Type M Copper for Steam Condensate

[nuuvox000]

Hello, is Type M copper okay to use for 212 °F steam condensate? This would just be normal domestic water, no chemicals added. I figured the temperature wouldn't matter much because it's so low for copper but I wanted to see if I am missing anything as far as corrosion is concerned. This would be atmospheric pressure (non-pressurized condensate). Thanks!

 

[willard3]

The only problem I can imagine is using the wrong joining method, ie. , the wrong solder.

 

[nuuvox000]

Good point, thank you.

 

[TBP]

I know a number of installations that have used copper for steam condensate piping, with no problems. I also know a few people that have suffered badly, because under certain water chemistry conditions, you can have copper being pulled-off the condensate piping, and have it plate-out on the cast iron or steel boiler, setting-up galvanic cells. If that happens, it's bad, bad news. It will look very much like oxygen pitting in your boiler and it's very difficult to deal with.

 

[berkshire]

Type M copper has the thinnest wall of all copper tubing. If it is not a pressurized application it should be ok, if there is a chance of the lines getting pressurized , then it may be prudent to look at a thicker wall copper tube.
B.E.

You are judged not by what you know, but by what you can do.

 

[nuuvox000]

Thanks for the information.