What tempers of copper tubes are covered in this standard?

The standard covers tubes in annealed (O), half-hard (HB), and hard (HD) conditions.

What physical tests are mandatory for these copper tubes?

Mandatory tests typically include the tensile test, flattening test, drifting test, and hydraulic test.

Is this code applicable for domestic water piping?

While it covers general engineering, IS 288 is more specifically tailored for copper tubes used in water supply.

IS 2501

: 1963

Copper tubes for general engineering purposes

WithdrawnSpecializedSpecificationMaterials Science · Aluminium and Non-Ferrous Metals

Superseded by IS 12444:1993, IS 15450:2004 (partially)

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This standard specifies the requirements for solid drawn copper tubes intended for general engineering purposes. It details the required chemical composition, mechanical properties (in various tempers), dimensional tolerances, and mandatory testing procedures such as flattening, drifting, and hydraulic tests.

Specified requirements for copper tubes used in general engineering applications before specific standards were developed.

Quick Reference Values

minimum copper content99.85% (for standard grades)

tensile strength annealedMin 20 kgf/mm²

tensile strength half hardMin 25 kgf/mm²

elongation annealedMin 40%

hydraulic test pressureTypically 1.5 times the working pressure

Practical Notes

Ensure the correct temper (annealed, half-hard, or hard) is specified based on the required bending or machining operations during fabrication.

This standard is for general engineering; do not use it for specialized applications like refrigeration (IS 10773) or dedicated electrical purposes unless specified.

Always verify the hydraulic test pressure requirements with the manufacturer if the tubes are intended for pressurized fluid transport.