Key Features of T1, T2, T3, TU1, TU2 Copper Pipes & Tubes
High Purity and Conductivity: T1 grade offers maximum electrical and thermal conductivity for demanding applications.
Enhanced Strength: T2, T3, TU1, and TU2 grades provide higher mechanical strength for use under stress.
Corrosion Resistance: All grades, especially T1 and TU2, offer excellent resistance in harsh environments.
Easy to Fabricate: These tubes are easy to form, weld, and solder, simplifying component manufacturing.
Non-toxic for Water Systems: T1 grade is safe for potable drinking water systems due to its high purity.
Versatile Applications: Suitable for plumbing, HVAC, electrical systems, and heat exchangers.
Technical Specifications of T1, T2, T3, TU1, TU2 Copper Tubes
Chemical Composition Comparison Table
| Element | T1 (%) | T2 (%) | T3 (%) | TU1 (%) | TU2 (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Copper (Cu) | ≥99.90 | ≥99.90 | ≥99.90 | ≥99.90 | ≥99.90 |
| Oxygen (O) | ≤0.05 | ≤0.05 | ≤0.05 | ≤0.05 | ≤0.05 |
| Lead (Pb) | ≤0.005 | ≤0.005 | ≤0.005 | ≤0.005 | ≤0.005 |
| Zinc (Zn) | N/A | ≤0.10 | ≤0.10 | ≤0.10 | ≤0.10 |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤0.05 | ≤0.05 | ≤0.05 | ≤0.05 | ≤0.05 |
Mechanical Properties Comparison Table
| Property | T1 | T2 | T3 | TU1 | TU2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | ≥210 | ≥250 | ≥280 | ≥240 | ≥270 |
| Yield Strength (MPa) | ≥70 | ≥90 | ≥100 | ≥85 | ≥95 |
| Elongation (%) | ≥40 | ≥30 | ≥25 | ≥30 | ≥30 |
| Hardness (HB) | 45-55 | 55-65 | 60-75 | 50-60 | 60-70 |
Physical Properties Comparison Table
| Property | T1 | T2 | T3 | TU1 | TU2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Density (g/cm³) | 8.92 | 8.92 | 8.92 | 8.92 | 8.92 |
| Electrical Conductivity (% IACS) | 97 | 96 | 94 | 95 | 93 |
| Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K) | 398 | 395 | 385 | 390 | 380 |
| Melting Point (°C) | 1083 | 1083 | 1083 | 1083 | 1083 |
Dimensional and Grade Range for Copper Pipe/Tube
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Copper Pipe/Tube |
| Standards | ASTM, AISI, JIS, DIN, EN, GB |
| Outer Diameter (OD) | 2-914mm (1/16″-36″) |
| Wall Thickness (WT) | 0.2-120mm (SCH5S-SCH160S) |
| Length | 1m, 2m, 3m, 6m, or as required |
| Grades Available | T1, T2, T3, TU1, TU2, C10100, C10200, C11000, C12200, C17200, C19200, C23000, C26000, C27000, C28000, C44300, C68700, C70600, C71500, and many more |
| Hardness Options | 1/16 hard, 1/8 hard, 3/8 hard, 1/4 hard, 1/2 hard, full hard, soft |
| Surface Finish | Mill, polished, bright, oiled, hair line, brush, mirror, sand blast, or as required |
Applications of T1, T2, T3, TU1, TU2 Copper Pipe Grades
Plumbing and Water Systems: T1 grade is commonly used for potable water systems.
Electrical and Wiring Components: T1 and TU1 are ideal for electrical wiring and conductors.
HVAC Systems: These grades are widely used in air conditioning and heating systems.
Heat Exchangers: T2 and T3 grades are used for their durability and thermal conductivity.
Industrial Machinery: TU1 and TU2 are used where strength and corrosion resistance are required.
Automotive and Marine Systems: T2 and T3 grades are used in cooling systems and marine equipment.
