Copper ACR solder joint fittings vs standard copper solder joint fittings.
What is the difference between copper ACR solder joint fittings and standard copper solder joint fittings?
1. Intended Use
-
ACR (Air Conditioning & Refrigeration) Fittings:
Designed specifically for HVAC and refrigeration systems that carry refrigerant gases. They are manufactured and cleaned to maintain the purity required for sealed refrigeration circuits. -
Standard Copper Solder Fittings:
Intended for plumbing and potable water systems. They handle water, gas, and sometimes low-pressure air, but are not cleaned or rated for refrigerant service.
2. Cleanliness & Preparation
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ACR Fittings:
Internally cleaned, dehydrated, and capped at both ends to prevent moisture, oxidation, or contaminants that could damage refrigeration compressors or affect refrigerant purity. -
Solder Fittings:
Not cleaned to the same standard. They may contain oils or oxidation residues acceptable for water systems but unsuitable for refrigerants.
3. Sizing
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ACR Tube and Fittings:
Sized by outside diameter (OD) — e.g., 5/8", 7/8", etc. -
Plumbing (Solder) Tube and Fittings:
Sized by nominal pipe size (NPS) — e.g., 1/2", 3/4", etc. The actual OD is always 1/8" larger than the nominal size. - Other than how they are called out, sizing is virtually the same
4. Pressure Rating
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ACR Fittings:
In theory, ACR fittings are rated for higher pressures typical of refrigerant gases. (But if they are the same thickness, how can they be rated higher?) -
Standard Solder Fittings:
Rated for moderate pressures suitable for water distribution systems.
5. Joining Method
-
Both use brazing or soldering, but ACR fittings typically require brazing with silver-based alloys to withstand refrigeration system pressures and temperatures.
? Copper ACR vs. Standard Copper Solder Fittings
| Feature | Copper ACR Fittings | Standard Copper Solder Fittings |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (HVAC systems carrying refrigerants) | Plumbing systems for potable water, gas, or general fluid service |
| Manufacturing Cleanliness | Internally cleaned, dehydrated, and capped to maintain refrigerant system purity | Not cleaned or capped; acceptable for water systems |
| End Protection | Plastic caps on both ends to prevent contamination | Typically uncapped |
| Sizing Method | Outside Diameter (OD) (e.g., 5/8", 7/8") | Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) (e.g., 1/2", 3/4") |
| Pressure Rating | Higher pressure rating for refrigerant gases | Moderate pressure rating for water or gas |
| Joining Method | Brazed using silver-based filler metals | Soldered using lead-free solder alloys |
| Standards | Complies with ASTM B280 for ACR tubing | Complies with ASTM B88 for plumbing copper |
| Material Type | Typically DHP copper (C12200), fully annealed or hard-drawn | DHP copper (C12200), in drawn or annealed tempers |
| Application Examples | Refrigeration lines, split AC systems, chillers, heat pumps | Potable water, hot/cold water lines, heating systems |
| Cleanliness Requirement | Critical — prevents compressor and system contamination | Not required — safe for general plumbing |
✅ Summary:
Copper ACR fittings are precision-cleaned, capped, and designed for refrigerant integrity and pressure performance in HVAC systems.
Standard copper solder fittings are built for water or gas plumbing applications where cleanliness and high-pressure gas compatibility are not required.
