What is the difference between Type K, L and M copper tubes?

Type K has the thickest wall, Type L is medium wall and Type M is thinner wall. Selection depends on pressure, application and plumbing code requirements.

Copper Pipes & Tubes Manufacturer | C10100, C11000, C12200 | ASTM B88 / B280 / EN 1057

Q: Which grade is preferred for HVAC brazing – C11000 or C12200?

C12200 (Cu-DHP) is typically preferred for HVAC/ACR due to improved brazability and reduced hydrogen embrittlement risk.

Product Overview

Copper Tube Systems engineered for performance, brazability and long service life

R V Metal Corporation supplies seamless copper pipes, tubes and coils for HVAC/ACR refrigeration circuits, medical gas pipeline systems (MGPS), plumbing networks and industrial engineering. For HVAC and pressure service tubing, Deoxidized High Phosphorus copper (Cu-DHP / UNS C12200) is widely preferred due to its strong brazability and improved resistance to hydrogen embrittlement compared to oxygen-bearing grades. For electrical/high-conductivity applications, Electrolytic Tough Pitch copper (Cu-ETP / UNS C11000) is commonly specified. For critical vacuum/electronics applications requiring very high purity and oxygen-free characteristics, OFE copper (UNS C10100) is used.

Standards

ASTM B88, ASTM B280, EN 1057, IS 2501 (as applicable).

Forms

Straight lengths, coils (LWC/PCC), capillary tubing, custom cut lengths.

Traceability

Heat/lot traceability, MTCs, inspection support on request.

Technical Specifications

Master Specification Chart

Parameter	Specification
Grades	C10100 (OFE) – Oxygen-Free Electronic copper for high purity applications C11000 (ETP) – Electrolytic Tough Pitch for high electrical conductivity C12200 (DHP) – Deoxidized High Phosphorus copper for brazing/HVAC/plumbing; improved resistance to hydrogen embrittlement
Standards	ASTM B88, ASTM B280, EN 1057, IS 2501 (as applicable to application and size range)
Temper Range	Soft Annealed O60 • Half Hard H02 • Hard H04
Size Range (OD)	1/4" to 10" (≈ 6.35 mm to 254.0 mm) – subject to product form and standard
Units	All dimensions supported in mm and inches on drawings, MTC and packing lists

Need project-specific tolerances, cleanliness, or test plan? Request a quote with your standard + service condition.

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Metallurgy

Chemical Composition

Element	Typical
Cu	≥ 99.99%
O	≤ 0.0005%
Notes	Oxygen-free; used where conductivity + purity are critical.

Element	Typical
Cu	≥ 99.90%
O	Typically 0.02–0.04% (grade dependent)
Notes	High electrical conductivity; not preferred for hydrogen-reducing brazing atmospheres.

Element	Typical
Cu	≥ 99.90% (remainder)
P	0.015–0.040%
Notes	Deoxidized grade improves brazability; reduces risk of hydrogen embrittlement in many joining conditions.

FAQ

Common Procurement & Technical Questions

What is the difference between Type K, Type L, and Type M copper tubes?

Type K has the thickest wall, Type L is medium wall, and Type M is thinner wall (commonly used where permitted by local plumbing codes). Selection depends on pressure, corrosion allowance and installation code. Share service pressure + application and we’ll recommend the compliant option.

Which grade is preferred for HVAC brazing – C11000 or C12200?

C12200 (Cu-DHP) is typically preferred for HVAC/ACR because phosphorus deoxidation improves brazability and reduces susceptibility to hydrogen embrittlement compared to oxygen-bearing ETP copper in certain reducing atmospheres.

Do you provide MTC (Mill Test Certificate) and traceability?

Yes. We can provide MTC with chemistry/mechanical properties (as applicable), heat/lot traceability, dimensional checks and inspection records depending on the product and order requirement.

Can you supply in both metric and imperial dimensions?

Yes. We support OD/WT in mm and inches on drawings, packing lists and documentation. Share your standard (ASTM/EN/IS) to align tolerances and temper.