Diameters of copper pipes: overview of the range and scope of application. Copper pipes, types of products and their installation process Diameters of copper pipes

The appearance on the market of many budget analogues - pipes made of metal-plastic and PPN (polypropylene), has not caused the loss of popularity of copper pipes, which are still widely used in the construction of heating systems.

This article presents copper pipes and fittings. We will look at the standard sizes of pipes and types of fittings, compare them with polypropylene analogues and study the technology of connecting products for soldering, compression and crimping.

Contents of the article

Copper pipe marking

Copper pipes for heating are manufactured in accordance with the provisions of GOST No. 617-90 “Copper pipes”. Products have a unified type marking DKRNM 28*3*3000 M2 B, wherein

D – manufacturing method ( , G – pressed);
K – round section;
N – manufacturing accuracy is normal (P – increased);
M – soft (P – semi-hard, T – hard, L – soft with increased ductility, P – semi-hard with increased strength, H – hard with increased strength);
28 – outer diameter, mm;
3 – wall thickness, mm;
3000 – measured length of the segment;
M2 – made of M2 grade copper.

Copper pipes can be made in soft or hard versions, which depends on the brand of alloy used for production. For the installation of heating systems, hard products are most often used; the use of soft pipes is rational only when installing a heated floor, the installation of which is carried out with a large number of bends.

Assortment and features of choice

Hard copper pipes for heating are produced in pieces of measured length from 2 to 5 m, soft ones - in coils up to 50 meters long. The wall thickness varies between 1-3 mm; in heating communications, products with walls of 1.5-2 mm are most often used.

Let's consider the overall characteristics of the most popular pipe diameters:

∅ 10 mm: weight per linear meter – 197 g, wall thickness – 1.5 mm;
∅ 12 mm: lm weight – 308 g, wall thickness – 1.5 mm;
∅ 15 mm: lm weight – 391 g, wall thickness – 1.5 mm;
∅ 18 mm: lm weight – 480 g, wall thickness – 2 mm;
∅ 22 mm: lm weight – 590 g, wall thickness – 2 mm;
∅ 28 mm: lm weight – 1115 g, wall thickness – 2.5 mm;
∅ 35 mm: lm weight – 1420 g, wall thickness – 2.5 mm;
∅ 42 mm: lm weight – 1700 g, wall thickness – 3 mm.

Depending on the production technology, pipes can be annealed or unannealed. Products that have not undergone thermal hardening have greater mechanical strength (they can withstand pressure up to 450 Bar) but less elasticity (they practically do not bend). Pipes that have undergone annealing (heating to a high temperature and subsequent cooling), on the contrary, are more plastic and less resistant to deformation.

A few words about choosing the pipe diameter. It must correspond to the diameter of the boiler supply opening (at the first branch), and at each subsequent branch it is necessary to use products with a diameter 1 dimensional grid step smaller than the previous one - this approach will ensure the absence of pressure losses at all stages of coolant circulation.

For example: the diameter of the pipes connected to the radiators is 20 mm, the diameter of the vertical risers is 22 mm, the diameter of the main supply line is 24 mm. The “return” channel is assembled in a similar way, but the diameter varies from larger to smaller.

Advantages and disadvantages, comparison with analogues

Copper pipes for heating have an alternative, which are. Let's study the advantages and disadvantages of the options we are considering and determine which one is better to use:

the service life of copper pipes reaches 100 years, while polypropylene pipes last no more than 30 years (the service life directly depends on the mode of use - when the coolant temperature rises above the permissible limit, polypropylene loses strength and deforms);
both options have minimal weight and a fairly simple connection technology (for joining, the soldering method or shaped fittings are used;
copper products have a temperature maximum of 250 degrees, polypropylene - 95 degrees (can tolerate a short-term increase in temperature up to 110 0);
both copper and polypropylene pipes are highly resistant to corrosion under the influence of water and high air humidity, however, copper is a conductive material and must be protected from stray currents, under the influence of which it can quickly corrode;
polypropylene pipes break when the coolant freezes, while copper pipes, due to the high elasticity of the material, remain intact;
copper and polypropylene products have perfectly smooth internal walls, on which plaque does not form, which impairs the throughput of the pipeline;
Copper, unlike plastic, does not lose its performance characteristics when exposed to direct sunlight.

However, copper products also have a number of disadvantages, the main one of which is high cost. For comparison: the price for a linear meter of pipe with a diameter of 18 mm is 400 rubles, while a polypropylene analogue costs 60 rubles/linear meter. This is also the case with copper fittings used to connect the pipeline.

Copper is a fairly soft material that is subject to abrasion under the influence of mechanical particles inside the coolant. To avoid this, the pipeline must be equipped with a filter device. Please note that copper pipes cannot be connected to products made of other metals - steel, aluminum or stainless steel. This is fraught with the activation of electrochemical reactions, as a result of which the pipeline begins to rust more quickly. The only metal with which copper is compatible is brass.

Copper pipes in heating systems (video)

Fittings for connecting copper pipelines

Copper fittings are shaped elements by means of which individual sections of the pipeline are joined together. Copper pipe fittings are available in the following configurations:

parallel couplings;
tees;
squares (45 and 90 degrees);
crosses.

The above copper fittings can be one-size - for connecting pipes of the same diameter, or transitional - for connecting sections of pipelines of different sizes.

Solder fittings

Connecting products intended for joining by soldering are called capillary. Their inner walls are covered with a thin layer of tin solder - the molten solder fills the gap between the walls of the connecting products and, after hardening, firmly adheres them to each other.

Among the high-quality products for soldering, we note Sanha fittings. This company produces copper fittings of all common sizes according to German quality standards from CW024A alloy. The connections are able to withstand pressure in the range of 16-40 Bar and an operating temperature of 110 degrees.

The technology for connecting copper pipelines using the soldering method is quite simple to implement:

The mating surfaces of the pipe and fittings are cleaned of dirt, degreased and treated with fine-grained sandpaper.
A layer of low-temperature flux up to 1 mm thick is applied to the pipe walls.
The connecting elements are joined together, after which the joint is heated with a heat gun or gas burner to a temperature of 400 0 for 10-15 seconds.
Wait for the joint to cool down, after which the remaining flux is cleaned with a rag.

Soldering must be done in a ventilated area, since when solder and flux melt, gases that are harmful to the body are released.

Push-in connections

Collet fittings, also known as compression fittings for copper pipes, make a serviceable connection that must be dismantled. All are classified into two groups:

“A” – for products made of hard and semi-hard copper;
“B” – for pipes made of soft copper.

They differ in that class “B” fittings have an internal sleeve - a fitting, onto which the connected sections of the pipeline are mounted. The fitting acts as a supporting element that prevents deformation of the copper walls during crimping.

Connection installation technology:

A union nut and a split ring are put on the pipe.
The ring is placed at a distance of 1 cm from the cut.
The pipe is pressed onto the fitting fitting.
The union nut is tightened by hand until it stops, after which it is tightened using an adjustable or open-end wrench.

Press connection

For copper pipes they consist of a body, a fitting and a crimp sleeve. Their installation takes a minimum of time - the joining sections of the pipeline are inserted into the socket on the fitting, after which the sleeve is crimped using press pliers. This tool can be rented at a plumbing store or purchased, prices start at 3 thousand rubles.

This connection is maintenance-free; unlike a collet joint, you will not be able to dismantle it without compromising the integrity of the fitting. In case of leaks, it is necessary to replace the connecting element. Note that press fittings are the most reliable and durable, their service life reaches up to 30 years.

Her Majesty the trumpet! Of course, it makes our lives better. Like that:

The key characteristic of any cylindrical pipe is its diameter. It can be internal ( Du) and external ( Dn). Pipe diameter is measured in millimeters, but the unit of pipe thread is inch.

At the junction of the metric and foreign measurement systems, the most questions usually arise.

In addition, the actual size of the internal diameter often does not coincide with Dy.

Let's take a closer look at how we can continue to live with this. A separate article is devoted to pipe threads. Read also about profile pipes, which are used for the construction of structures.

Inches vs mm. Where does the confusion come from and when is a correspondence table needed?

Pipes whose diameter is indicated in inches ( 1", 2" ) and/or fractions of inches ( 1/2", 3/4" ), are a generally accepted standard in water and water-gas supply.

What's the difficulty?

Take dimensions from the pipe diameter 1" (how to measure pipes is written below) and you will get 33.5 mm, which naturally does not coincide with the classical linear table for converting inches to mm ( 25.4 mm).

As a rule, the installation of inch pipes proceeds without difficulty, but when replacing them with pipes made of plastic, copper and stainless steel, a problem arises - a discrepancy between the size of the designated inch ( 33.5 mm) to its actual size ( 25.4 mm).

Usually this fact causes bewilderment, but if you look deeper into the processes occurring in the pipe, the logic of the size discrepancy becomes obvious to a layman. It's quite simple - read on.

The fact is that when creating a water flow, the key role is played not by the external, but by the internal diameter, and for this reason it is used for designation.

However, the discrepancy between designated and metric inches still remains, since the internal diameter of a standard pipe is 27.1 mm, and reinforced - 25.5 mm. The last value is quite close to equality 1""=25,4 but still he is not.

The solution is that to designate the size of pipes, a nominal diameter rounded to a standard value is used (nominal bore Dy). The size of the nominal diameter is selected so that the throughput of the pipeline increases from 40 to 60% depending on the growth of the index value.

