Copper in sream

Jim Pompetti

Just what properties of copper , attack the boiler in a steam system . (steam side)

Al Letellier_9

copper in steam

Not so much a properties problem. Electrolysis can occur between dissimilar metals. Constant expansion and contraction of piping can work on a copper sweat joint and it will weaken over time. My main complain about seeing copper on a steam boiler....laziness !!! Take the time to set up the gear and do it right.

gerry gill

the fact that it acts as a cathode

in relation to the iron which will become the anode in coppers presence. http://www.eaa1000.av.org/technicl/corrosion/galvanic.htm

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Anna Conda

As the steam erodes the copper and carries little particles away, they can settle in the system, even back in the boiler, and voila - a hair-tearer of a galvanic problem because the source isn't obvious.

Chris_82

Copper is great...

just not in steam systems. There are multiple posts and threads regarding copper and steam on this site. You can do a search and see much more than what is here. Again the constant movement anneals the copper making it much more likely it will crack in a circumferential pattern. And copper as all materials subject to vibration and expansion, moves a great deal. It is a cheeap way of saving a buck at the customers expense and just cheapens the trade as well.