Hard drawn copper pipe offers reliable strength, uniform wall thickness, and solid corrosion resistance for water supply lines, HVAC, and various fabrication tasks. This guide highlights five top options from ICS Industries and Online Metals that are readily available to American buyers. Each selection features Type L or Type M hard copper, noted for durability and regulatory compliance in drinking water systems. The following sections summarize what makes each product suitable, along with practical considerations for installation and compatibility.
| Product | Brand | Diameter (OD) | Length | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICS Industries – 1″ Type L Hard Copper 5 ft | ICS Industries | 1-1/8″ OD | 5 ft | Type L, UL/NSF compliant for drinking water |
| ICS Industries – 1″ Type M Hard Copper 5 ft | ICS Industries | 1-1/8″ OD | 5 ft | Type M, robust for general plumbing |
| ICS Industries – 3/4″ Type M Hard Copper 5 ft | ICS Industries | 7/8″ OD | 5 ft | Type M, scalable for smaller runs |
| ICS Industries – 2″ Type M Hard Copper 5 ft | ICS Industries | 2-1/8″ OD | 5 ft | Type M, larger-diameter for higher flow |
| 122 Copper Round Tubing, Hard Drawn | Online Metals | 7/8″ OD | 12″ (short length sample) | High ductility and welding/brazing suitability |
Note: All items listed are standard hard drawn copper tubes suitable for a range of plumbing and fabrication tasks. They are commonly used in cold-water supply lines, heating applications, and DIY projects, with varying diameters to fit different fittings and systems. Always verify local codes and compatibility with your specific project before purchasing.
ICS Industries 1-Inch Type L Hard Copper 5 Ft
Type L copper tube from ICS Industries is described as seamless and hard drawn, meeting ASTM B88 standards with alloy 12200. It is suitable for drinking water supplies at pH 6.5 and above, with Underwriters Laboratories (UL) evaluation and NSF classification to regulatory requirements. The product comes in a straight cut length with +/- 5% cutting tolerance, which is helpful for precise installation. This option is ideal for mid-size projects requiring dependable water-tine performance and moderate internal pressure handling.
Key details: seamless Type L copper water tube, UL/NSF compliance, 1″ nominal size with 1-1/8″ outer diameter, 5 ft length, straight cut tolerance. It is designed for durability in common plumbing environments and supports soldering and brazing methods used in residential and commercial systems.
ICS Industries 1-Inch Type M Hard Copper 5 Ft
This Type M hard copper tube from ICS Industries provides similar UL/NSF compliance as Type L, with an emphasis on slightly different wall thickness suitable for various pressure and water quality scenarios. It is targeted at residential plumbing runs, service lines, and indoor installations where good bending tolerance and robust corrosion resistance are required. The 5 ft straight length with a +/- 5% cutting tolerance makes it convenient for on-site cutting and fitting with standard copper fittings.
Key details: seamless Type M copper water tube, ASTM B-88, 1″ nominal size with 1-1/8″ OD, 5 ft, hard drawn and straight cut. It supports common soldering/brazing techniques and is appropriate for drinking water systems meeting regulatory standards.
ICS Industries 3/4-Inch Type M Hard Copper 5 Ft
The 3/4-inch Type M option from ICS Industries serves smaller diameter needs with the same benchmarking for durability and regulatory alignment as larger sizes. It is well-suited for compact plumbing runs, under-sink connections, and appliance installations where space constraints are a factor. The catalog notes include UL and NSF references, reinforcing suitability for potable water systems with standard pH ranges. The 5 ft length and straight-cut tolerance enable clean, precise installations in restricted spaces.
Key details: Type M copper water tube, ASTM B-88, 7/8″ OD, 5 ft length, seamless and hard drawn, compliant for drinking water applications. Suitable for soldering and crimping in tight installations.
ICS Industries 2-Inch Type M Hard Copper 5 Ft
This larger-diameter hard copper tube from ICS Industries expands the range for higher-flow plumbing runs and industrial-like installations. Type M tubing is documented for uniform wall thickness and compatibility with standard fittings, brazing, and soldering methods. The 5 ft length accommodates mid-scale projects without excessive waste, while the 2-1/8″ outer diameter ensures robust service in commercial or multi-unit housing applications. Regulatory notes reference ANSI/NSF standards and UL verification for potable-water suitability.
Key details: Type M copper water tube, ASTM B-88, 2-1/8″ OD, 5 ft length, seamless and hard drawn, suitable for drinking water systems and higher-flow requirements.
122 Copper Round Tubing, Hard Drawn
122 copper, often referred to as a standard hard-drawn round tubing, offers high ductility and good corrosion resistance in water environments. It is commonly used in piping, architectural applications, heat exchangers, and jewelry-related fabrication for its formability and welding/brazing friendliness. The listing specifies an OD of 7/8″ with a 0.745″ ID and a 0.065″ wall. This size is versatile for custom projects, where pre-cut lengths can be joined to fit unique configurations or decorative installations.
Key details: hard drawn copper tube, 7/8″ OD, 0.745″ ID, 0.065″ wall, 12″ length sample, strong welding/brazing compatibility, versatile for multiple applications.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Tube Type and Standard: Type L offers thicker walls than Type M, often preferred for long runs and higher pressure. Type M is a economical option with adequate strength for many residential applications. Confirm ASTM B88 compliance and UL/NSF approvals for potable water use.
- Diameter and Wall Thickness: OD and ID determine fit with fittings and overall system pressure. Larger diameters provide greater flow but require compatible connectors and space. Match wall thickness to expected pressure and temperature conditions.
- Length and Cutting Tolerance: Straight lengths with +/- 5% tolerance reduce on-site waste and cut adjustments. Plan for the total run length and anticipate extra material for fittings, bends, and waste.
- Regulatory Compliance: UL and NSF classifications help ensure safety for drinking water systems. If the water pH is below 6.5, consider appropriate corrosion controls as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Material Quality and Compatibility: Ensure copper composition (Alloy 12200) and manufacturing processes meet your project’s requirements for soldering/brazing, welding, and environmental exposure.
- Application Type: For HVAC, hot water, or cooling loops, verify that the chosen tube can withstand operating temperatures and compatible brazing alloys. For decorative or low-pressure runs, lighter-duty tubing may be sufficient.
- Availability and Lead Time: Stock status and delivery options may affect project timelines. Larger diameters can be less common in stock, so verify availability with the seller.
This selection emphasizes practical options for typical American plumbing and DIY contexts. When planning a project, cross-check the pipe sizes with fittings, valves, and joining methods you intend to use, and consider ordering a small quantity for testing fit before purchasing in bulk.