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copper question

Old Oct 16, 2006 | 11:44 AM
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Question copper question

I was talking to someone on another forum. He was talking about copper brake lines. Would anyone here consider using copper for there brake lines. And why or why not.
 
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Old Oct 16, 2006 | 02:35 PM
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i have been told that brake fluid would deteriorate copper.
 
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Old Oct 16, 2006 | 02:50 PM
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Thats what I'm think too. Thats why I posted it here. Lets give the pros a crack at it.
 
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Old Oct 16, 2006 | 03:01 PM
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To the best of my knowledge it's a real NO NO. I doubt the copper would hold the pressure demanded in a full scale panic stop. And the corrosion factor in salt environments has to be considered. Absolute best would be stainless. Most vehicles have plain steel lines, and I have seen these develop corrosion to the point that pinhole leaks occur. JMHO, as usual.
 
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Old Oct 17, 2006 | 07:25 PM
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Reasons not to use copper.

Copper will stress harden from vehicle vibration and crack.
Copper tubing usually has a seam.
 
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Old Oct 17, 2006 | 07:40 PM
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Actually the copper used in refrigeration service would probably resist stress hardening pretty well. and is usually seamless. That said, max pressures in refrigeration seldom exceed 300-350 PSI, way below that which would be encountered in a hydraulic brake system. The Home Depot/Lowes stuff may very well be of seamed construction, and will very likely be subject to metal fatigue. You might loose some groceries if a refrigeration line failed, you might loose your life if it failed in a brake system.
 
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Old Oct 17, 2006 | 10:06 PM
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copper will not hold the double flair (it will split) and will not hold brake pressure! never use copper for brakes!
 
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Old Oct 18, 2006 | 04:58 AM
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So far that is exactly what i have been telling him. He claims someone actually makes copper brake lines. Anyone hear of this?
 
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Old Oct 18, 2006 | 05:57 AM
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Yes, BUT, they are a copper PLATED steel line. Supposed to resist corrosion, but more of a marketing gimmick. I think some steel lines (the grey colored ones) are also plated to resist corrosion.
 
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