Copper Pipes & Fittings Explained: Sizes, Tube Types (460), SABS, and How to Choose Correctly

Copper pipes and fittings remain one of the most trusted plumbing systems in South Africa, used in homes, commercial buildings, and industrial installations. However, selecting the wrong pipe size, tube hardness, fitting type, or compliance standard can lead to leaks, failed inspections, or insurance problems.

This guide explains:

1. How copper pipe sizing works
2. What SANS 460 / 460/0–460/3 means
3. When to use SABS-approved materials
4. Capillary vs compression fittings
5. Common copper fitting codes

How Copper Pipe Sizes Work

Copper pipe sizes are based on the outside diameter (OD) of the pipe — not the inside diameter.

Common Copper Pipe Sizes in South Africa

• 15mm copper pipe – Basins, sinks, toilets
• 22mm copper pipe – Geysers and main water feeds
• 28mm copper pipe – High-flow or commercial applications

Why Copper Pipe Sizing Matters

• Copper fittings are manufactured to match the outside diameter
• A 15mm copper fitting always fits a 15mm pipe
• Pipe wall thickness does not affect fitting compatibility

✔ Always match the pipe size to the fitting size, not the application alone.

Understanding Copper Tube Types: What Does 460/0, 460/1, 460/2 Mean?

Copper pipes used for plumbing in South Africa are manufactured to SANS 460 (aligned with EN 1057). The number after the slash describes the temper (hardness) of the tube.

Important: “460” refers to the material standard.
The /0, /1, /2 describes how hard or soft the pipe is, not its quality.

Tube Type	Characteristics	Typical Uses
460/0 – Hard Drawn Copper Tube	Fully rigid Supplied in straight lengths Cannot be bent by hand	Exposed pipework Vertical risers Commercial and industrial installations
460/1 – Half-Hard Copper Tube	Slight flexibility Can be bent using a pipe bender Supplied in straight lengths	Most domestic plumbing Cut lengths sold in retail General-purpose installations
460/2 – Annealed (Soft) Copper Tube	Very flexible Supplied in coils Easily bent by hand	Tight spaces Geyser and solar connections Renovations where minimal joints are preferred
460/3 – Extra Soft Copper Tube	Extremely flexible Supplied in coils Lower mechanical strength	Specialist or instrumentation applications ⚠ Rarely used for standard domestic plumbing.

 

Important note on domestic cut lengths

Domestic cut-length copper pipe (short straight pieces sold in retail) is still SANS 460 copper tube, typically 460/0 or 460/1.
The cut length affects convenience only, not compliance or pressure rating.

---

Capillary vs Compression Copper Fittings

Choosing the correct fitting type is just as important as choosing the correct pipe.

---

Fitting Type	How It Works	Best Uses	Key Benefits
Capillary (Soldered) Copper Fittings	Joined using heat and solder. Molten solder flows into the joint by capillary action, creating a permanent seal.	Permanent plumbing installations Concealed pipework (walls, floors, roofs) Geyser installations High-temperature and high-pressure systems	Extremely durable Long service life Preferred by professional plumbers
Compression Copper Fittings	Seals by tightening a nut that compresses a brass olive onto the pipe. ⚠ Incorrect tightening can cause leaks.	Repairs and maintenance Exposed pipework DIY installations Areas where open flame is not allowed	No solder or heat required Can be removed and reused Fast installation

---

Capillary vs Compression – Simple Rule

Capillary fittings = permanent installations
Compression fittings = removable or repair work

---

What Do Copper Fitting Codes Mean? (CxC, CxMI, CxFI)

Copper fittings use standard abbreviations to describe their connection types.

Copper Fitting Code Definitions

C – Capillary (soldered connection)

MI – Male Iron (male thread)

FI – Female Iron (female thread)

“Iron” is a legacy plumbing term — fittings are typically brass.

Common Copper Fitting Codes Explained

C x C – Capillary × Capillary (elbows, couplings)

C x C x C – Capillary tee

C x MI – Capillary to male threaded adapter

C x FI – Capillary to female threaded adapter

Understanding these codes ensures compatibility with valves, taps, pumps, and geysers.

---

SABS vs Non-SABS Copper Pipes & Fittings

In South Africa, copper pipes and fittings may be SABS-approved (SANS compliant) or non-SABS.

---

When SABS-Approved Copper Is Required

Use SABS-approved materials for:

• Permanent plumbing installations
• New builds and renovations
• Plumbing Certificates of Compliance (COC)
• Geyser installations
• Concealed pipework
• Insurance-covered properties
• Municipal inspectors and insurers expect SABS compliance.

---

When Non-SABS May Be Used

Non-SABS copper fittings may be suitable for:

• Temporary installations
• Exposed, non-critical pipework
• Agricultural or utility applications
• Emergency or short-term repairs

⚠ Non-SABS fittings should not be used in concealed or insured installations.

---

Simple Compliance Rule

Hidden, permanent, or insured plumbing → SABS required
Temporary or exposed plumbing → non-SABS may be acceptable

---

Common Types of Copper Fittings

Copper fittings are available in various shapes to suit different plumbing needs:

Copper elbows (45° and 90°)

Copper tees

Copper couplings

Copper reducers

Copper adapters (CxMI / CxFI)

Copper end caps

Choosing the correct fitting improves flow efficiency, durability, and compliance.

---

Final Tips for Choosing Copper Pipes & Fittings

✔ Match pipe size exactly
✔ Choose the correct tube temper (460/0–460/2)
✔ Use capillary fittings for permanent work
✔ Use compression fittings for repairs
✔ Use SABS-approved products where compliance matters
✔ Always check connection codes

---

Need help choosing the right copper pipe or fitting?

Zisabo supplies a full range of SANS 460 copper pipes and SABS-approved fittings, with expert advice to help you choose correctly the first time.

👉 Browse our copper range online or speak to our team for assistance.