To achieve better speed in construction, Glendale Fire Protection tries to use one inch copper tube as far as possible. Keeping to a universal size also allows a better supply of fittings. Korey Fowler, superintendent at the installation, indicated that the fitters like working with copper. He also pointed out that the strength and durability of copper tube was important since other subcontractors often subjected the piping system to rough handling. Another feature is that, for this project, they were able to penetrate 2-hour fire walls with copper, but not with CPVC or Polybutylene.
Flexibility is recognized as being one of copper's key benefits.
These factors make accurate prefabrication of systems very difficult. Copper systems are a lot easier to field fabricate. Also, in tight spaces, the tube can be worked on much easier. We like working with copper, because it is light and flexible, unlike steel. For residential systems and apartment projects, copper is an excellent choice.