Copper fittings are typically made from a type of copper alloy, which means they’re almost entirely copper with small amounts of other elements mixed in.
Why? Because pure copper is too soft to handle the pressure of your plumbing system.
What Are Copper Fittings Made Of?
Most plumbing copper fittings are made from deoxidized high phosphorus copper C12200. That’s about 99.9 percent copper with just a touch of phosphorus. This improves weldability and corrosion resistance.
Strong enough to withstand water pressure
Flexible enough to shape and join easily
Resistant to corrosion and scaling
You might also hear about:
Type L or M copper used in pipes Type L is thicker
Wrought copper used in elbows, tees, and couplings
So no, you’re not getting 24 karat jewelry level purity, but you are getting fittings built to last decades.
Why Not Use 100 Percent Pure Copper?
Pure copper is soft. Really soft. That makes it great for sculptures and wires but not so great for fittings under pressure.
Adding a small amount of phosphorus or other trace elements makes copper:
More durable under mechanical stress
Easier to braze or solder so your joints don’t fail
Less prone to pinhole leaks over time
Your copper fittings are still very much copper. They’re just engineered for performance and longevity.
Copper Is Naturally Antimicrobial
Real copper fittings help fight bacteria and biofilm, which is why copper remains a go-to choice in drinking water systems.
Safe for potable water
Resists internal buildup
Naturally kills germs
Many pros still prefer copper in homes even as modern materials like PEX and CPVC grow in popularity.
Common Copper Fittings You Might See
Whether you're a seasoned pro or tackling your first plumbing job, these are go-to copper fittings:
Elbows 45 or 90 degrees
Tees
Couplings
Caps
Adapters male and female threaded
Most of these are made from C12200 copper alloy.
Copper dreams start here.
Explore our Copper Plumbing Fittings and upgrade your system with confidence.
FAQs About Copper Fittings
1. Can copper fittings rust?
No. Copper doesn’t rust. It corrodes in a different way, forming a greenish protective patina.
2. Are all copper fittings lead free?
Yes. In modern plumbing, fittings used for drinking water must meet lead free standards under 0.25 percent lead.
3. Can copper fittings be used with PEX?
Yes, with the right transition fittings such as SharkBite connectors.
4. Are there different grades of copper fittings?
Yes. Type L is thicker and more durable than Type M. Check local code to determine what’s required in your area.
Final Verdict
Copper fittings are not 100 percent pure copper, but they’re pretty close at 99.9 percent. They’re strong, durable, safe for potable water, and trusted across generations of plumbers.
Looking for quality copper fittings?
Check out our full line of Copper Fittings where plumbing problems meet fun solutions.
Keep things flowing.