Copper tubing is produced in two different tempers: drawn and annealed (or, in more common terms, hard and soft). Installers generally join hard copper tubing by soldering, brazing, welding, or with capillary fittings. Although it is possible to connect soft copper by these same methods, flare and compression fittings are commonly used. Soft copper can also be expanded and soldered/brazed to another tube without the use of a fitting. SharkBite fittings work with both hard and soft copper. When working with soft copper, it is recommended to incorporate a straight run of tubing for at least a few inches immediately after the fitting.
SupplyHouse.com offers a wide selection of fittings and copper tubing.
