1. Scope

1.1 This practice describes a procedure for making capillary joints by soldering of copper and copper alloy tube and fittings.

1.2 This procedure is applicable to pressurized systems such as plumbing, heating, air conditioning, refrigeration, mechanical, fire sprinkler, and other similar systems. ASME B31.5 and B31.9 reference the techniques used for satisfactory joint preparation. It is also used in the assembly of nonpressurized systems such as drainage, waste, and vent.

1.3 It is not applicable to the assembly of electrical or electronic systems.

1.4 Tube and fittings are manufactured within certain tolerances to provide for the small variations in dimensions associated with manufacturing practice. Applicable specifications are listed in Appendix X1.

1.5 A variety of solders are available that will produce sound, leak-tight joints. Choice of solder will depend upon the type of application and on local codes. For potable water systems, only lead-free solders shall be used, some of which are described in Specification B 32.

1.6 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information purposes only.

1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For hazard statements, see the warning statements in 6.4.1, 6.6.1, and 6.6.3.

2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.

ASTM Standards

B32 Specification for Solder Metal

B68 Specification for Seamless Copper Tube, Bright Annealed

B68M Specification for Seamless Copper Tube, Bright Annealed (Metric)

B75 Specification for Seamless Copper Tube

B75M Specification for Seamless Copper Tube (Metric)

B88 Specification for Seamless Copper Water Tube

B88M Specification for Seamless Copper Water Tube (Metric)

B280 Specification for Seamless Copper Tube for Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Field Service

B306 Specification for Copper Drainage Tube (DWV)

B447 Specification for Welded Copper Tube

B640 Specification for Welded Copper Tube for Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Service

B641 Specification for Seamless and Welded Copper Distribution Tube (Type D)

B716 Specification for Welded Copper Water Tube

B716M Specification for Welded Copper Water Tube (Metric)

B813 Specification for Liquid and Paste Fluxes for Soldering of Copper and Copper Alloy Tube

B846 Terminology for Copper and Copper Alloys

Other Documents

Keywords

assembly; capillary; cleaning; cooling; copper; corrosivity; fittings; flux; heating; reaming; soldering; Sweat joints; Capillary joints; Capillary processing; Copper alloy tube; Copper tube; Corrosive service applications--copper; Fittings; Reaming; Solder/soldering applications;

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 23.040.15 (Non-ferrous metal pipes)

DOI: 10.1520/B0828-02

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