin also protects against oxidation and tarnishing.
Oxidized Finish:
- The natural patina (verdigris) that forms as copper oxidizes over time, producing a greenish-brown color.
- Deliberately used in roofing, cladding, and architectural elements where a weathered or antique look is the design intent.
The choice of surface finish depends on the operating environment, the type of joints being made, and whether appearance is a factor.
Sizes of Copper Tubes
The table shows the standard dimensions of copper tubes for plumbing applications according to ASTM B88:
Sizes In Inches NPS 1/4 to 8
| NPS | OD (inch.) | ID K | ID L | ID M | ID DWV | WT K | WT L | WT M | WT DWV |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/4 | 0.375 | 0.305 | 0.315 | - | - | 0.035 | 0.030 | - | - |
| 3/8 | 0.500 | 0.402 | 0.430 | 0.450 | - | 0.049 | 0.035 | 0.025 | - |
| 1/2 | 0.625 | 0.527 | 0.545 | 0.569 | - | 0.049 | 0.040 | 0.028 | - |
| 5/8 | 0.750 | 0.652 | 0.666 | - | - | 0.049 | 0.042 | - | - |
| 3/4 | 0.875 | 0.745 | 0.785 | 0.811 | - | 0.065 | 0.045 | 0.032 | - |
| 1 | 1.125 | 0.995 | 1.025 | 1.055 | - | 0.065 | 0.050 | 0.035 | - |
| 1-1/4 | 1.375 | 1.245 | 1.265 | 1.291 | 1.295 | 0.065 | 0.055 | 0.042 | 0.040 |
| 1-1/2 | 1.625 | 1.481 | 1.505 | 1.527 | 1.541 | 0.072 | 0.060 | 0.049 | 0.042 |
| 2 | 2.125 | 1.959 | 1.985 | 2.009 | 2.041 | 0.083 | 0.070 | 0.058 | 0.042 |
| 2-1/2 | 2.625 | 2.435 | 2.465 | 2.495 | - | 0.095 | 0.080 | 0.065 | - |
| 3 | 3.125 | 2.907 | 2.945 | 2.981 | 3.030 | 0.109 | 0.090 | 0.072 | 0.045 |
| 3.5 | 3.625 | 3.385 | 3.425 | 3.459 | - | .120 | .100 | .083 | - |
| 4 | 4.125 | 3.857 | 3.897 | 3.935 | 4.009 | .134 | .114 | .095 | .058 |
| 5 | 5.125 | 4.805 | 4.875 | 4.907 | 4.981 | .160 | .125 | .109 | .072 |
| 6 | 6.125 | 5.741 | 5.845 | 5.881 | 5.959 | .192 | .140 | .122 | .083 |
| 8 | 8.125 | 7.583 | 7.725 | 7.785 | - | .271 | .200 | .170 | - |
Sizes In Inches/Millimeters NPS 1/4 to 3
| Nominal Size (inch.) | OD (inch.) | OD (mm) | Type K ID (inch.) | Type K ID (mm) | Type L ID (inch.) | Type L ID (mm) | Type M ID (inch.) | Type M ID (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1⁄4 | 3⁄8 | 9.5 | 0.305 | 7.747 | 0.315 | 8.001 | ||
| 3⁄8 | 1⁄2 | 12.7 | 0.402 | 10.211 | 0.430 | 10.922 | 0.450 | 11.430 |
| 1⁄2 | 5⁄8 | 15.875 | 0.528 | 13.411 | 0.545 | 13.843 | 0.569 | 14.453 |
| 5⁄8 | 3⁄4 | 19.05 | 0.652 | 16.561 | 0.668 | 16.967 | 0.690 | 17.526 |
| 3⁄4 | 7⁄8 | 22.225 | 0.745 | 18.923 | 0.785 | 19.939 | 0.811 | 20.599 |
| 1 | 1 1⁄8 | 28.575 | 0.995 | 25.273 | 1.025 | 26.035 | 1.055 | 26.797 |
| 11⁄4 | 1 3⁄8 | 34.925 | 1.245 | 31.623 | 1.265 | 32.131 | 1.291 | 32.791 |
| 11⁄2 | 1 5⁄8 | 41.275 | 1.481 | 37.617 | 1.505 | 38.227 | 1.527 | 38.786 |
| 2 | 2 1⁄8 | 53.975 | 1.959 | 49.759 | 1.985 | 50.419 | 2.009 | 51.029 |
| 21⁄2 | 2 5⁄8 | 66.675 | 2.435 | 61.849 | 2.465 | 62.611 | 2.495 | 63.373 |
| 3 | 3 1⁄8 | 79.375 | 2.907 | 73.838 | 2.945 | 74.803 | 2.981 | 75.717 |
Leave a Comment
Have a question or feedback? Send us a message.