Example:

The outer diameter of the pipe system is 159 mm, pipe wall thickness 7 mm. The exact inner diameter will be D = 159 - 7*2= 145 mm. With wall thickness 5 mm size will be 149 mm. However, in both the first and second cases, the conditional passage will have the same nominal size 150 mm.

In situations with plastic pipes, adapters are used to solve the problem of inappropriate dimensions. If it is necessary to replace or connect inch pipes with pipes made according to real metric dimensions - copper, stainless steel, aluminum, both the outer and inner diameters should be taken into account.

Table of nominal diameter in inches

Du	Inches	Du	Inches	Du	Inches
6	1/8"	150	6"	900	36"
8	1/4"	175	7"	1000	40"
10	3/8"	200	8"	1050	42"
15	1/2"	225	9"	1100	44"
20	3/4"	250	10"	1200	48"
25	1"	275	11"	1300	52"
32	1(1/4)"	300	12"	1400	56"
40	1(1/2)"	350	14"	1500	60"
50	2"	400	16"	1600	64"
65	2(1/2)"	450	18"	1700	68"
80	3"	500	20"	1800	72"
90	3(1/2)"	600	24"	1900	76"
100	4"	700	28"	2000	80"
125	5"	800	32"	2200	88"

Table. Inner and outer diameters. Stacked water/water-gas pipelines, epectros-welded longitudinal, seamless hot-deformed steel and polymer pipes

Table of correspondence between nominal diameter, thread and outer diameters of the pipeline in inches and mm.

Nominal pipe diameter Dy. mm	Thread diameter G". inch	Pipe outer diameter Dn. mm
Nominal pipe diameter Dy. mm	Thread diameter G". inch	Water/water-gas pipes GOST 3263-75	Epoxy-welded straight-seam steel pipes GOST 10704-91. Seamless hot-deformed steel pipes GOST 8732-78. GOST 8731-74 (FROM 20 TO 530 ml)	Polymer pipe. PE, PP, PVC

GOST- state standard used in heat - gas - oil - pipelines

ISO- standard for designating diameters, used in plumbing engineering systems

SMS- Swedish standard for pipe diameters and valves

DIN/EN- main European range for steel pipes according to DIN2448 / DIN2458

DU (Dy)- conditional pass

Tables with sizes of polypropylene pipes are presented in the following article >>>

Conformity table for nominal pipe diameters with international markings

GOST	ISO inch	ISO mm	SMS mm	DIN mm	DU
8	1/8	10,30			5
10	1/4	13,70	6,35		8
12	3/8	17,20	9,54	12,00	10
18	1/2	21,30	12,70	18,00	15
25	3/4	26,90	19,05	23(23)	20
32	1	33,70	25,00	28,00	25
38	1 ¼	42,40	31,75	34(35)	32
45	1 ½	48,30	38,00	40,43	40
57	2	60,30	50,80	52,53	50
76	2 ½	76,10	63,50	70,00	65
89	3	88,90	76,10	84,85	80
108	4	114,30	101,60	104,00	100
133	5	139,70	129,00	129,00	125
159	6	168,30	154,00	154,00	150
219	8	219,00	204,00	204,00	200
273	10	273,00	254,00	254,00	250

Diameters and other characteristics of stainless steel pipes

Passage, mm	Diameter external, mm	Wall thickness, mm		Weight of 1 m pipe (kg)
Passage, mm	Diameter external, mm	standard	reinforced	standard	reinforced
10	17	2.2	2.8	0.61	0.74
15	21.3	2.8	3.2	1.28	1.43
20	26.8	2.8	3.2	1.66	1.86
25	33.5	3.2	4	2.39	2.91
32	42.3	3.2	4	3.09	3.78
40	48	3.5	4	3.84	4.34
50	60	3.5	4.5	4.88	6.16
65	75.5	4	4.5	7.05	7.88
80	88.5	4	4.5	8.34	9.32
100	114	4.5	5	12.15	13.44
125	140	4.5	5.5	15.04	18.24
150	165	4.5	5.5	17.81	21.63

Did you know?

What ingenious lamps can you assemble with your own hands from an ordinary metal pipe? Anyone can do this!

Which pipe is considered small - medium - large?

Even in serious sources I have seen phrases like: “We take any pipe of average diameter and...”, but no one indicates what this average diameter is.

To figure it out, you should first understand what diameter you need to focus on: it can be internal or external. The first is important when calculating the transport capacity of water or gas, and the second is important for determining the ability to withstand mechanical loads.

External diameters:

From 426 mm is considered large;

102-246 is called average;

5-102 is classified as small.

As for the internal diameter, it is better to look at the special table (see above).

How to find out the diameter of a pipe? Measure!

For some reason this strange question often comes to e-mail and I decided to supplement the material with a paragraph about measurement.

In most cases, when purchasing, it is enough to look at the label or ask the seller a question. But it happens that you need to repair one of the communication systems by replacing pipes, and initially it is not known what diameter the already installed ones have.

There are several ways to determine the diameter, but we will list only the simplest ones:

Arm yourself with a tape measure or a measuring tape (this is how women measure their waist). Wrap it around the pipe and record the measurement. Now, to obtain the desired characteristic, it is enough to divide the resulting figure by 3.1415 - this is the number Pi.

Example:

Let's imagine that the girth (circumference L) of your pipe is 59.2 mm. L=ΠD, resp. the diameter will be: 59.2 / 3.1415= 18.85 mm.

After obtaining the outer diameter, you can find out the inner one. Only for this you need to know the thickness of the walls (if there is a cut, just measure with a tape measure or other device with a millimeter scale).

Let's assume that the wall thickness is 1 mm. This figure is multiplied by 2 (if the thickness is 3 mm, then it is also multiplied by 2 in any case) and subtracted from the outer diameter (18.85- (2 x 1 mm) = 16.85 mm).

It’s great if you have a caliper at home. The pipe is simply grabbed by the measuring teeth. We look at the required value on a double scale.

Types of steel pipes according to their production method

Electric welded (straight seam)

For their manufacture, strips or sheet steel are used, which are bent to the required diameter using special equipment, and then the ends are connected by welding.

The effect of electric welding guarantees a minimum seam width, which makes it possible to use them for the construction of gas or water pipelines. The metal is in most cases carbon or low alloy.

The indicators of finished products are regulated by the following documents: GOST 10704-91, GOST 10705-80 GOST 10706-76.

Please note that a pipe manufactured in accordance with standard 10706-26 is distinguished by maximum strength among its peers - after creating the first connecting seam, it is strengthened by four additional ones (2 inside and 2 outside).

The regulatory documentation indicates the diameters of products produced by electric welding. Their size ranges from 10 to 1420 mm.

Spiral seam

The material for production is steel in rolls. The product is also characterized by the presence of a seam, but unlike the previous production method, it is wider, which means the ability to withstand high internal pressure is lower. Therefore, they are not used for the construction of gas pipeline systems.

A specific type of pipe is regulated by GOST number 8696-74 .

Seamless

The production of a specific type involves the deformation of specially prepared steel blanks. The deformation process can be carried out both under the influence of high temperatures and in a cold way (GOST 8732-78, 8731-74 and GOST 8734-75, respectively).

The absence of a seam has a positive effect on the strength characteristics - the internal pressure is evenly distributed over the walls (there are no “weak” places).

As for diameters, standards control their production with a value of up to 250 mm. When purchasing products with sizes exceeding those indicated, you have to rely only on the integrity of the manufacturer.

It is important to know!

If you want to buy the most durable material, buy seamless cold-formed pipes. The absence of temperature influences has a positive effect on preserving the original characteristics of the metal.

Also, if the ability to withstand internal pressure is an important indicator, then choose round products. Profile pipes cope better with mechanical loads (metal frames, etc., are well made from them).

Here are a couple more excellent slides of creative advertising for a pipe manufacturer:

Read in the article

Thermal insulation

This type of product, like others, when installed outdoors or in an unheated room, requires insulation or thermal insulation.

For these purposes, special insulation is used in the form of a polyurethane foam casing, which is sold for pipes with different sections.

On the construction market you can find a large number of different copper products, so you need to approach your choice carefully.

Please note that all heating must consist of components made from the same type of copper. Pipes with a cross-section of up to 22 mm are sold in coils and can be given any shape at the installation site, which is very convenient

As for samples of larger diameter, they are sold in lengths of 3-5 meters.

If we consider installation technologies, we can safely say that copper pipes are truly universal. In most cases, using the same pipe, you can choose one of several connection methods and even use fittings from third-party manufacturers. Depending on the assigned tasks, you can perform:

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

Usually pipes with a diameter of 100 mm and a wall thickness of more than 1.5 mm are welded. Mechanical assembly has some limitations: it is not suitable for areas that are located in monoliths, or hidden in building structures, such fittings are relatively expensive. In domestic heating systems, low-temperature soft soldering is most often used, which requires special capillary fittings (the material is preferably of the same brand as the pipe).

One of the mechanical assembly options. Press pliers are used to secure the connection.

Note! The use of hard solder involves heating the metal to 6000 or more, so the copper in the joint zone is “annealed”. High-temperature capillary soldering is relevant for pipes with a diameter of 22 mm or more, for example, if you need to obtain super-strong fixation, or, for example, if the coolant during operation will warm up above 170 degrees

Preparation for capillary soldering

A pipe of the required size is cut with a special tool.
From the outside, a chamfer is removed from the end of the workpiece, which further reduces the hydraulic resistance in the joint area.
An abrasive sponge that does not contain metal fibers is used to clean off the oxide film on the outer surface of the pipe and inside the fitting.
Flux paste is applied and distributed over the entire contact area with a brush (it is not necessary to use flux for hard solder).
The fitting is pushed onto the pipe until it stops (preferably with a slight twist).
The flux is removed from the surface with a rag.

