3  Piping work and 
refrigerant charge
93
3
SMGB0077 rev.0 - 01/2013
3.2  Copper pipes, sizes, connection and insulation
3.2.1  Copper pipes and sizes
C A U T I O N
•  The  copper  pipe  used  in  the  refrigeration  installations  is  different  to  the  copper  pipe  used  in  installations 
carrying domestic or heating water.
•  The  copper  pipe  for  refrigeration  installations  is  especially  treated  for  outdoors  and  indoors.  The  interior 
surface nish makes it easierfor the refrigerant to circulateand withstands the action ofthe lubricant oil
applied to outdoor equipment.
 
Prepare the copper pipes provided by the supplier.
Select the pipe with the appropriate diameter and thickness. Use the table below to select the most appropriate pipe:
Nominal diameter
Thickness mm Supply
mm Inches
Ø6.35 1/4 0.80 Roll
Ø9.52 3/8 0.80 Roll
Ø12.7 1/2 0.80 Roll
Ø15.88 5/8 1.00 Roll
Ø19.05 3/4 1.00 Pipe
Ø22.20 7/8 1.00 Pipe
Ø25.40 1 1.00 Pipe
Ø28.60 1-1/8 1.00 Pipe
Always use clean copper pipes with no signs of knocks or cracks. Make sure there is no dust or dampness on the inside. 
Before  you  install  the  pipes, clean  the  inside  with  oxygen-free  nitrogen  gas to  eliminate  any  remains  of  dust  or other 
substances.
C A U T I O N
•  Do not use hand saws, circular saws, abrasive grinders or other tools that generate shavings. 
•  Strictly follow national or local regulations regarding occupational health and safety.
•  Wear  appropriate  means  of  protection  during  cutting  or  brazing  operations  and  installation  (gloves,  eye 
protection, etc).
 
On completing the installation of the refrigerant pipes -B-, insulate 
them appropriately using suitable insulating material -A- and seal 
the open space between the holes made and the pipe, as shown 
in the gure.
A
A
B