Material behavior: Is the statement accurate that copper pipe is brittle and therefore prone to fracture from building settlement unless joints are highly flexible?

Introduction / Context:
Selecting piping materials requires basic knowledge of mechanical properties. Copper is widely used for potable water, HVAC refrigerant lines, and medical gases. The claim that copper pipe is brittle mischaracterizes a material known for ductility and toughness (within its design envelope). This item clarifies copper’s behavior and practical jointing choices relative to building movement and settlement.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Copper tubing comes in tempers (hard-drawn vs annealed) and types (K, L, M) with different wall thicknesses.
• Common joints are soldered, brazed, or mechanically compressed; bends may be formed in softer tempers.
• Buildings can experience limited settlement or thermal movement.

Concept / Approach:
Copper exhibits good ductility and can accommodate modest strain through bending, expansion loops, and compliant joints. While any material can fail if overstressed or poorly supported, labeling copper as “brittle” is inaccurate. Proper support spacing, allowance for thermal expansion, and use of flexible connectors where required mitigate movement-induced stresses without relying on “highly flexible” joints everywhere.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Manufacturer manuals and plumbing codes provide support spacing tables and expansion loop guidance. Field experience confirms copper’s robustness in typical building movements when installed correctly.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Correct” reverses copper’s known ductility. Claims tied to temper, temperature, or specific type as “brittle” generalizations are misleading; extremes may affect performance but do not redefine copper as brittle.

Common Pitfalls:
Rigidly fixing long runs without expansion provisions; overheating joints causing annealing where not intended; insufficient support leading to vibration fatigue near equipment.

Final Answer:
Incorrect