Packaging
The copper tubes are packed in standard export seaworthy packages to ensure safe delivery. Packaging options include:
Bundles with steel straps for smaller diameters.
Wooden boxes or crates for fragile or precision tubes.
Waterproof paper and plastic caps on both ends to prevent moisture ingress.
Custom packaging available upon request.
Labels with grade, size, quantity, and heat number on each package.
Factory Equipment
The manufacturing facility is equipped with advanced machinery to produce high-quality T1, T2, T3, TU1, and TU2 copper pipes and tubes:
Continuous casting furnaces for pure copper melting.
Extrusion presses for forming tube billets.
Cold rolling and drawing lines for precise dimensions.
Annealing furnaces for controlling hardness (soft to full hard).
Online eddy current testers for flaw detection.
Precision cutting and deburring machines.
CNC bending and end-forming equipment for custom parts (OEM/ODM service).
FAQ
Q1: What is the difference between T1 and TU2 copper tube grades for electrical applications?
T1 copper tube offers higher electrical conductivity (97% IACS) than TU2 (93% IACS), making T1 better for maximum performance electrical systems. TU2 provides higher strength for applications requiring both conductivity and mechanical durability.
Q2: Can T2 copper pipe be used as an equivalent to ASTM C12200 for HVAC systems?
Yes, T2 grade is similar to ASTM C12200 (also known as DHP copper). Both are standard choices for HVAC systems due to good thermal conductivity and brazeability. Confirm specific requirements with your engineer.
Q3: What is the best heat treatment for T3 copper tube to achieve a 1/2 hard temper?
T3 copper tube is typically cold drawn and then stress-relieved at 200-300°C to achieve a 1/2 hard temper. Full annealing at 400-650°C will produce a soft temper. Always specify the desired hardness when ordering.
Q4: What are the recommended welding processes for TU1 copper pipe in industrial applications?
TU1 grade (oxygen-free) is excellent for TIG and MIG welding. Use deoxidized filler metal like ERCu. For best results, preheat to 350-500°C for thick sections. TU1 is also suitable for brazing and soldering.
Q5: Does the T1 copper tube meet NSF/ANSI 61 for drinking water systems?
Yes, T1 grade has high purity (≥99.90% Cu) and low lead (≤0.005%), making it suitable for potable water systems. It can meet NSF/ANSI 61 requirements. Request compliance documentation for your specific project.
Q6: How do T2 and T3 copper pipes compare in yield strength for automotive cooling lines?
T3 copper tube has a minimum yield strength of 100 MPa, which is 11% higher than T2's 90 MPa. For automotive cooling lines exposed to vibration and pressure, T3's higher strength provides better durability.
Q7: What is the equivalent European standard (EN) grade to TU2 copper tube for heat exchangers?
TU2 copper tube (≥99.90% Cu, low oxygen) is equivalent to EN CW024A (Cu-OFE). Both are oxygen-free electronic grades suitable for heat exchangers and critical electronic components. Always verify the exact specification with your supplier.
Q8: Which copper tube grade, T1 or T2, is better for custom bent shapes in HVAC units?
T1 copper tube (≥40% elongation) is more ductile and easier for tight-radius bending than T2 (≥30% elongation). For HVAC units with complex serpentine coils, T1 is preferred. For less severe bends, T2 offers higher strength.
Q9: Can I get a sample of T3 copper pipe with a mirror surface finish for a marine project?
Yes, samples are available. Specify the T3 grade, required length and diameter, and "mirror surface finish" when contacting the sales team. A sample fee and shipping cost may apply, often refundable on a production order.
Q10: What is the standard lead time for a production order of TU1 copper tubes in custom sizes?
Standard lead time is 7-15 days for production orders of TU1 copper tubes after order confirmation and deposit. Custom sizes (e.g., non-standard OD or WT) may require 15-25 days. Contact the support team with your exact dimensions for a precise quote.
