Causes of Copper Corrosion in Plumbing Systems
FR/R0007
Revised September 2010

Copper tubes for conveying water were first used around 2750 BC but it was not until the industrial revolution that use of thick wall tube, jointed by means of screw threads, became widespread. In the 1930s, the development of thin wall tube with capillary and compression fittings made the use of copper pipes more competitive and they are now the most popular plumbing material for potable water and heating systems. Nevertheless, corrosion problems with copper pipes have been reported from time to time. The majority of these problems have arisen from inadequate water treatment, installation defects or the actions of the end-user. This Guide provides a review of conditions likely to cause corrosion of copper pipes and alloys and provides advice on how to avoid those conditions.

This review provides an introduction to: -

• The history of copper products in water supply applications
• An introduction to copper corrosion processes
• A description of the conditions that are likely to give rise to cuprosolvency and blue water.
• Detailed information on pitting corrosion of copper pipes, fittings and cylinders
• A description of problems associated with the corrosion of brass and gunmetal water supply products

This review contains 9 photographs and figures, a glossary of technical terms and a list of reference documents that provide more detail on corrosion processes, studies of corrosion, advice on use of copper products as well as relevant standards and regulations.

Copies of the report are available from the Foundation, price £15.00, less 20% to FWR members.

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