Are you wondering which type of pipe fittings suits your plumbing needs? Considering both performance and durability, choosing between brass and copper fittings can be tricky.
Both materials have unique qualities, uses, and limitations. So, in this article, we’ll discuss every detail to help you determine which fitting type is suitable for you.
A little about Brass Fittings
Brass is a blend of copper and zinc. It is yellow and known for its strength, endurance, and resistance to rust.
In contrast to copper fittings, brass has fast, cost-efficient, and scalable production. Its malleability enables the manufacturing of intricate forms, making it the preferred option for crafting intricate parts like Adaptor Fittings and Valve bodies. This adaptability to complex designs has made brass widely accessible in the market, making it a top choice for diverse uses. You can get a whole range of brass fittings from different pipe manufacturers.
Like copper, brass fittings are commonly employed in water supply, heating, and gas systems. Available in various sizes and shapes, they can be used for multiple applications, from residential to commercial plumbing setups.
A little about Copper Fittings
Copper is an incredible metal known for its amazing ability to conduct heat and electricity. It doesn’t rust easily, which makes it perfect for plumbing because it helps keep our water clean by preventing contamination. That’s why it’s so widely used in plumbing fittings.
Using copper to manufacture complex fittings can be tricky, as you’ll need to limit the shapes of the fittings you’ll find. Usually, you’ll come across simple ones like elbows, tees, and couplings because more complex shapes are tricky to make with copper. Many pipe manufacturers offer several types of copper fittings.
Still, copper fittings are essential for water supply, heating systems, and gas lines. They come in all sizes and shapes and are known for being tough and reliable. That’s why they’re often the first choice when dealing with high-pressure situations.
Where to use Copper fittings?
- In drinking water supplies (hot or cold)
- HVAC lines
- At places where you need a tight seal
- Capillary Fittings: Though technical, they’re reliable and perfect for high-pressure fittings.
- Copper Push Fit Fittings: Known for their ease of installation, they’re great for household use.
- Copper Press Fittings: They are quick and straightforward to install, making them suitable for commercial and residential uses.
Where to use Brass Fittings?
Brass fittings are not as common as copper fittings, and you’ll see copper fittings in:
- Non-drinkable water pipelines
- Removal and drain lines
- Fixtures
- Compression Fittings: They are easy to install and remove, making them popular for commercial and DIY projects, especially those requiring frequent maintenance.
- Adaptor Fittings: Typically used to connect different systems or other plumbing components like valves or pumps.
Compatibility of Copper and Brass fittings
When deciding between Copper and Brass fittings for your plumbing system, it’s important to consider how the material will work with the other parts of the system. Copper and Brass fittings have compatibility factors you need to know about.
Brass Fittings
Brass fittings are more versatile than copper and can work with a wider range of materials. They’re usually Brass Compression Fittings. It can also be used with plastic pipes, but you’ll need the correct connectors. Usually, you’ll need an insert to support the Olive when it bites onto the pipe.
Unlike copper, brass fittings can be safely connected to steel pipes without worrying about galvanic corrosion since brass naturally acts as an insulator between the two metals.
Copper Fittings
Copper fittings are typically paired with copper pipes since they are made from the same material. This creates solid joints when soldered together.
You need to be careful if you’re connecting copper fittings to other materials like plastic pipes. Usually, only push-fit connectors are suitable for this setup.
However, it’s not a good idea if you’re considering joining copper fittings to steel pipes due to the risk of galvanic corrosion. You might use a dielectric union to work around this issue, but many folks opt for Brass Fittings instead.
Which fitting is EnvironmEnvironmenty?
Copper and brass fittings are fantastic for the environment. They’re super easy to recycle. Plus, when they’re made, they use a bunch of recycled material, which is environmentally friendly. So, toss your fittings in the recycling bin when replacing them! That way, you’re doing your part to reduce waste and give these materials a second chance.
Parting Words
To wrap it up, copper and brass fittings offer various benefits and have different uses. Now, whether you should go for brass fittings or copper fittings, the decision is yours! However, our guide will help you a lot in making that decision. There is a professional fitting manufacturer with 20 years of experience in China. Please get in touch with us if you have any further requirements.
