VS Metal

COPPER ADVANTAGE

	Long-term durability.
	Corrosion free.
	Biostatic - does not support bacteria growth, hence safe and hygienic.
	Joints are soldered hence no leakages.
	Versatile material, available in annealed (soft) and drawn (hard) versions.
	Fire resistant and has high melting point of 1981°F.
	Can withstand high internal working pressure.
	It can be bent and hence minimizes joints.
	Small external diameter and hence fits in tight places.
	Easy to join and install.

COMPARISONS

No.	Feature	Copper	Galvanized Iron	CPVC
1.	Durability	Highest, virtually maintenance free.	Very less, many maintenance problems.	No known track record available.
2.	Pressure Rating at 60 degree Celsius	Can withstand high internal working pressure. Burst pressure 240bar.	Can withstand good internal working pressure, but due to corrosion can substantially reduce capacity over a period of time.	10 bar, reduces with increase in temperature.
3.	Thermal expansion	Very negligible.	Low	Highest, causes fatigue and failure.
4.	Temperature resistance	-195 to +205 degree Celsius.	Good	+82 degree Celsius.
5.	Leak proof	100% throughout life of plumbing system	Prone to leakages	Prone to leakages
6.	Corrosion resistance	Yes	No	Yes
7.	Jointing system	Soldering system, very reliable	Threaded joints, corrosion starts from these joints	Cement solvent
8.	Proven performance and track record	Excellent track record for 100 years	Poor performance and track record	No proven data available
9.	Versatility	Can be used for multiple purposes, cab be bent and assembled on site.	Cannot be bent on site	Cannot be bent on site

MARKET TRENDS

In developing countries like India, copper plumbing has a market share of only 4% as compared to 80% in developed countries.

Research indicates a growth of 100% in copper plumbing in India every year, the scope for the use is tremendous, as the plumbing systems in India are obsolete, prone to leakages, corrosion and involve high maintenance costs.

FAQ's

Is skilled manpower required for installation of soldered joints?

Soldering is not a highly skilled job, basic training is sufficient for installation. Jointing methods are shown on our website. Incase you require trained plumbers kindly contact us.

The green layer that forms on copper, is it due to corrosion and does it support bacterial growth?

This is a misconception. The green layer that forms on copper is a naturally occurring protective copper oxide layer called ‘Patina’, which is non-toxic and does not affect the quality of water at all.

In what sizes are copper tubes and fittings available?

Copper tubes and fittings are available from 15mm to 159mm diameter.

Copper being a softer material than GI can it withstand pressure?

Yes, copper pipes used for plumbing are made to hard tempers according to relevant standards for usage and have excellent pressure handling capacities.

Does copper require insulation for hot water lines? What is used for insulation?

Copper pipes do require insulation, which can be provided during installation. Asbestos strips or rubber nitrile insulation products (Armaflex, Aeroflex, etc) can be used for insulation.

Is copper plumbing leak proof?

Yes, as copper plumbing uses soldering process, which is simple, and leak proof. Joints can be tested by conducting a pressure test for any leakages in the system.

Are copper fittings compatible with other GI and CP fittings?

Yes, they are compatible.

What are the costs incurred for copper plumbing as compared to GI?

For a standard bathroom of 8 ft x 6 ft the difference in cost on material, will be Rs. 800/- to 1000/- only, as compared to GI.

Are copper plumbing systems easily available in India?

Yes.

Which are the Indian standards for copper plumbing?

The Indian standard that have been defined for copper plumbing tubes are termed IS14810. Plumbing tubes that meet these standards are available in India.