How to Cool Copper Tubing

Copper tubing is not hard to cool.

Copper is perhaps one of the oldest and most durable forms of metal in existence. Its versatility and malleability, along with its non-corrosive nature, make it the top choice for professionals in plumbing and air conditioning industries. It is available in drawn and annealed tempers, or hard and soft as it is generally referred to in the industry. Copper is also economical and lightweight and comes in a variety of different wall sizes.

Instructions

1. Determine the copper tube type you will be cooling. Copper tubing is split into six main types and categorized by its temper and the applications for which it will be used. Copper tubing types were established by the American Society for Testing and Materials.

2. Familiarize yourself with the techniques for brazing and soldering copper tubing, as this is the primary reason people choose to "cool" copper tubing. Generally, most

   soldering of copper tubing is done at temperatures from between 350 to 600 F in order to form joints.

3. Allow copper tubing to cool naturally after soldering it to form joints. Shock cooling it, by dousing it with cold water, can weaken the strength of the joint.

4. Clean off any residual flux with a damp rag once the tubing has cooled.

References

• Copper: The Copper Tube Handbook