C23000 copper pipe (ASTM B111 standard) is a high-copper brass alloy, also known as "red brass" or "low-zinc brass." Its copper content is approximately 84-86% and its zinc content is 14-16%, resulting in a distinctive reddish-yellow appearance and balanced physical properties.
Core Characteristics of ASTM B111 C23000 Copper Pipe for AC
1.1 Chemical Composition of ASTM B111 C23000 Copper Pipe for Soldering
| Element | Composition (% Weight) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Copper (Cu) | 84.0 - 86.0 | Includes Silver (Ag) |
| Zinc (Zn) | Remainder | |
| Lead (Pb) | 0.05 max | |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.05 max | |
| Other Impurities | 0.15 max each | |
| Total Impurities | 0.50 max | Sum of all impurities |
1.2 Physical and Mechanical Properties of ASTM B111 C23000 Aircon Copper Pipe
Color: Reddish-yellow (similar to copper), with a metallic luster after polishing, suitable for decorative purposes.
Density: Approximately 8.75 g/cm³.
Melting Point: 900-940°C.
Conductivity: Approximately 28% of pure copper, suitable for low-current conductivity.
Thermal Conductivity: Excellent, suitable for radiators and heat exchange components.
Hardness (HV): Approximately 60-80 in the annealed state, reaching 120-150 after cold working. Tensile Strength: Approximately 250-300 MPa in the annealed state, increasing to 400-450 MPa after cold working.
Elongation: ≥45% in the annealed state, approximately 10-15% after cold working (high plasticity).
1.3 Corrosion Resistance of ASTM B111 C23000 Aircon Copper Pipe
General Environments: Excellent corrosion resistance in dry air, neutral water, or oil.
Humid/Corrosive Environments: Low zinc content, less prone to dezincification corrosion than high-zinc brasses (such as C26000).
Avoid prolonged contact with seawater, acidic media, or chlorine-containing environments. Otherwise, surface treatment (such as nickel plating or painting) is required.
Main Applications of ASTM B111 C23000 Insulated Copper Pipe
2.1 Construction and Decoration
Decorative Hardware: Door handles, lamp brackets, architectural trim (the red copper color is attractive and oxidation-resistant). Art Sculpture: Outdoor sculpture substrates (requires rust-proof coating).
2.2 Electrical and Electronics
Conductive Components: Plug contacts, connectors (for low-current applications).
Heat Dissipation Components: Heat sinks, condensers (better thermal conductivity than stainless steel).
2.3 Industrial Manufacturing
Cold Stamped Parts: Springs, gaskets, bellows (rely on high ductility).
Plumbing Accessories: Valves, pipe fittings (suitable for freshwater systems).
2.4 Consumer Goods
Musical Instrument Parts: Trumpet pistons, saxophone keys (excellent resonance).
Imitation Gold: Medals, jewelry (lower cost than pure copper and easier to machine details).




Processing and Treatment Recommendations
Cold Working: Suitable for stamping and drawing. Annealing is required after work hardening (annealing temperature 500-700°C).
Welding: Silver brazing or argon arc welding is recommended to avoid zinc vapor volatilization (zinc boiling point 907°C).
Surface Treatment
Chemical Polishing: Enhances the coppery luster.
Electroplating with Nickel/Chromium: Improves wear and corrosion resistance.
Passivation: Protects against oxidation in outdoor environments.
Comparison with Other Brasses
| Grade | Copper Content (%) | Typical Properties | Application Differences |
|---|---|---|---|
| C23000 | 84-86 | High ductility, reddish color, medium strength | Decorative parts, cold stamping parts, low-current conductivity |
| C26000 | 68-71 | High strength, bright yellow, fatigue resistant | Springs, screws, high-load structural parts |
| C22000 | 88-91 | Closer to pure copper, excellent ductility | High plasticity requirements (e.g., cartridge cases) |
| H62 | 60-63 | High strength, low cost, poor plasticity | Valves, screws and other general structural parts |
Notes
Environmental Performance: Lead content ≤ 0.05%, RoHS and REACH compliant, suitable for food contact (additional certification required).
Storage: Avoid contact with acidic or salt spray environments to prevent oxidation and discoloration.
C23000 brass rod, with its coppery luster, excellent ductility, and moderate strength, is an ideal choice for architectural decoration, electronic components, cold-stamped parts, and other applications. Its low zinc content reduces the risk of dezincification, but surface protection is still required in corrosive environments. When selecting a brass rod, consider the balance between conductivity, processing performance, and cost, optimizing its performance based on the specific application.
why choose us

Professional copper pipe supplier
As a professional enterprise dedicated to global copper product trade since 2008, GNEE Metal Group deeply recognizes the quality and responsibility embodied in the ASTM B111 standard. This standard not only specifies chemical composition and mechanical properties but also represents a comprehensive quality commitment spanning manufacturing processes to testing and verification. GNEE solemnly assures global customers that every ASTM B111-standard condenser tube and copper alloy tubing we supply will strictly adhere to its requirements for seamless manufacturing, annealing treatment, eddy current testing, and various mechanical performance tests.
Contact us today for a quotation:sales@gneesteel.com
Packaging and shipping
GNEE offers professional packaging for exported copper pipes. First, we apply anti-rust oil and plastic film to prevent oxidation. Then, we securely strap with steel straps and add corner protectors. Finally, we place the pipes on wooden pallets and reinforce them with iron or wooden boxes, ensuring they are moisture-proof and impact-resistant during ocean transport, while facilitating easy loading and unloading. All packaging meets export standards.





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