Low temperature soldering of copper pipe

The connection area is heated until the flux begins to melt. The burner nozzle must be moved evenly around the neck.
The filler wire (solder) is smoothly passed along the edge of the joint. If the pipe is located horizontally, then starting from the bottom.
The solder will begin to melt and “wet” the surfaces; thanks to the capillary effect, it will flow into the cavities between the walls of the parts being connected.
The assembled unit should cool naturally, without the use of water.

With high-quality soldering, the solder completely fills the gap, resulting in a clean, neat joint.

As you can see, substantial capital investments in heating from copper pipes will not be in vain. Homeowners who have the ability and desire to use copper pipes receive reliable, durable wiring with better performance characteristics. That is why there are so many fans of this technology among professionals.

Manufacturing methods and technologies

There are 2 main manufacturing technologies that ultimately affect the operational characteristics of the pipeline, its scope of application, as well as the cost of the pipes themselves and fittings for them:

Rolling production.
Welded production.

Upon completion, the pipes can be chrome-plated, painted and covered with a polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride sheath.

Rolling production

The rolling (seamless) method is considered the most common and provides maximum pipe strength. The essence of the technology is to give the copper billet (sleeve) the desired configuration by “cold” running it through the rotating rollers of a special pipe rolling machine.

Welded production

Welded pipes are made of sheet copper, screwed onto a blank of a pressing shaft of the required size and shape and welded with an inert gas at the joint. After welding, the pipe is rolled on calibration rollers, which level it and eliminate longitudinal deformation of the weld.

Scope of application and limitations of use

Rolled copper pipes are used in various communication systems for domestic and industrial purposes.

Water pipes. Traditionally used in arranging water supplies for various purposes. The characteristics of copper and an extensive range of rolled pipes make it possible to equip pipelines of different capacities and meters.

Plumbing copper is neutral to low concentrations of chlorine contained in drinking water (the norm is no more than 0.5 mg/l). Copper pipeline has proven itself in storm drains and sewerage systems

Heating network. A double effect is achieved. On the one hand, durability of operation due to corrosion resistance, on the other, protection of the system from unregulated changes in coolant temperature. The use of a copper pipeline with an insulating sheath is justified in underfloor heating systems.

Gas pipeline. The convenience of rolled copper lies in the tightness of the line. There is no oxidation or galvanic corrosion during gas transportation. The reliability of pressed connections and solders increases the safety of the gas pipeline in areas with seismic activity.

Fuel system. Due to its neutrality, copper fittings are used in networks for pumping fuel oil - there is no risk of ignition or the formation of a static charge.

Copper tubes are used in heat exchangers of gas water heaters, hydraulic and brake systems of vehicles and aircraft, cooling circuits of refrigerators and climate control systems

Nuances and limitations of use:

The limiting speed of liquid transportation in a water supply system is 2 m/s. Compliance with the recommendation will extend the service of the “plastic” highway.
Copper is a soft metal and constant contact with an environment filled with solid particles can lead to “washing out” of the walls. To prevent the formation of erosion, it is advisable to ensure preliminary cleaning of the water from foreign matter. It is enough to install a coarse (mechanical) filter.
Under favorable conditions, an oxide film appears on the internal walls of the copper main - the coating does not impair the quality of water and protects the metal from wear. Requirements for the formation of patina: acidity of the water stream pH – 6-9, hardness – 1.42-3.42 mg/l. With other parameters, cyclic destruction and restoration of the film occurs due to the consumption of metal.
Lead solder should not be used for installation of drinking water supply - the metal and its compounds are toxic. The substance can accumulate in the body, causing a gradual detrimental effect on various organs.

It is permissible to connect copper communications with a pipeline made of brass and plastic. When combining copper pipes with steel and aluminum elements, you must adhere to the joining sequence.

Connection rule: sections of other metals should be placed in front of copper pipes in the direction of coolant circulation. If the arrangement is reversed, electrochemical corrosion occurs.

What is important to know about pipe parameters

Length and diameter are simple parameters expressed in digital equivalents to make it easier to measure and enter the value into formulas. But in reality, there are several parameters for measuring the thickness of pipes, and accuracy is needed everywhere.

This is interesting! Discrepancies in measurements arose due to the introduction of copper pipes into European construction technologies from the mid-twentieth century. Then, in our territory, the main standard was determined in millimeters - for iron products, which are widely used even today. Domestic apartment buildings are equipped mainly with steel water supply.

In Europe, private households with copper communications are more popular. They are the most durable, corrosion resistant, but have a high cost.. Seamless copper products are gradually gaining their market segment; they are also produced in accordance with GOST. They are used not only for plumbing communications, but also to ensure the operation of:

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

Different pipeline segments use pipes of different cross-sections, and it is important to know what diameter is suitable for a particular purpose

Soldering copper water pipes

This is a more reliable method, however, to implement it you must have certain skills and comply with safety requirements.

Soldering is the most labor-intensive method of connecting copper pipes

Soldering involves performing the following steps:

Use a pipe cutter or a hacksaw to cut the required piece of pipe.
Remove the thermal insulation at its end, if any.
Remove any burrs that have formed.
Using sandpaper, remove the oxide film from the soldering area.
Sand the fitting.
Remove any dust that appears on the parts with a dry cloth.
Apply flux to the surface of the pipe. Then the solder will spread evenly.
Insert the end of the pipe into the fitting so that the remaining gap between the parts does not exceed 0.4 mm.
Take a gas torch for soldering copper pipes and heat the future joint. This can also be done with a blowtorch. Move the flame evenly along the seam, avoiding overheating of any pipe section.
Insert solder into the gap created by inserting the copper pipe into the fitting and seal the seam.
After installing the water supply system, so that no flux particles remain in the system, wash it thoroughly.

There's one trend we can't ignore when it comes to copper pipes. It lies in the fact that owners of elite country cottages or premium apartments in modern new buildings use these products not only for water supply pipelines, but also in wastewater disposal systems

Indeed, in housing of this category, everything should be of the highest standard, even sewerage. Moreover, the characteristics of copper pipes allow this to be done without compromising the quality of operation of such a system.

If desired, a drainage system can also be installed from copper pipes

If you plan to use these products to connect various household plumbing fixtures to the wastewater drainage system, when purchasing copper pipes and installing them, be guided by the data from Table No. 2, which indicates the parameters for connecting household appliances that consume water to the wastewater drainage system.

table 2

note! Replacing an existing cast iron sewer riser with a copper one is not economically feasible. We are talking about such pipe products as bends, chrome-plated connections from mixers, elbows, etc.

The possibility of different angles allows you to minimize the number of joints. This factor not only guarantees reliability, but also improves the appearance of engineering communications. To perform this procedure, you will need a special pipe bender that can be used without preheating the pipe. A heated pipe should be bent using springs. This technology preserves the cross-section of the workpiece.

Any owner wants to have reliable and uninterruptedly functioning communications in his home. And if you want to decorate your home with a stylish decorative element that also functions as a full-fledged water supply system, opt for a copper water pipe.

Size chart

Main sections and translation methods

As we noted above, most often the pipe cross-section is indicated in fractions of an English inch. This is difficult only at first glance, because once you figure it out, you can literally “on the fly” convert these values, selecting a part in accordance with the task.

Wall thickness is also an important parameter

The calculations are quite simple:

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 of 1 4 inches, we multiply 25 by 1/4. As a result, we get a value of 6.25 mm.

Advice! In this way, only an approximate value can be obtained, since deviations are usually explained by different wall thicknesses for different sizes. However, this accuracy is enough for everyday needs.

Half-inch pipe with fitting

The complete table of copper pipe diameters is given below:

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

Note! Sometimes the pipe marking does not indicate inches, but the cross-section and wall thickness in millimeters. For example, a 6x1 copper pipe has a diameter of 6 mm and a wall of 1 mm

Product with a cross section of 6 mm with a millimeter wall

Product weight

Knowing these data, you can quite easily calculate the mass of a linear meter to calculate the load on supporting structures:

M = (D - S) * S * 3.14 * p/1000, where

M – specific gravity of the pipe (kg/m.m).
S – wall thickness, mm.
P – copper density, 8.9 g/cm3.

Therefore, if we have a copper pipe 1 1 8, then:

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

As in the case of the cross-section, the figures are quite approximate, but they are quite sufficient to assess the situation.

Use of pipes of different diameters

The range of applications for copper products is quite wide:

Copper pipe 10 mm or less is used for installation of internal heat exchangers in heating and air conditioning systems. The small diameter of such pipes ensures maximum operating efficiency of such devices due to good energy transfer.
Products from 10 to 25 mm are used for installation of water pipelines. 1 2 inch copper pipe is one of the most commonly used pipes when installing a water supply system. The same goes for 3/4″ parts.

Use in the manufacture of convectors

Varieties up to 40-45 mm are used for drainage systems. Despite their relatively small diameter, they provide effective drainage due to their high permeability.
Copper pipe 3 8, as well as thicker varieties, are also well suited for heating systems. The high heat resistance of the material, together with the excellent thermal conductivity of thin walls, allows you to heat a room with minimal energy consumption.
The thickest bends from the water-carrying main, and also as decorative and protective elements, for example, casings for semi-open wiring.

