Exposed copper (for water) OK in industrial building? 2

[bentov]

Does code allow the use of exposed copper tubing for water delivery system inside an industrial building? And for compressed air also?

 

[TBP]

Copper water lines are very common for industrial service. If it's relatively cold water, the lines can sweat during the summer, resulting in drips that can cause problems with other equipment or slippery floors. Insulating the lines is the usual solution.

Copper piping for compressed air service is sometimes used. In many general industrial plants, the joints are often soft soldered. I've had several inspectors tell me that this isn't strictly prohibited by code, but I wouldn't do it. These joints can fail if there's a fire in the plant, as there's no liquid in the pipe to keep them cool. If you're using copper for compressed air, have somebody licenced under Section IX silver solder the joints.

 

[gmorin]

Agreed. We use copper for some clients.

Be advised, however, that I've had more than one contractor provide a zero cost option to use socket weld schedule 10S stainless for air systems instead of copper (power plant applications). They apparently prefered a stainless socket weld to a solder joint.