ASTM B819 copper pipe is a special cleaned seamless copper pipe for use in medical gas system. ASTM B819 defines the specifications to be met for straight lengths of seamless copper tube suitable for medical gas applications for Type K and L wall thicknesses.
Medical gas tubing differs from normal plumbing copper tubing as it may be used to carry medical gases, such as oxygen, under pressure, which puts extra cleanliness requirements upon this material. When cleaning in oxygen service, special emphasis should be placed on the presence of oil and grease which may pose serious safety hazards.
The ASTM B819 also specifies copper tube manufacturing, mechanical properties, testing, and copper tube cleanliness requirements.
What is ASTM B819 Copper Pipe
ASTM B819 is the designation of the “Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Tube for Medical Gas Systems.” It is developed by ASTM International, and applies specifically to specially cleaned seamless copper tubes used in medical gas systems.
According to the specification, there are two standard schedules that are used for walls: Type K, Type L
The ASTM B88 classification system is used to classify these two types, and ASTM B819 outlines additional requirements for their use in medical gas systems.
| Specification | ASTM B819 Requirement |
|---|---|
| Product type | Seamless copper tube |
| Application | Medical gas systems |
| Tube types | Type K and Type L |
| Condition | H58 drawn temper |
| Construction | Seamless |
| Cleaning | Specially cleaned for medical gas service |
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Get CatalogueWhere Is ASTM B819 Copper Pipe Used
ASTM B819 copper pipe is mainly employed in the medical gas pipeline applications and is specially cleaned copper pipe.
Typical applications include:
1. Hospitals: Medical gas pipelines of copper can be used to transport gases from a central source to various parts of a hospital.
2.Intensive Care Units: Based on the facility design, there may be a need for reliable supply of oxygen, medical air, vacuum and other gases in ICUs.
3.Operating Rooms: Medical gas services can be installed via dedicated pipeline system to equipment in the operating room.
4.Emergency Departments: In emergency and treatment areas, medical gas outlets can be provided to make available required medical gas.
5.Patient Rooms: Medical gas outlets from the central pipeline system may be connected to hospital rooms.
6.Laboratories and Healthcare Facilities: Medical gas distribution systems may be installed in specialized healthcare facilities in accordance with the appropriate regulations and standards.
Why Is Special Cleaning Important
One of the most important differences between ordinary copper tubing and ASTM B819 copper pipe is the requirement for special cleaning.
Medical gas piping systems can connect directly to patient-care areas for the supplies of oxygen and other gases. Any oil, grease or other easily oxidized contamination within the pipe may pose a safety risk.
There are various methods of cleaning outlined within ASTM B819 that may include:
- Alkaline washing
- Steam solvent washing
- Steam detergent washing
- Steam washing
- Vapor degreasing
- Refrigerant degreasing
The detailed cleaning procedure will depend on the respective manufacturing specifications and requirements.
Medical gas copper tubes are usually capped or plugged after cleaning to minimize the risk of contamination during storage, transport and installation. The Copper Development Association also stresses on cleanliness during installation.
What Gases Can Be Transported Through Medical Gas Copper Pipes
Gases transported will vary based on design and needs of the healthcare facility.
Typical medical gas services consist of:
- Medical oxygen
- Medical air
- Nitrous oxide
- Nitrogen
- Carbon dioxide
- Instrument air
- Vacuum
All of these gases are not utilized by all medical facilities. The design of the pipelines depends on the needs of the health care facility and codes.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Is ASTM B819 the same as ASTM B88?
No. ASTM B819 specifically addresses seamless copper tube for medical gas systems, while ASTM B88 defines copper water tube, including the Type K and Type L classifications referenced by ASTM B819.
What types of copper tube are covered by ASTM B819?
ASTM B819 covers specially cleaned straight lengths of seamless Type K and Type L copper tube for medical gas systems.