Material characteristics

General properties and production methods

Copper pipes are a material that began to be used for arranging communications quite a long time ago. This was facilitated by the relative ease of metal processing, as well as good performance. This combination of qualities has led to the fact that copper is still actively used today - albeit not on the same scale as steel, cast iron or technological polymers.

Today there are two methods for producing pipes.

Seamless pipes, which are of the highest quality and therefore highly in demand, do this:

Copper bar is taken as a raw material. Usually it contains not only copper, but also various additives that improve the performance characteristics of the finished product.
Next, the block is heated, after which a hollow sleeve with fairly thick walls is formed from it on a piercing mill.
After this, the liner is sent to a rolling mill, where round rollers process its surface, thinning the walls and passing the part through a calibrating die. The result is, for example, a 1 4 inch copper pipe - depending on what section was set in the machine settings and what workpiece was used.

Photos of finished products immediately after leaving the rental device

Note! When producing large-diameter parts, it is possible to reheat the sleeve to facilitate rolling. Naturally, in this case, the cost of producing the part increases.

Welded products are produced much less frequently. In this case, a strip of metal is taken as a workpiece, which is rolled into a tube around a matrix of a certain size. The edges of the strip are welded and the seam is cleaned.

Further processing largely determines the properties of the material:

Unannealed pipes are more durable, but at the same time more rigid and less convenient for installation. After manufacturing, they are not subjected to heat treatment, due to which the internal structure of the metal remains unchanged.
If, after production, the workpieces undergo an annealing procedure, then the internal crystal lattice of copper is partially modified. On the one hand, this leads to a slight loss of strength and a decrease in the melting point, but on the other hand, the product becomes flexible, which greatly simplifies installation.

Note! Annealed copper pipe 5-8 inches (and sometimes parts with a larger cross-section) can be supplied in coils of significant footage. Unannealed varieties are almost always supplied individually, since attempting to bend them can result in permanent deformation.

Annealed product in a coil

Advantages

For copper products this situation is extremely unlikely.

Among the advantages of copper pipes are the following:

Firstly, the material is practically not subject to corrosion.. Even with prolonged contact with liquid under fairly harsh conditions (temperature changes, salinity, presence of carbon dioxide), only a patina (a characteristic green coating) may appear. This coating does not affect the operational properties of the structure.

Note! Experts do not recommend cleaning patina from areas hidden from our view: it is chemically inert, and therefore acts as an additional protective layer. Naturally, such instructions are informal, but they are very effective.

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

This system is very reliable, but you will have to try hard to assemble it.

The advantages include high ductility with good heat resistance. It is for this reason that copper is used in various heat exchangers: the material is guaranteed not to melt (even the thinnest wall can withstand up to +2500C without signs of deformation), and its flexibility allows you to design a rather complex layout.
Finally, the advantages include a wide range. You can select a part for almost any task, since the list of available diameters amounts to more than a dozen values.

If we talk about the disadvantages, then the most significant for us will be the high price. Neither copper heating pipes nor copper plumbing can be called budget solutions.

However, good performance indicators along with an attractive appearance compensate for this shortcoming. Therefore, if possible, pay once and don’t think about the functioning of the system anymore.

Tools for work

When working with copper pipes, special tools are used.

Pipe cutters

They are necessary in order to cut pipes of the required length. By the way, this tool is effective not only for working with copper pipes, it works well with plastic, steel and metal-plastic. The pipe cutter ensures strict perpendicularity of the cut and the required quality of the end. The tool is optimal when you have to work with gaseous or other flammable materials, since there is no spark in such a tool that could cause a fire. It is very convenient that the pipe cutter operates without the use of electric current; this makes it effective for use in remote areas where there is no widespread electrification.

There are two types of pipe cutters used for copper pipes.

Steel telescopic with a bracket-shaped body - on one side of this tool there is a cutting roller, and on the second there is an axle carriage with several guides. When the handle rotates, the carriage begins to move and thereby clamps the pipe. After the pipe cutter is rotated completely around the helical axis, a cut is made, and if at this moment you increase the pressure on the handle, the pipe section is cut off completely.
With a ratchet mechanism - purely visually, such a pipe cutter is similar to scissors, with one part made in the form of a C-shaped notch, and the other side is the cutting side. To make a cut on the pipe, you need to close the handle.

Pipe expander

Everyone knows that a pipeline is an extensive network that consists of pipes of different sizes, which is why when installing a system, the use of a pipe expander is an urgent necessity - without it it is impossible to connect individual elements using couplings or fittings. The product can be manual or electric, the first is optimal for small-volume work, and the second for installing complex systems.

The pipe expander is used to make the connection using fittings as convenient as possible. It must be borne in mind that for individual versions of pipes of different diameters, a separate expander should be used; however, there is no need to purchase several pipe expanders; it is quite enough to create a stock of several heads of different sizes.

Pipe bender

As the name suggests, pipe benders are used to bend pipes.

The tool can be mechanical or manual.

Mechanical The pipe bender is made in the form of a hydraulic press. Such options are optimal when work is carried out in large volumes, since they provide more powerful force than manual models. The components of a pipe bender-press are a hydraulic cylinder, a frame, a pump, rollers for fastening the pipe, interchangeable nozzles of different sizes and control handles. In order to reduce the possibility of overheating, a special relay is installed. Such a press is attached to a solid base. Its weight, depending on the operating power, can vary from 29 to 129 kg. The pipe bender is widely used both in industry and in everyday life.

But for small jobs it is also suitable manual tool, it allows you to bend pipes 90 degrees. This option is optimal for working in cramped conditions and at heights.

Press jaws

This tool is made of steel and is used to clamp press fittings. The principle of operation here is simple: the circuit clamps the fitting, and other zones form recesses

When purchasing this tool, it is very important to pay attention to the markings, which serve as proof of compliance with current quality systems. By the way, the product may have different crimp profiles, however, this in no way affects the strength and reliability of the fixation

In addition, to work with all types of copper pipes, you will need a clamp, as well as a soldering iron and a trimmer.

Fittings for connecting copper pipelines

Copper fittings are shaped elements by means of which individual sections of the pipeline are joined together. Copper pipe fittings are available in the following configurations:

parallel couplings;
tees;
squares (45 and 90 degrees);
crosses.

Types of copper fittings

The above copper fittings can be one-size - for connecting pipes of the same diameter, or transitional - for connecting sections of pipelines of different sizes.

Solder fittings

The technology for connecting copper pipelines using the soldering method is quite simple to implement:

The mating surfaces of the pipe and fittings are cleaned of dirt, degreased and treated with fine-grained sandpaper.
A layer of low-temperature flux up to 1 mm thick is applied to the pipe walls.
The connecting elements are joined together, after which the joint is heated with a heat gun or gas burner to a temperature of 4000 for 10-15 seconds.
Wait for the joint to cool down, after which the remaining flux is cleaned with a rag.

Copper pipe soldering diagram

Soldering must be done in a ventilated area, since when solder and flux melt, gases that are harmful to the body are released.

Push-in connections

Collet fittings, also known as compression fittings for copper pipes, make a serviceable connection that must be dismantled. All collet fittings are classified into two groups:

“A” - for products made of hard and semi-hard copper;
“B” - for pipes made of soft copper.

Compression Copper Fitting

Connection installation technology:

A union nut and a split ring are put on the pipe.
The ring is placed at a distance of 1 cm from the cut.
The pipe is pressed onto the fitting fitting.
The union nut is tightened by hand until it stops, after which it is tightened using an adjustable or open-end wrench.

Press connection

for copper pipes they consist of a body, a fitting and a crimp sleeve. Their installation takes a minimum of time - the joining sections of the pipeline are inserted into the socket on the fitting, after which the sleeve is crimped using press pliers. This tool can be rented at a plumbing store or purchased, prices start at 3 thousand rubles.

Press fitting installation

Fittings for copper pipe products

For laying copper pipelines, crimp or solder type fittings are used. The first type of connecting elements is usually made of brass. The tightness of such a connection is ensured by the presence of a crimp ring located inside the fitting, which is tightened with a wrench. A compression fitting is used to connect pipes of different diameters at the place where the pipeline is laid, provided there is access to check the tightness (more details: “”).

Such parts are usually used when it is necessary to lay a line designed for operation when the working medium moves through it under low pressure. At the same time, during the operation of the pipeline, it is necessary to periodically monitor the condition of the fittings.

The connection process is performed in the following sequence:

The fitting is disassembled into its component parts.
The clamp nut and ferrule are placed on the pipe.
The end of the pipe, which has a ring and a nut, is inserted into the fitting.
The nut is fixed all the way, and the cone-shaped ring must be inserted into the cone part without distortion.
The nut is tightened with a wrench by 0.5-1.25 turns - which depends on the diameter of the pipe used.

When performing work, the main thing is not to overdo it, since if you apply too much force, you can damage the wall of the pipe product.

The type of connection described above cannot be called flawless - compression fittings often leak, so their condition should be constantly monitored.

Their advantages and disadvantages

If copper is so good, why are buyers in the construction market more likely to purchase plastic and metal products to create plumbing and heating systems?

The main misconceptions why buyers refuse to purchase them include:

comparative high cost of materials;
complexity of installation (requires soldering joints).

However, these pipes have a number of advantages:

high quality material;
has a high thermal conductivity coefficient (applies specifically to non-insulated samples);
ease of flaring;
does not corrode and does not react to temperature changes;
easy to solder;
withstands high pressure;
are reliable despite their plasticity.
when buying non-insulated pipes, you can note that their price is lower than plastic or steel samples of the same diameter;
welding for the connection is not expensive;
it is possible to make any type of wiring due to a wide variety of copper fittings;
heating can last more than 50 years without repair;
plastic material at high pressures can deform without rupture;
can operate effectively at temperatures up to + 250°C.

