Measuring Copper Pipe
and Tubing
Face-to-face measurements are frequently
more convenient when pressure fittings are
being installed. Appropriate allowances for
fitting socket depth are shown in Figure 20-20.
When it is necessary to use center-to-center
measurements, the laying length of copper
pressure fittings is needed, Figure 20-21.
Cutting Copper Pipe and
Tubing
Copper pipe and tubing should be cut with
a tubing cutter. Slowly rotate the tubing cutter
around the pipe. Tighten the cutter 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 turn
with each revolution of the tube cutter until the
pipe is cut. Ream the cut end of the pipe to
remove the burr produced in cutting the pipe.
Joining Copper Pipe and
Tubing
The process of joining solder fittings to
copper pipe with solder involves:
• Cleaning the pipe and fitting.
• Applying flux to the end of the pipe and to
the inside of the fitting socket.
• Heating the joint.
• Applying an appropriate amount of solder.
• Cooling the joint.
Code requires that lead-free solder be used.
For additional information, see Chapter 9.
Supporting Copper Pipe
and Tubing
Horizontal runs of copper pipe should be
supported every 4′ to 6′ with copper or plastic
pipe hangers. Vertical runs of pipe should be
secured to maintain alignment.
364
Section 3 Plumbing System Design and Installation
Figure 20-20. Make allowances for these socket
depths when measuring copper pipe.
Pipe size Engagement
(in inches) (in inches)
1⁄4 5⁄16
3⁄8 3⁄8
1⁄2 1⁄2
3⁄4 3⁄4
1 15⁄16
11⁄4 1
11⁄2 11⁄8
2 13⁄8
21⁄2 11⁄2
3 111⁄16
31⁄2 115⁄16
4 23⁄16
5 211⁄16
6 31⁄8
Socket Allowances
for Copper Fittings
Figure 20-21. The laying length of selected copper fit-
tings is given in this table. (NIBCO Inc.)
45° ell
Coupling
90° ell
Tee
Fitting name Size Laying length (A)
1⁄2 3⁄32
3⁄4 3⁄32
1 3⁄32
1⁄2 9⁄32
3⁄4 11⁄32
1 3⁄8
1⁄2 3⁄8
3⁄4 17⁄32
1 23⁄32
1⁄2 11⁄32
3⁄4 1⁄2
1 11⁄16
A
A
A
A
A
A A
A
Evidence of soldering has been found in
Mesopotamian ruins. It has been determined
that the soldering was done in approximately
4000 B.C.
History Brief