Building Products -> Water Plumbing
 
Copper is by far the world's most preferred choice for plumbing pipe material. Copper, a stable, natural, and recyclable material, has been used continuously in piping for over 2000 years.

Copper tube offers versatility and performance like no other plumbing material. Plumbing systems can be fabricated at the site, taking advantage of copper's flexibility.

Copper tubes have a large margin of safety which allows them to withstand pressure and temperature peaks. The strength and light weight of copper tube and fittings means fewer hangars for support and alignment.

Unlike plastics, copper tube is impervious to leached petrochemicals or solvents that may be present in the ground or used as cleaning agents and pesticides. These chemicals can be absorbed in plastic pipe systems and can severely affect the safety of the water supply.

Only copper permits economical on-site fabrication of bends, tees, and junctions in pipework without affecting system performance and quality.

The advantages of copper plumbing tube for water delivery include the following:

- Ease of installation
- Ease of joining and manipulation (bending)
- Ease of fabrication
- High strength
- High ductility
- Corrosion resistance
- Suitability for potable waters
- Potential as a bactericide
- Biofouling resistance
- Availability in a range of sizes compatible with fittings
 
 
 
©2010 International Copper Association