The Difference Between Copper and Brass Fittings

When working on a plumbing project, you want to ensure the materials you choose will work. If you cut corners on quality, you may deal with more significant issues in the future. You have a choice to make. We break down the difference between copper and brass fittings so that you can choose the best option.

What Are the Differences?

There are plenty of differences between the two fittings, even though copper makes up brass. Use copper for:

• Applications that require a tight seal
• Drinking water supply lines
• Underground service lines
• Refrigerant lines for HVAC systems

Brass is also excellent for various applications, including:

• Water removal lines and drains
• Water supply lines
• Gas lines (this application depends on building regulations)
• Projects with lots of joints and bends

Copper requires special tools to bend, whereas brass doesn’t. If you’re on a tight budget, brass may be the better option because it’s less expensive. Copper has more dimensions and fittings available, which may mean copper is the best option for your project.

What Is Brass?

Brass is an aesthetically pleasing combination of zinc and copper that resembles gold. There are plenty of benefits that brass brings to the table. Since it has zinc, it’s a stronger alloy than copper, and it’s incredibly versatile for fittings when used in areas where it excels. Plumbing is the industry where brass fittings shine.

Brass can easily handle scorching hot temperatures, but cold is a different story. There’s also still a tiny amount of lead in brass. However, there’s no need to worry about corrosion due to the high quality of brass.

What Is Copper?

Copper is an alloy that has existed for centuries. It’s highly resistant to corrosion and deserves an honorable mention for its strength and conductivity. The Greeks believed copper could purify water due to its unique antimicrobial properties.

Copper is incredibly lightweight, which is why many industries love to utilize it. This material has held up extraordinarily well in the modern world.

Take time to examine these differences between copper and brass fittings to make an educated decision for your project. Look to Craft Supply for your wholesale brass fittings. Our quality collection will mean you’ll find the right fittings for the task.