EN 13348 Copper Pipe: Medical Gas Copper Tube Specifications & Uses

EN 13348 copper pipe is a seamless round copper tube, which is particularly produced for medical gas and vacuum applications. EN 13348 specifies the requirements for copper tubes for the transfer of medical gases and vacuum in health-care facilities.

EN 13348 copper pipe
EN 13348 copper pipe

Special attention is given to the production of these tubes in quality of materials, dimensions, mechanical properties, cleanliness and suitability for medical gas applications.
Medical gas copper pipe has special requirements to the applicable medical gas standard and must be handled with care, so as to keep the pipe’s inside clean.

What Is EN 13348 copper pipe

EN 13348 is a European standard, Copper and copper alloys — Seamless, round copper tubes for medical gases or vacuum. Requirements for Seamless Round Copper tubes for medical gas and vacuum installations are detailed in the standard.

Typical gases and services in medical facilities can include:

  • Medical oxygen
  • Medical air
  • Nitrous oxide
  • Nitrogen
  • Carbon dioxide
  • Other medical gases
  • Vacuum systems

The specific gases employed are dependent on the design of the pipeline in the healthcare facility and the type of facility.

SpecificationEN 13348 Copper Pipe
MaterialCopper and copper alloys
Product typeSeamless round copper tube
ApplicationMedical gases and vacuum
StandardEN 13348
CleanlinessControlled for intended application
Application environmentHospitals and healthcare facilities
EN 13348 Copper Pipe Specifications

Medical Gases Transported Through EN 13348 Copper Tubes

The type of medical gas services supplied via the pipeline are reliant upon the kind of healthcare facility.
Common services include:

  1. Oxygen (O₂)
  2. Medical Air
  3. Nitrous Oxide (N₂O)
  4. Nitrogen (N₂)
  5. Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)
  6. Vacuum

Clear identification of each pipeline, based on the appropriate installation standard and local requirements should occur.

Benefits of EN 13348 Copper Pipe

High Reliability:
For permanent medical gas distribution networks, copper tubing is an excellent option.

Long Service Life:
In building services, it is widely used due to its durability, corrosion resistance.

Smooth Internal Surface:
Coping with a smooth inner surface of properly manufactured copper tubing will allow for efficient gas flow.

Easy Fabrication:
Some of the standard installation techniques are used to cut, bend, and join copper tubes.

Brazing Compatibility:
When suitable procedures and materials are used, copper is an excellent material for brazing.

Medical Gas Application:
EN 13348 deals in particular with seamless round copper tubes for medical gases and vacuum.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What gases can EN 13348 copper tubes carry?

Depending on the system design, they can be used for medical oxygen, medical air, nitrous oxide, nitrogen, carbon dioxide and other medical gases, as well as vacuum service.

Can EN 13348 copper pipe be brazed?

Yes. Copper tubing used in medical gas installations is commonly joined using suitable brazing procedures and compatible fittings.