Description
Copper Union - C x C
Charman Inc. Copper Unions provide a removable connection point in compatible copper tube piping systems. Unlike a standard coupling, a union can be disconnected without cutting the surrounding copper tubing, making it useful where equipment, valves, or sections of piping may require future service, removal, or replacement.
The C x C configuration provides cup-style connections on both ends for solder / sweat installation, while the center union connection creates a mechanical separation point that can be disconnected after installation.
Product Highlights
- Copper union fitting
- C x C copper connections
- Cup-style connections on both ends
- Designed for solder / sweat installation
- Removable center union connection
- Allows piping sections to be separated without cutting tube
- Useful near serviceable equipment and valves
- Copper construction
Sizes & Part Numbers
| Part Number | Size | UPC |
|---|---|---|
| 330513 | 1/2" | 847877016167 |
| 330514 | 3/4" | 847877016181 |
| 330515 | 1" | 847877025060 |
| 330516 | 1-1/4" | 847877025077 |
| 330517 | 1-1/2" | 847877025084 |
| 330518 | 2" | 847877025091 |
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Charman Inc. |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Copper Union |
| Material | Copper |
| Connection Type | C x C |
| Connection Style | Cup / Sweat |
| Joining Method | Solder Joint |
| Configuration | Removable Union Connection |
| Function | Serviceable Inline Connection |
What Is a Copper Union?
A copper union joins two compatible copper tube sections while providing a mechanical separation point between them. After the cup ends are soldered into the piping system, the center union connection can be loosened to separate the two sides without cutting the surrounding copper tubing.
- Connects two compatible copper tube sections
- Provides a serviceable connection point
- Can be disconnected without cutting the piping
- Useful near equipment, valves, and replaceable components
- Designed for solder / sweat copper installations
Understanding C x C Connections
First Cup Connection
One end receives compatible copper tubing and is permanently joined to the tube using an appropriate solder / sweat procedure.
Second Cup Connection
The opposite end receives the adjoining copper tube. Once both ends are installed, the center union provides the removable mechanical connection between them.
Union vs. Standard Coupling
Copper Union
Provides a removable mechanical connection between two soldered copper ends, allowing the piping to be separated later for service, maintenance, or component replacement.
Standard Copper Coupling
Creates a fixed soldered connection between two copper tube sections and normally requires the piping to be cut or otherwise modified to separate the connection later.
Why Use a Copper Union?
Service Access
Allows connected equipment or piping sections to be removed without cutting the surrounding copper tubing.
Equipment Connections
Useful near pumps, valves, heaters, and other components that may require future maintenance or replacement.
Reusable Separation Point
The center union connection can be disconnected and reassembled when access to the adjoining piping or equipment is required.
Common Applications
Plumbing & Mechanical
- Copper water piping
- Mechanical piping systems
- Equipment connections
- Valve installations
- Repair and maintenance
- Piping modifications
Serviceable Connections
- Pumps
- Water heaters
- Valves
- Mechanical equipment
- Replaceable piping components
- Fabricated copper assemblies
How to Select the Correct Copper Union
- Identify the nominal size of the copper tubing.
- Confirm that a removable inline connection is required.
- Verify that C x C cup-style connections are appropriate for the piping layout.
- Confirm that solder / sweat joining is appropriate for both tube connections.
- Allow adequate access around the union for future disassembly and service.
Installation Guidance
- Verify the nominal copper tube size before installation.
- Plan the union location so the center connection remains accessible for future service.
- Disassemble the union as appropriate before applying heat to protect the center sealing surfaces.
- Cut compatible copper tubing squarely and remove burrs as appropriate.
- Clean the tube ends and fitting cups before soldering.
- Apply appropriate flux according to the joining procedure.
- Fully seat the copper tubing into each solder cup.
- Use proper copper solder-joint heating procedures.
- Allow soldered components to cool before reassembling the union.
- Keep the union sealing surfaces clean and properly aligned.
- Reassemble and tighten the union connection appropriately without excessive force.
- Test the completed piping system for leakage before placing it into service.
Our pipe and fitting specialists can help review your copper tube size, union connection requirements, service-access needs, solder-joint installation, and piping application before you order.
Email the GetPipe.com Team Visit Quick SupportFrequently Asked Questions
What is a copper union used for?
A copper union joins two compatible copper tube sections while providing a connection that can later be separated without cutting the surrounding piping.
What does C x C mean?
C x C indicates cup-style connections on both ends designed to receive compatible copper tubing for solder / sweat installation.
How is a union different from a coupling?
A union includes a mechanical center connection that can be disconnected after installation. A standard soldered coupling creates a fixed joint that normally cannot be separated without modifying the piping.
Where should a copper union be installed?
A union is especially useful near valves, pumps, heaters, equipment, or other components that may need to be removed or serviced in the future.
Do the soldered ends need to be cut when the union is disconnected?
No. Once the union ends are soldered into the piping, the center mechanical connection can be separated without cutting those soldered tube connections.
Should the union be disassembled before soldering?
Disassembling the union as appropriate before applying heat helps protect the center sealing surfaces and other union components during soldering.
Can the union be reassembled after service?
Yes. The center connection is designed to be separated and reassembled. Keep the mating surfaces clean, properly aligned, and in suitable condition before reassembly.
Important Ordering Notes
- Verify the nominal copper tube size before ordering.
- Confirm that a removable union connection is required rather than a standard coupling.
- Verify that C x C solder / sweat connections are appropriate for the installation.
- Confirm adequate installation and service clearance around the union connection.