Therefore, it is quite justified that the price of copper products is correspondingly high. In addition to the pricing policy, consumers avoid using such pipes and fittings because they worry about the complexity and correctness of their installation (soldering).

According to buyers, it is very difficult to solder copper heating systems on their own without certain skills. How to solder correctly, watch the video lessons below

Strengths and weaknesses of copper plumbing

Copper pipes are similar to their closest competitors (steel communications) in terms of strength and temperature characteristics. However, copper is more preferable due to its unique properties.

Corrosion resistance. Perhaps the main argument in favor of copper plumbing is its immunity to rust. This property explains the duration of uninterrupted operation of utility networks and minimizes the negative impact on plumbing fixtures.

Unlike steel products, copper fittings are less material-intensive - there is no need to install pipes with increased wall thickness in reserve in case of corrosion processes

Plastic . This quality explains a number of significant operational advantages of a copper pipeline:

flexibility of the material in processing - pipes can be bent to create complex trunk networks using hand tools;
retention of a given shape - soft polymer products cannot boast of this property;
possibility of using connecting fittings;
increased resistance to water hammer - the indicator of destructive pressure allows you not to fear for the integrity of the system during “jumps” in water pressure;
probability of deformation without mechanical destruction;
temperature jumps do not cause changes in linear parameters;
withstands freeze/thaw cycles while maintaining integrity.

Surface smoothness. An archival argument in favor of copper plumbing. The high homogeneity of the material ensures a perfectly even coating, which reduces the molecular bonds of the metal, which means the formation of salts and oxides is reduced.

The minimum coefficient of friction allows the use of copper pipes of smaller diameter in water supply networks than steel or plastic ones. Sediments do not accumulate on the internal walls, which means that the throughput does not deteriorate over time.

Resistance to chemical reagents. Copper is not destroyed when interacting with saline solutions, formalion and dilute non-oxidizing acids. When in contact with chlorine, it does not form oxides hazardous to humans.

Bactericidal. Copper alloy has antibacterial properties - as water circulates through the pipes, it is partially disinfected. An additional plus is that colonies of microorganisms do not multiply on the walls.

Immunity to UV rays. Copper does not lose its characteristics under the influence of UV radiation, which cannot be said about communications made of thermoplastic polymers.

The presence of a copper circuit in the bathroom is an exclusive decorative element and a sure sign of the prosperity of the home. The metal pipeline is easy to maintain and does not require regular painting

Along with good strength indicators, copper alloy pipes are somewhat lighter in weight than their steel counterparts. This makes them easier to transport and install. The indisputable advantage of a copper pipeline is the possibility of repeated use.

The disadvantages of copper water pipes include:

High price. When compared with the cost of analogues, copper products lose out. Setting up a network made of “yellow” metal will cost several times more than installing a plastic or steel main line.
Labor intensive installation. Technologies for joining copper fittings (assembly on fittings or soldering) are quite complex processes that require operational skills.
Acid intolerance. Copper pipes cannot be used to transport acidic media with a pH level of more than 9. Water with this indicator is not suitable for drinking.
Thermal conductivity. The parameter is 1.7 times higher than that of aluminum products and almost six times higher than the thermal conductivity of steel. When transporting a 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.

The problem can be solved by using a coating made of polyvinyl chloride or polyethylene. The outer sleeve prevents condensation, “cools” the surface, maintains the temperature of the transported medium and reduces noise.

Polyethylene insulation, due to the presence of air channels, somewhat reduces the level of thermal deformation of the pipe - this material is best used in areas with a small number of connections. Foamed “shell” (soft polyurethane foam, synthetic rubber) suitable for heating and hot water networks

Additional disadvantages of using rolled copper are electrical conductivity, as well as incompatibility with aluminum and steel elements of the water supply system. To prevent the risk of electric shock, care should be taken to properly ground the equipment during installation.

2 Advantages of copper pipes over plastic ones

Plumbing copper pipe, despite the very long history of its existence, successfully competes with modern products - plastic and metal-plastic products for plumbing. In many respects it is noticeably superior to them:

Copper is impermeable to foul-smelling, harmful substances and even oxygen.
Copper pipes, unlike plastic ones, are not susceptible to the destructive effects of chlorine, which is contained in tap water. Plastic pipes that are more resistant to chlorine are supplied exclusively to the US market, where water is chlorinated similarly to Russia. Such products cost no less than copper ones. In Europe, the requirements for chlorine content are much lower, so plastic for low-chlorinated water that meets the European standard is common on the domestic market.
Chlorine, being a strong oxidizing agent, promotes the formation of patina on the inner surface of a copper pipe - a durable, thin protective layer. Thanks to this, the service life of the pipeline is significantly extended.
Resistant to ultraviolet radiation. Plastic evaporates when exposed to sunlight.
Insignificant, lower than that of plastic pipes, roughness coefficient, which allows the use of copper products of smaller diameter under the same conditions. This is possible, including due to the absence of overgrowing of the walls with colonies of microorganisms and corrosion products.
Copes much better with prolonged heat loads.
According to research, plastic pipelines have the least reliable fittings and connections. For copper ones, on the contrary, these elements of the system are the most reliable.
The quality of copper is almost stable and the same from different manufacturers, which is not typical for plastic products (there are many counterfeit products of dubious quality in the consumer market).
It is characterized by antibacterial properties (pathogenic flora is suppressed). Plastic pipes release low-molecular organic matter; over time, the walls become overgrown with biofilm.
It has a very long service life: it does not deteriorate, does not age, and retains its original strength. Copper pipes and fittings last as long as the building itself without replacement. Plastic products, with existing technologies, cannot yet occupy the niche of durable and high-quality pipelines.

Characteristics of copper

Copper (Cu, cuprum) is recognizable by its golden-pink hue, which, under the influence of carbon dioxide and moisture, first acquires an intense yellow-red color, and over time becomes covered with a film (patina) with a greenish-blue tint.

On a note! Patina not only gives copper products the appearance of noble, aristocratic antiquity, but also performs a protective function. Therefore, it is not recommended to clean it.

Basic physical and chemical characteristics of copper:

High thermal conductivity.
Malleability and ductility.
Melting point - 1083⁰С.
Not susceptible to corrosion.
High electrical conductivity (2nd place among metals) and low electrical resistance.
Inert towards most substances, fungi, mold, viruses and various bacteria.
Resistance to ultraviolet radiation.

Installation of copper heating pipes

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

To bend a copper pipe, special equipment is used - this cannot be done by hand, as the lumen of the pipe decreases and circulation deteriorates

For installation compression fittings no special equipment is required: the pipe is inserted into the corresponding groove until it stops, and then tightened using a nut, pressing the pipe material against the fitting body. For a tight fit, you may need two keys - tighten until completely sealed. This is all the required equipment. But the specificity of crimp connections is such that constant monitoring of tightness is required: periodically they begin to “drip”. Therefore, such connections cannot be walled up.

Installation press fittings occurs using special press machines. They are not cheap (including rent). But the connection turns out to be tight and reliable, but inseparable.

It is considered more universal and reliable capillary soldering. In this way, you can connect sections of pipes of the same diameter directly: one of the welded ends is flared - the diameter is slightly increased so that the pipes can be inserted into one another. A special device is used for this. The joint is cleaned using a metal brush or special sponges (commercially available). The surfaces to be joined are treated with flux, a special compound that improves the “adhesion” of the metal to the solder. The treated pipes are inserted one into the other. The gap between them should be minimal - fractions of a millimeter. The joint is then heated using a welding torch. When the material is heated to the melting temperature of the solder, it is brought into the flame and the existing cracks are filled with the molten composition. After the seam is filled, it is cooled. You can simply leave it in the air until it cools, or you can put it in water. In principle, the process is not very complicated, but it requires experience, skill and thoroughness of execution: both flaring and the filling process itself require precision and accuracy. According to this scheme, connections are soldered with special copper fittings for soldering.

The process of soldering a copper pipe and the same fitting is well demonstrated in this video, but it is intended to be used in a plumbing system, and therefore tin is used as solder. For heating, other compositions are used that have a melting point of at least 115 ° C. Otherwise the process is the same.

1 Copper pipes for water supply technological features and advantages

First of all, copper pipes for water supply are attractive for their durability. Solid products with a diameter of 12 mm, having a wall thickness of only 1 mm, are designed for a working pressure of 100 bar at a temperature of 250 °C. Copper pipeline on fittings, assembled by brazing, can withstand maximum loads of more than 500 atm and temperatures up to 600 °C. Many materials become brittle when the temperature drops. Copper is an exception - the strength and ductility of this metal increases with decreasing temperature.

This property ensures the permissibility of repeated freezing and thawing of copper pipes (depending on the hardness of the products, up to 3 times). Even if an accident occurs, it is only in one place, unlike steel pipelines, in which the burst spreads throughout the entire pipe. Therefore, eliminating the consequences of freezing of copper products is not difficult, but the steel system must be completely replaced.

Copper pipes are easy to machine and are very technologically advanced in any area of installation: when going through holes, going around corners and other obstacles, installing equipment, mounting a branch on a ready-made pipeline. All work requires simple mechanized and hand tools.

Copper systems are universal - fittings and pipes of the same standard are used for all types of utilities. This ensures the use of a single installation method and the same equipment. The most common and most reliable method of connecting copper pipes is capillary soldering. The soldering width, even with small diameters, is never less than 7 mm and provides installation strength higher than that of known connection methods, including any types of welding.

