What Is TP1 Copper
TP1 is a type of phosphorus-deoxidized copper. During the copper smelting process, trace amounts of phosphorus are added as a deoxidizing agent to remove oxygen from the molten copper, thereby improving its toughness and corrosion resistance. Compared with pure copper, TP1 has a higher recrystallization temperature, maintaining better strength and shape stability at elevated temperatures, along with enhanced resistance to high-temperature oxidation.
Equivalent Grades
TP1 is recognized as C12000 in the American UNS system, CW024A in Europe, C1201 in Japan, and approximately Cu-DHP at the low-phosphorus end in the ISO system, with the Chinese designation TP1 per GB/T 5231.
Applications
In refrigeration and air conditioning, TP1 tubes connect compressors to condensers and evaporators, adapting to the operating temperatures inside air conditioning systems. In heat exchangers and radiators, copper tubes serve as heat transfer elements in power generation, chemical, and shipbuilding industries, and are used in car radiators and power plant condensers. In water supply and gas systems, purple copper tubes are antibacterial, corrosion resistant, and long lasting, making them the preferred material for cold and hot water pipes in high-end buildings. In industrial piping for chemicals, food, and pharmaceuticals, copper tubes are used for their corrosion resistance and non-toxicity. Copper tubes also serve bearings, bushings, hydraulic pipelines, and electrical components requiring high conductivity.
Type K, L, and M Tubes
In plumbing and HVAC standards, copper tubing is classified into three main types by wall thickness. Type K has the thickest wall, is the strongest and most durable, and is used for underground burial, high-pressure applications, and maximum protection. Type L has a medium wall and is the most common, versatile type for residential and commercial water supply lines and many HVAC applications. Type M has the thinnest wall and is suitable for above-ground, low-pressure residential water lines. For half-inch tube, Type K has a wall of 0.049 inches, Type L 0.040 inches, and Type M 0.028 inches, with the outside diameter identical for all types at a given nominal size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between TP1 and TP2?
A: TP1 has low residual phosphorus, 0.004 to 0.012 percent, versus 0.015 to 0.040 percent for TP2.
Q: Can C12000 be welded easily?
A: Yes, TP1 can be welded and brazed with excellent results.
Q: What is TP1 used for?
A: Refrigeration, heat exchangers, water supply, and industrial piping.
Q: Which tube type is strongest?
A: Type K, with the thickest wall for underground and high pressure.
Q: What is the conductivity of TP1?
A: About 85 percent IACS.
Q: Is TP1 suitable for drinking water?
A: Yes, subject to applicable water quality standards.
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