Why Would You Use Copper Packed Metal Tube?

Copper packed metal tubing is designed for applications where standard flexible tubing simply isn’t strong or sealed enough.

By combining an interlocked metal structure with copper wire packing, this type of tubing offers enhanced strength, improved sealing, and greater durability – making it ideal for demanding industrial environments.

What is Copper Packed Metal Tube?

Copper packed tubing is a type of interlocked flexible metal tube made from a wound metal strip with a copper wire inserted into the interlock.

This construction creates a tube that is:

• Highly flexible
• Extremely strong
• More “gas tight” than standard interlock tubing

The copper packing fills the gaps within the interlock, improving sealing and stiffness.

Key Benefits of Copper Packed Tubing

1. Improved Gas Tightness

One of the main reasons to use copper packed tubing is its ability to reduce leakage.

The copper wire packing helps create a tighter seal within the tube, making it suitable for:

• Exhaust systems
• Fume extraction
• Air and gas transfer

This makes it a go-to solution where containment is important.

2. Greater Mechanical Strength

The interlocked design already provides strong structural integrity, but the addition of copper packing increases resistance to crushing and deformation.

This makes it ideal for:

• Harsh industrial environments
• Heavy-duty machinery
• Areas with physical stress or movement

3. Flexibility with Stability

Unlike some flexible hoses that are too soft, copper packed tubing offers a balance between flexibility and rigidity.

It can:

• Hold its shape (stay-put characteristics)
• Be routed around obstacles
• Maintain structural integrity under load

This is particularly useful in fixed installations.

4. High Temperature Performance

Copper packed interlock tubing can operate in high-temperature environments, with some variants capable of handling temperatures up to around 650°C.

This makes it suitable for:

• Engine exhaust systems
• Industrial heat processes
• Ventilation of hot gases

5. Vibration & Movement Absorption

Like other interlock tubing, copper packed versions are effective at absorbing:

• Vibration
• Thermal expansion
• Mechanical movement

This helps protect connected systems and extend equipment lifespan.

Typical Applications

Copper packed metal tubing is commonly used in:

• Exhaust systems (vehicles, generators, machinery)
• Ducting & extraction systems
• Material handling (dry powders, granules)
• Protective casings for cables or components

Its versatility makes it suitable across industries including manufacturing, automotive, and heavy engineering.

When Should You Choose Copper Packed Over Standard Tubing?

Copper packed tubing is the better choice when you need:

• A more gas-tight solution
• Increased strength and durability
• A tube that can hold its shape
• Performance in high-temperature environments

For lighter-duty or purely flexible applications, standard interlock tubing may be sufficient. But for more demanding conditions, copper packed tubing offers a clear performance advantage.

A Reliable Solution for Demanding Environments

Copper packed metal tubing is engineered for reliability where failure isn’t an option.

By combining flexibility, strength and improved sealing, it delivers a dependable solution for some of the toughest industrial applications.

Need Help Choosing the Right Tubing?

If you’re unsure whether copper packed tubing is right for your application, speak to Whitehouse Flexible Tubing for expert advice and bespoke solutions tailored to your requirements.