During the tests, a rupture always occurred in the pipe body, and the tightness of the joints, including the serviced ones, was never compromised. Capillary soldering allows for quick and easy installation. Its advantages are especially obvious when compared with welding, which requires increased precision and care when working with plastic pipes, or bulky equipment in the case of steel systems.

In addition to connections of high durability and reliability (pressing, soldering, welding), there are also those that do not require special skills and tools - using fittings for quick installation in case of accidents, as well as in non-pressure systems (self-locking, compression, etc.). This ensures efficiency and flexibility in the work of the installer. It is prohibited to cut threads on copper pipes, but combination fittings allow a simple transition to threading by pressing or soldering.

Due to the plasticity of copper, it is possible to connect pipes by capillary soldering using a mechanized or manual expander without the use of fittings. This makes it possible (in some cases significantly) to reduce the cost of the system during its installation. The fitting method of connection ensures guaranteed stability of parameters and reliability of the system.

It is permissible to embed a copper pipeline into walls and floors if the products are used in insulation, a corrugated pipe, a shell, where thermal expansion is provided due to fluctuations in the temperature of the supplied water, or if they are mounted in a box. Serviced connections are prohibited from being monolithic without providing access to them. When laid open, copper pipes are very aesthetically pleasing and can be painted, but require an arrangement that prevents the risk of accidental damage.

Copper plumbing systems

Copper is a ductile and durable metal that is not subject to corrosion, and is also resistant to lime deposits and the development of microbes. Its strength and ease of processing have made it the most popular among other metals.

Copper pipe in a bay

Copper pipelines

According to the standards, copper pipes have thin walls, which makes them easy to bend. For cutting and bending, special tools are used that do not crush the pipe and allow you to get an even cut without nicks. Due to its particular resistance to high temperatures, it is advisable to use copper pipes and fittings for hot water supply.

This metal has very high thermal conductivity, which causes the tube to become very hot on the outside. Such communications must be covered with a casing or mounted in special boxes. At the same time, the water pipe looks very aesthetically pleasing and is used by many as a stylish element of the interior.

Copper Pipe Fittings

For copper pipes, various types of fittings can be used, including brass. There are several types of fastening of connecting elements, and the choice of material from which they are made depends on this.

If fittings and pipes are connected by welding, then it is obvious that both must be made of the same material. For installation work you will need special equipment, solder, flux and certain skills.

Solder connection

Crimping systems assume that the fittings are made of a fairly plastic material, such as copper. In addition, due to the same coefficients of thermal expansion, the formation of leaks and cracks is eliminated.

Compression fittings

Popular collet fasteners, which are equally successfully used in both metal-plastic and copper pipelines, are present in brass fittings. Brass is an alloy of zinc and copper, to which nickel, lead, iron and other alloying additives are added for strength, while the percentage of copper is at least 60%. While welded and crimp connections require only a smooth cut of the tube, a collet connection requires an external thread. This assumes that the copper pipe wall thickness will be higher.

Fitting device with collet

Threaded fittings are the simplest option from an installation point of view. Fittings can be made of either copper or brass; there are no special instructions here.

Elbow with internal thread

Pro et contra

Now let's try to evaluate copper against the background of competing solutions.

Advantages

Huge service life. I have already written that the 50 - 70 years promised by manufacturers for once represent a pessimistic assessment of the durability of the material. In practice, copper plumbing assembled using solder fittings will only have to be replaced when the layout of the house changes.

Resistance to water hammer. Destructive pressure of more than 200 atmospheres allows you not to be afraid of the unpredictability of water supply parameters. For comparison, polypropylene and metal-plastic tear at 15 - 25 kgf/cm2 (primarily in hot water).

Consequences of water hammer on metal-plastic.

Temperature resistance. Even if a careless plumber does not switch the hot water supply to the return water supply during the peak of cold weather, you do not have to worry about overheating of the water supply: the maximum for the heating main of 150 C is absolutely safe for copper.

Environmental friendliness. Copper has a bactericidal effect and does not release harmful substances into the water.

Plasticity at negative temperatures. It allows the water supply to withstand several cycles of freezing and thawing without destruction. In such cases, VGP steel pipes break along the longitudinal weld.

Resistance to corrosion, no deposits on the walls of the water supply system. Anyone who has ever opened an old cold water supply system made with steel pipes has probably noticed how much their clearance has narrowed.

Typical condition of a steel cold water pipe.

Flaws

Alas, we couldn’t do without them:

Copper does not like acidic environments. It cannot be used to supply water with a pH higher than 9;

Such water is still unsuitable for drinking.

Copper forms galvanic couples with aluminum and, to a lesser extent, steel. When metals are connected in one circuit, a constant weak current occurs between them, ion migration occurs, which significantly reduces the service life of the water supply system;

Galvanic corrosion does not require external power sources to occur.

Copper is exceptionally thermally conductive, which means rapid cooling in hot water pipes and constant cooling in cold water pipes;
Finally, the price of a copper pipe is significantly higher than the cost of the same polypropylene or metal-plastic. I will give an excerpt from the current price list for June 2016 of one of the Russian online stores:

3 Copper and its advantages over steel

Water supply pipes, copper and steel, are similar in temperature and strength characteristics, since both materials are metal. Copper products have the following advantages:

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

Basic quantities for measuring pipes

Experts distinguish the diameter of copper pipes:

nominal;
interior;
outer.

There are also such general concepts as “nominal diameter” and “wall thickness”. Without indicating the dimensions, they say that the product is “thick-walled” or “thin-walled.” All diameters of copper pipes must be indicated in their markings - in inches and millimeters.

The thickness of the walls 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 a significant indicator.
For high-quality joining of the pipeline through fittings, the conditional bore is important - the internal clearance of the product; millimeters are also used to designate it. On imported products made of non-ferrous metals, it is indicated in inches, which requires conversion to “our” values.
Internal diameter is the main indicator of pipeline permeability (mm), used for calculations in formulas.
Outer diameter – important for the classification of products (large, medium and small), indicated in “mm” in all tables.
Nominal diameter is approximately the same as “nominal diameter”, but is marked with an exact value.

Using a ruler you can determine the pipe size very approximately

Attention! Approximate values are given by a tape measure or measuring tape; exact values are given by calipers and measuring equipment. . Today, the materials from which pipes for highways and household water supply systems are produced are limited to a small list:

Today, the materials from which pipes for highways and household water supply systems are produced are limited to a small list:

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

Some copper pipe sizes are designated in inches, such as "inch" or "half-inch." This means that the internal diameter is expressed as 1 inch or ½ inch - about 25.4mm and 12.7mm. Specialists in laying highways pay attention to these values in order to select the dimensions for a copper pipe:

couplings;
tees;
fittings with threaded connection.

Pipe fittings also have dimensions, they are indicated on the outside of the part

3 Disadvantages of copper pipes for heating systems

We should start with the main “disadvantage” of copper pipes – the very high cost. Indeed, copper is an expensive commodity. A pipe made from it is much more expensive than products made from other materials. But it is worth noting that due to the ability to produce thin-walled, and therefore very light, copper pipes, the cost of them is not so high (the price is based on the weight of a unit of metal product). At the same time, if a copper pipe is 2–4 times more expensive than a polypropylene pipe, then copper fittings are 30–50 times cheaper than plastic ones. Due to the ramifications of intra-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.

In the case of using metal-plastic pipes, a system made of copper products, especially those connected by soldering, will always be less expensive. The advantage of copper in terms of heating costs will be more noticeable, the higher the quality of the selected polypropylene or metal-plastic pipes. In addition, we must not forget about the high reliability and durability of copper systems, and the cost of their operation, which is an order of magnitude less than that of plastic ones. And when recycling a used copper pipeline, the money spent on the material is returned.

The real disadvantages include:

Relatively complex installation - in order to perform high-quality assembly of the system, extensive experience in soldering copper pipes is required.
It is prohibited to install elements made of steel, aluminum, or zinc after copper products in the direction of coolant flow to prevent corrosion processes in the latter.
When laying a monolithic pipeline inside a wall, it is necessary to use copper pipes in a plastic sheath, which protects against damage and serves as a thermal insulation layer (or provide appropriate protection for existing uncoated pipes). The problem is this: building mixtures in relation to copper can be aggressive compounds that cause corrosion; Even in the case of minimal thermal expansion of the pipe, it interacts with solid abrasive fractions of building materials.
Limitation of the coolant flow rate – recommended to 0.5 m/s (is optimal for a long service life of the system).
The pipeline must be protected from non-ferrous metal thieves - attics and basements must be locked in the building, and access to copper risers must be prevented.
Due to high thermal conductivity, areas of the heating system located outside the heated rooms should be insulated with plastic casings to reduce thermal energy losses.

Despite the disadvantages, copper pipes are a universal and most suitable product for transporting coolant. Heating systems installed from them are highly efficient and reliable. Copper pipes are an excellent alternative to plastic and steel products.

Types of Copper Pipe

There are two large groups of copper pipes: thick-walled and thin-walled. Pipes included in the first group have increased strength characteristics. They are produced using seamless and welded methods.

Pipes of the second group have found application in shipbuilding, automotive industry, aviation, i.e. where communication systems must be lightweight and highly durable. The cross-section of copper pipes can be either round, rectangular or square. As a rule, profile pipes are not used in heating systems.

