They are made basically the same way but the softer gas pipes go through an annealing process. In this process the pipes are heated till they are glowing and then cooled. This is an extra step in the manufacturing process and the price is higher. The annealed pipes can be easily bent or flared
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More About Copper Tubing
Copper is utilized in heating systems, underground water service, and water distribution systems. Copper tubing is economical, formable, and lightweight. It also bonds easily to solder. These characteristics account for its use as the most common material in residential water supply lines.
There are two basic kinds of copper pipe: hard/rigid (tempered) and soft (annealed). Hard copper is available in straight lengths while soft copper is easily bended and available in coils. Copper pipe is available in several basic types including: Type K, Type L, Type M, and Refrigeration pipe.
Type M Copper Tubing
Type M copper is a thin walled copper pipe commonly used in domestic water applications. We carry Type M copper in hard straight lengths and soft coils. We offer Type M copper straight lengths in sizes from 1/2" to 2" in diameter and 1 to 4 ft. in length. We also offer 1/4" to 2" diameter coils of 60 and 100 ft. lengths.
Type L Copper Tubing
Type L copper is a medium walled copper pipe and commonly used for water services inside and out. Type L copper is particularly used outside or wherever the pipe will be exposed. We offer Type L copper in straight lengths in sizes from 1/2" to 2" in diameter and 1 to 4 ft. in length.
Type K Copper Tubing
Type K copper is the thickest type of copper tubing sold on our website. This pipe is generally used between water mains and the meter. It is also commonly utilized for heavy-duty vacuum pump lines and underground lines. Type K copper is available in 1/4" to 2" diameter coils of 60 and 100 ft. lengths.
Refrigeration Soft Copper Tubing
Copper refrigeration tubing is soft copper tubing used for various applications, such as heater units, heater lines, gas lines, oil burner tubes, air conditioner lines, and plumbing applications. Refrigeration tubing is available in 1/8" to 1-5/8" OD coils of 50' and 100' lengths.