Hydronic Pipe Materials
Hydronic Pipe Materials
(OP)
In hydronic piping systems, my company has always specified copper pipe for sizes 2-1/2" and smaller and black steel for 3" and larger. No one at the firm really knows where the separation came from. Is it just cost? Are there other notable differences?
If copper pipe is cheaper at larger sizes, or steel at smaller, is there any reason not to change the spec?
If copper pipe is cheaper at larger sizes, or steel at smaller, is there any reason not to change the spec?





RE: Hydronic Pipe Materials
RE: Hydronic Pipe Materials
RE: Hydronic Pipe Materials
RE: Hydronic Pipe Materials
The switch-over from copper to steel pipe is a matter of capital cost plus fabrication labour versus maintenance cost/risk in balance. Threaded carbon steel pipe could be used at the smaller sizes (1/2 through 2"), whereas Victaulic grooved end pipe/fittings are often used at the larger sizes. Threaded, done properly with the correct sealant system, will serve very well, but done poorly it may leak. Copper pipe will stay tight guaranteed, and is less labour to install than threaded steel- but the fittings and pipe cost significantly more, particularly at the large sizes. Now that copper has soared in price, you may start seeing more threaded used again. For one thing, there'd be much less risk of having the material stolen off your jobsite!