Thick-walled pipes have a round cross-section, the wall thickness varies in the range of 0.8 - 10 mm. Different grades of copper are used in their production: M1, MP3, MP1 and others. The digital index here indicates the degree of purity of the alloy. This does not affect the characteristics of the pipe itself in any way. Thin-walled pipes have a wall thickness of 0.15 to 0.7 mm.

Regulatory Requirements

As expected, all production and installation processes are strictly regulated by state standards.

Production

For the production of pipe fittings, copper alloys are used, the copper content of which is determined by Russian GOST 617-2006 (instead of GOST 617-90), R 52318-2005, 859–2001, 11383-75 and the European quality standard EN 1057, and, as a rule, never less than 99.5%. The following grades of copper are distinguished:

M1. The copper content in combination with silver is 99.9%. The almost absolute purity of the alloy provides the best indicators of ductility, strength, thermal and electrical conductivity of the material. Brand M1 is recommended for heating circuits (max t working environment - 250⁰С), as well as cryogenic installations.
M2. Copper and silver content – 99.7%.
M3. - so-called technical copper, made as a result of secondary smelting or fire and electrolytic refining. Copper and silver content – 99.5%. Rolled metal of the M3 grade is characterized by good strength and affordable cost.

A decrease in the proportion of copper and an increase in the proportion of alloyed elements (nickel, tin, iron, lead, arsenic, etc.) primarily affect the electrical conductivity coefficient, significantly reducing it. The strength index remains practically unchanged.

Quality control standards are determined by GOST 24231-80 and 6507-90.

In addition to the chemical composition, the standards stipulate a number of technical conditions in accordance with which copper pipe fittings are produced:

No delamination, cracks, rust or burrs on the ends.
The inner surface of the pipes must be smooth and free of bulges that would impede the flow of the carrier. The permissible number of recesses and their size are strictly limited: no more than 2 per linear meter and up to 0.25 mm, respectively.
Diameters correspond to established standard sizes.
Support of each batch (coil) with technical documentation and labeling.

The marking is deciphered as follows:

Manufacturing technology:

D – Cold-deformed rolled.
G – Pressed.

Cross section shape:

KR (K) – Round.
PP – Rectangular.
PC – Square.
PO - Oval.

Production accuracy:

P – increased accuracy.
N – within the normal range.
K – accuracy of wall thickness.
And – reference diameter accuracy.
B – length accuracy.
O – curvature accuracy.
P – standard for stretching.
H - Vickers hardness.

Type of plasticity:

M/L – soft.
P/F – semi-solid.
T/H – hard.

Length designations:

ND – non-gauge pipeline.
MD/KD – measuring pipeline.
BT - bay.

Coil winding shape designation:

BU - ordered.
BS – spiral.

An example of decoding the markings is shown in the photo below:

Installation

Installation and operation standards are set out in SP 40-108-2004:

The connection of copper communications with pipelines made of steel and aluminum is carried out in a strictly defined sequence: in front of the copper sections in the direction of movement of the carrier. Failure to comply with this principle leads to the effect of electrochemical corrosion. There are no special restrictions regarding brass and plastic pipes.
The maximum permissible speed of the carrier in the circuit is 2 m/s.
The water hardness index should be in the range from 1.42 to 3.1 mEq/l. Other indicators deplete copper resources.

Important! Special requirements are imposed on the degree of purification of the transported liquid. The presence of solid particles in the composition reduces the service life of the pipeline, because

soft metal wears out under their influence. To prevent this problem, a mechanical cleaning filter is installed at the inlet.

Copper pipes are used in pipeline construction. They seriously compete with metal and plastic products. In accordance with GOST, copper pipes are used in hydraulic and refrigeration equipment, for transporting gas and compressed air, in hydraulic and refrigeration systems. This is due to the properties of copper: strength, resistance to corrosion and chlorine, impermeability to working fluids, including oils and fats.

What are the differences between copper pipes?

The characteristics and type of pipes are determined by the scope of application. They differ in cross-section and size, and dozens of other characteristics.

Type of copper. Pipes made from the following types of copper are used in household equipment:

Unlike pipes that have not undergone heat treatment, annealed pipes are stronger and easier to install.

Section. In addition to the standard square section, copper pipes are made rectangular and flat oval. Products with a rectangular cross-section are more difficult to manufacture due to their non-standard shape. They are used in the manufacture of stator winding conductors for liquid-cooled electrical machines.

Purpose. The scope of application determines the characteristics of copper pipes. They are used in the following areas:

in water supply, heating, gas transportation systems;
in household and industrial air conditioners, refrigerators, freezers;
in heat pumps, solar systems, heat exchangers;
in radar equipment;
in the production of fabric printing rollers, crystallizers, induction coils.

Manufacturing materials, standards. Pipes are manufactured in accordance with Russian standards - GOST, TU - and foreign standards - EN, ASTM. For production, copper alloys of various grades are used, including those alloyed with other materials (zinc, tin, aluminum, etc.) and oxygen-free alloys containing phosphorus. Copper of different degrees of hardness is used, which determines the purpose of copper pipes:

Soft. Used in beam distribution systems.
Semi-solid. To change the geometry of such pipes, a pipe bender is used.
Solid. Used in highways with increased strength requirements.

Type of insulation. Copper pipes have different types of insulation. Some are supplied without insulation, others with insulation made from the following materials:

PVC. This insulation is resistant to mechanical and chemical influences. Prevents the occurrence of corrosive processes.
Foamed polyurethane. Thermal insulation is applied at the factory. Used on copper pipes intended for pipelines with high heat saving requirements.
PE (polyethylene shell). Used on copper pipes intended for drinking water supply and heating systems.

Installation method. Copper pipes are connected in different ways. Sometimes socket capillary soldering is used for this, in which the ends of the pipes are preheated. Most often, fittings made of bronze and brass are used for installation. Connections are of the following types:

self-fixing;
threaded;
flanged compression.

For all of them there are different fittings in standard sizes to suit all types of copper pipes.

Dimensions and diameter of copper pipes

Pipes with a diameter of 10-22 mm are in greatest demand - they are used in water supply systems. Pipes with a diameter of 32-42 mm are used in drainage systems.

Typically, the diameter of copper pipes is indicated fractionally, for example, 14/1. In accordance with GOST, this designation determines the outer diameter of copper pipes and wall thickness in millimeters. Pipes 14/1 have an outer diameter of 14 mm, an inner diameter of 13 mm, and a wall thickness of 1 mm.

Supply of copper pipes

For whatever purposes you need copper pipes, you can order them from UMMC-OTsM. The pipes are manufactured at the factories Majdanpek (Serbia) and Kolchugtsvetmet (Kolchugino), meet international standards and are used in household and industrial equipment, including water supply, heating, air conditioning, etc.

Delivery is carried out in batches of at least 300 kg. Thanks to the presence of warehouses in three cities of Russia (Kolchugino, Kirov, Revda), urgent delivery of products is possible.

Good day everyone!

Plastic pipelines are almost everywhere. At the same time, the copper pipe recedes into the background. However, real connoisseurs of exceptional reliability know a lot about copper pipelines, and do not compromise on budgetary practicality at any price. We propose to understand the secret of such devotion to what seems to be a relic of the past, but in fact to the leader of pipe rolling.

On a note! Patina not only gives copper products the appearance of noble, aristocratic antiquity, but also performs a protective function. Therefore, it is not recommended to clean it.

Basic physical and chemical characteristics of copper:

High thermal conductivity.
Malleability and ductility.
Melting point - 1083⁰С.
Not susceptible to corrosion.
High electrical conductivity (2nd place among metals) and low electrical resistance.
Inert towards most substances, fungi, mold, viruses and various bacteria.
Resistance to ultraviolet radiation.

Application area

The scope of application of copper fittings is extremely wide. First of all, these are the usual cold and hot water supply and sanitation systems, gas pipelines, plumbing and heating, and “warm floor” systems. In addition, copper pipes are actively used in air conditioning systems, heat exchangers of gas water heaters, cooling circuits of refrigerators, fuel installations for various purposes (in automobile, aircraft, and shipbuilding).

The aesthetic appeal of copper piping makes it possible not to hide communications inside walls or behind panels. In light of this, copper tubes are often used as a casing for electrical wiring, simultaneously serving as an insulator and a decorative element.

Manufacturing methods and technologies

Rolling production.
Welded production.

Upon completion, the pipes can be chrome-plated, painted and covered with a polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride sheath.

Rolling production

Welded production

Regulatory Requirements

As expected, all production and installation processes are strictly regulated by state standards.

Production

M1. The copper content in combination with silver is 99.9%. The almost absolute purity of the alloy provides the best indicators of ductility, strength, thermal and electrical conductivity of the material. Brand M1 is recommended for heating circuits (max t working environment - 250⁰С), as well as cryogenic installations.
M2. Copper and silver content – 99.7%.
M3. - so-called technical copper, made as a result of secondary smelting or fire and electrolytic refining. Copper and silver content – 99.5%. Rolled metal of the M3 grade is characterized by good strength and affordable cost.

Quality control standards are determined by GOST 24231-80 and 6507-90.

In addition to the chemical composition, the standards stipulate a number of technical conditions in accordance with which copper pipe fittings are produced:

No delamination, cracks, rust or burrs on the ends.
The inner surface of the pipes must be smooth and free of bulges that would impede the flow of the carrier. The permissible number of recesses and their size are strictly limited: no more than 2 per linear meter and up to 0.25 mm, respectively.
Diameters correspond to established standard sizes.
Support of each batch (coil) with technical documentation and labeling.

