Copper Elbow Fitting Dimensions

Copper fittings are a component of an important part of the plumbing, HVAC, refrigeration, and medical gas pipeline systems. One of the most popular connectors used of these is the copper elbow fitting. Elbows enable pipelines to bend and at the same time ensure a smooth flow. As different applications need different fittings of bending angle and size it is worth knowing the size of copper elbow fittings prior to installation.

This blog is going to discuss the fittings of copper elbows in terms of their type, size, and standard size.

What is a Copper Elbow Fitting?

A copper elbow is a bent pipe fitting used to change the direction of fluid flow. Instead of having a straight line, elbows provide angles that redirect water, gas, or refrigerants without leakage.

• Available in 45°, 90°, and 180° angles.
• Manufactured under international standards like EN 1254, ASTM B88, ASTM B280, and ASME B16.22.
• Produced in sizes ranging from 6mm to 159mm (¼” to 6”) depending on application.

Types of Copper Elbow Fittings

• 90° Copper Elbow

1. Most common type.
2. Used to make a right-angle turn.
3. Available as long radius (LR) or short radius (SR).

• 45° Copper Elbow

1. Provides a gentler bend.
2. Reduces flow resistance compared to 90°.
3. Widely used in plumbing and HVAC pipelines.

• 180° Copper Return Bend

1. Also called a U-bend.
2. Used when the pipeline needs to make a full reversal.

• Reducing Elbow

1. Connects pipes of different diameters while changing direction.
2. Saves space and reduces the need for extra fittings.

• Medical Gas Copper Elbow

1. Specifically manufactured according to EN 13348 for MGPS (Medical Gas Pipeline Systems).
2. Degreased, non-arsenical, and oxygen-ready.

Copper Elbow Fitting Dimensions

Here is a general guide to dimensions (OD = outside diameter, SR = Sort Redius & LR = Long Redius).

90° Copper Elbow Dimensions

| Nominal Size | OD (mm) | Radius (mm) | Type |

| ------------ | ------- | ----------- | ------- |

| ¼" | 6 | 12 | SR / LR |

| ⅜" | 10 | 19 | SR / LR |

| ½" | 15 | 22 | SR / LR |

| ¾" | 22 | 28 | SR / LR |

| 1" | 28 | 38 | SR / LR |

| 1 ¼" | 35 | 44 | SR / LR |

| 1 ½" | 42 | 57 | SR / LR |

| 2" | 54 | 76 | SR / LR |

45° Copper Elbow Dimensions

| Nominal Size | OD (mm) | Radius (mm) |

| ------------ | ------- | ----------- |

| ¼" | 6 | 12 |

| ⅜" | 10 | 19 |

| ½" | 15 | 22 |

| ¾" | 22 | 28 |

| 1" | 28 | 38 |

| 1 ¼" | 35 | 44 |

| 1 ½" | 42 | 57 |

| 2" | 54 | 76 |

180° Copper Return Bend Dimensions

| Nominal Size | OD (mm) | Center to Center (mm) |

| ------------ | ------- | --------------------- |

| ½" | 15 | 45 |

| ¾" | 22 | 60 |

| 1" | 28 | 80 |

| 1 ¼" | 35 | 100 |

| 1 ½" | 42 | 120 |

| 2" | 54 | 150 |

Standards for Copper Elbows

Copper elbow fittings are produced under international specifications:

• EN 1254-1 – Copper and copper alloy fittings.
• ASTM B88 / B280 – Seamless copper water and ACR tubing.
• ASME B16.22 – Wrought copper and copper alloy solder-joint fittings.
• EN 13348 – Copper pipes and fittings for medical gas systems.

Applications of Copper Elbow Fittings

• Plumbing – Domestic and commercial water supply.
• HVAC & Refrigeration – Air conditioning and refrigeration pipelines.
• Medical Gas Pipelines – Oxygen and other critical gas distribution.
• Gas & Oil – High-pressure systems requiring durability.

Copper elbow fittings are available in multiple types and dimensions to suit every application. Whether you need a 90° turn, a smooth 45° bend, or a 180° return, selecting the correct size ensures efficiency and leak-free performance.

When planning your next project, always check the standard dimensions and specifications to ensure compliance and long-lasting results.

By -

C-Fit Copper

For any questions related to fittings, pipes, valves, or copper materials, feel free to comment below.