The marking is deciphered as follows:

Manufacturing technology:

D – Cold-deformed rolled.
G – Pressed.

Cross section shape:

KR (K) – Round.
PP – Rectangular.
PC – Square.
PO - Oval.

Production accuracy:

P – increased accuracy.
N – within the normal range.
K – accuracy of wall thickness.
And – reference diameter accuracy.
B – length accuracy.
O – curvature accuracy.
P – standard for stretching.
N - Vickers hardness.

Type of plasticity:

M/L – soft.
P/F – semi-solid.
T/H – hard.

Length designations:

ND – non-gauge pipeline.
MD/KD – measuring pipeline.
BT - bay.

Coil winding shape designation:

BU - ordered.
BS – spiral.

An example of decoding the markings is shown in the photo below:

Installation

Installation and operation standards are set out in SP 40-108-2004:

The connection of copper communications with pipelines made of steel and aluminum is carried out in a strictly defined sequence: in front of the copper sections in the direction of movement of the carrier. Failure to comply with this principle leads to the effect of electrochemical corrosion. There are no special restrictions regarding brass and plastic pipes.
The maximum permissible speed of the carrier in the circuit is 2 m/s.
The water hardness index should be in the range from 1.42 to 3.1 mEq/l. Other indicators deplete copper resources.

Important! Special requirements are imposed on the degree of purification of the transported liquid. The presence of solid particles in the composition reduces the service life of the pipeline, because soft metal wears out under their influence. To prevent this problem, a mechanical cleaning filter is installed at the inlet.

Sections and dimensions

The most popular is copper pipe rolling with a classic round section. Pipes of non-standard rectangular cross-section are used less frequently, mainly in mechanical and instrument making or indoors, based on design considerations.

Pipe dimensions (inner and outer diameters, wall thickness) can be indicated in millimeters and inches (English unit of length equal to 25.4 mm). To make it easier to convert one value to another when choosing pipes and fittings of Russian and foreign production, special tables are used.

Often the standard size of pipes is indicated in the form of fractional markings, for example - 15/1. In this case, the numerator (first number) indicates the outer diameter, and the denominator (second number) indicates the wall thickness. The difference between the two values is the internal diameter of the pipe.

Calculation of the mass of a copper pipe

To calculate the mass of a copper pipe, the formula is used:

You can also use our weight calculator. Don’t forget to select the settings in it: pipe type – round, material – copper.

Life time

Manufacturers establish a guaranteed service life of copper pipes of about 70-80 years. However, in practice, if the operating conditions are observed, a copper pipeline can properly serve for more than one generation. Even freezing of water does not lead to a rupture of the circuit; the pipes will only expand slightly in diameter.

Advantages and disadvantages of copper pipes

The physical characteristics of copper in symbiosis with production methods determine the operational characteristics of copper pipe products, which are resistant to:

Corrosion, which not only extends the life of the pipeline, but also does not have a negative impact on the operation of plumbing fixtures.
Temperature changes while maintaining the integrity of linear parameters.
Water hammer. The operating pressure of the circuit is from 100 to 450 atmospheres.
Vibrations, due to which copper pipelines are actively used in seismically unstable regions, including for the installation of gas distribution.
UV rays (unlike thermoplastic polymers, which are destroyed by ultraviolet radiation). Copper pipeline painting is carried out solely for the purpose of adapting it to a specific interior.

Other advantages of copper pipes include:

Wide range of operating temperatures - from -200⁰С to 350⁰С (depending on the pipe manufacturing method and the type of pipeline connection).
An absolutely smooth surface that prevents the formation of build-ups of organic and inorganic origin inside the circuit, without reducing the throughput during operation, and also minimizes friction inside the circuit, which allows the use of pipes of smaller diameter without loss in the efficiency of the system.
Plasticity is a guarantee of resistance to tearing. The coefficient of relative elongation (expansion) is 10-40%.
Plasticity also facilitates installation work. Pipes can be easily bent in any direction using ordinary hand tools, which is an undeniable advantage when creating complex pipelines.
Despite all its softness, copper fittings excellently hold a given configuration, something that most plastic pipes cannot boast of.
Lighter weight compared to steel and cast iron counterparts facilitates transportation, installation and minimizes the load on the structure.
Chemical neutrality to salts, formaldehydes, methanol, and a number of acids with a pH level of no more than 9 prevents the destruction of copper. The lack of reaction with chlorine contained in tap water does not provoke the formation of oxides harmful to humans.
The bactericidal properties of copper contribute to the partial disinfection of water. In copper pipelines, not only do microorganisms not multiply, but also the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and the influenza virus of group A die.
The low electrostatic index prevents the formation of sparks, which means that copper fittings can be safely used in flammable and explosive areas.

Among the disadvantages it should be noted:

High cost, which, however, pays off over a long period of operation.
The increased coefficient of thermal conductivity, on the one hand, increases the efficiency of the heating circuit, and this is a definite plus. On the other hand, the pipes run the risk of heating up to such an extent that touching them can cause a burn. The problem is solved by using pipes in PVC or PE braid.
Condensation may form on cold water pipes. The problem is solved similarly to the previous paragraph.
High electrical conductivity. However, the risk of electric shock is neutralized by installing grounding.

Kinds

Based on wall thickness, copper pipes are divided into thin-walled and thick-walled. The first is characterized by low weight, the second by increased strength.

In addition to standard copper pipelines, plastic insulated pipes are produced, which:

Cools the surface of the pipe.
Prevents condensation.
Retains heat inside the circuit.
Reduces noise levels.

Depending on the type of final processing, rolled tubes are divided into annealed and unannealed. Visually, they are easy to distinguish from each other: annealed, as a rule, are supplied in coils up to 50 meters long, unannealed - in straight sections.

Annealed

After rolling, the pipe is fired at temperatures up to 700⁰C. This procedure increases the ductility of products, increasing the stretch coefficient, but slightly reduces the safety factor.

Unannealed

They are not subject to additional heat treatment. They are characterized by maximum strength, bending rigidity, resistance to external damage and water hammer.

According to the degree of ductility, copper pipes are classified into:

Solid (most often unannealed modifications). Marked as H, T, F30 or Z6. Recommended for the installation of central water supply channels characterized by high pressure of the working environment. In this case, the main line is predominantly straight with a minimum number of bends, which are made exclusively with the help of rotary fittings.
Semi-solid. They are designated as НН, П or Z. Strength and elasticity indicators are perfectly balanced: the elongation coefficient reaches 10%, withstands expansion of the outer diameter up to 15%. Pipe bending is done using a pipe bender. Designed for heating, cold and hot water supply.
Soft. Marked as M, F22, W or R. Elongation coefficient - up to 38%. Extension of outer diameter up to 25% is possible. The pipe configuration is easy to change with your own hands. Recommended for installation of “warm floors”.

Methods for connecting copper pipes

To assemble a copper pipeline, threadless pipe joining methods are used:

Crimping fitting pressing.

Before installation, the pipes are cut using a special cutter into pieces of the required length. It is important that the cut is perfectly even.

Soldering of pipelines

Capillary soldering is the most common and reliable method of connecting copper communications. The tightness of the soldered circuit allows the pipeline to be operated under conditions of high pressure and temperature.

An important condition for the formation of a high-quality sealed seam is the accuracy of the selection of the fitting connection. If the gap between the pipe and the fitting is more than 0.4 mm, the capillary effect does not form.

There are 2 soldering technologies:

High temperature (hot), in which soldering is carried out at a temperature of 450-700⁰С. Thin wire made of silver, bronze or copper is used as solder.
Low-temperature (cold), when the temperature regime is limited to the range of 200-250⁰С, and low-melting tin or lead is used for solder.

Due to the fact that heating changes the physical properties of copper, cold soldering is considered preferable. But it is prohibited to use lead solder for drinking water supply systems, because it is toxic. In any case, cooling of heated elements should occur naturally at room temperature.

Using a gas burner complicates the installation procedure, because requires the user to have appropriate skills. In addition, a certain amount of skill will be required to properly align the metal wire. However, the use of special copper fittings with solder already built inside makes the task much easier.

Pressing joints

The plasticity of copper allows the use of compression press fittings, crimp sleeves, clamps and flanges for joining pipes. Externally, press fittings are no different from those intended for soldering; the main difference is in the sealing method, which is ensured by:

Internal sealing belt made of polymer.
An internal copper ferrule that flattens when squeezed.
Clamping the joint with special pliers (sliding wrench).
A mounting nut that secures the clamping location.

On a note! There are 2 types of compression (collet) fittings. Type A is intended for joining solid and semi-rigid pipes; type B – for semi-hard and soft.

The disadvantage of a compression connection is the complexity of the design and the need for regular monitoring for leaks. Therefore, this joining method is chosen only when installing cold water supply systems or drains with low pressure and exclusively in areas accessible for inspection. However, the opportunity to do the work yourself and significantly save on hiring third-party specialists significantly compensates for these inconveniences.

Because Copper is susceptible to mechanical stress; copper communications should be laid in places that are maximally protected from accidental damage, or a protective box should be installed.
When laying copper communications inside walls, you should choose pipes with a polymer sheath. It will prevent the destruction of the metal.
It is better to use copper, brass or bronze fittings for connections. Other materials will cause galvanic corrosion.
Pipe joining can be done without using transition fittings. To do this, use a special pipe expander, with the help of which one section of the pipe expands to the required diameter. Then another pipe is inserted into it and soldering is carried out.
In the event of a break in a copper pipeline, turnbuckles are used as a temporary solution to eliminate the leak.