CPC · California Plumbing Code

Joining methods: brazing, welding, memory metal, axially swaged and elastic preload fittings

Q: Can I use compression or flared fittings for medical gas station outlets?

No. Flared and compression‑type connections and several other straight‑threaded connections are explicitly prohibited in medical gas and vacuum distribution systems. § 1322.7 .

Q: If I use a listed metallic press fitting, is that automatically acceptable?

Only if the fitting, when made up, provides the mechanical, thermal, and sealing integrity of a brazed joint or is otherwise listed/approved for the application. Check § 1322.6 and the fitting listing.

For medical gas and vacuum piping, CPC allows only specified joining methods (brazing, welding, memory‑metal, axially‑swaged elastic‑preload, threaded where allowed). Each method has mandatory temperature, pressure, material, and installer requirements — notably **1000°F** and **300 psi/psig** thresholds for memory and swaged fittings, brazing filler metals meeting **AWS A5.8**, and welder qualifications per ASME. The code sections to check are **§ 1320.2**, **§ 1321.0**, **§ 1322.3**, and **§ 1322.4**.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

For changes in direction and fittings in medical gas and vacuum distribution, the CPC allows only a short list of approved joining methods: brazing, welding, memory metal fittings, axially swaged (elastic preload) fittings, or threaded where allowed — see § 1320.2. Each joining method has its own technical requirements (temperature rating, pressure rating, materials, installer qualifications, and permanence) spelled out in § 1321.0 and the § 1322.x series.

The most important rule: all turns, offsets, and changes in direction in positive-pressure medical gas and vacuum tubing must be made using one of the approved joining methods (brazing, welding, memory metal, axially swaged elastic-preload fittings, or threaded where specifically allowed). § 1320.2.

Requirements in detail

1) Brazing (overview)

Definition: Brazed joints are socket-type tube joints made with high‑temperature brazing alloys. See § 1321.0.
Key requirements:
- Use a brazing alloy with a liquid/melting temperature above 1000°F (538°C) to protect the piping system during fire exposure. § 1321.1.
- Use wrought‑copper capillary fittings (ASME B16.22) or brazed fittings compliant with ASME B16.50; cast copper alloy fittings are prohibited. § 1321.1.
- Tube joints must be socket type. § 1321.2.
- Filler metals must be compatible with the base metal and conform to AWS A5.8. § 1321.3.
- Copper‑to‑copper joints require copper–phosphorus or copper–phosphorus–silver (BCuP series) brazing filler metal (without flux). § 1321.4.
- Joints brazed in place must be accessible for preparation, heating, cooling, cleaning and inspection. § 1321.5.

2) Welding (overview)

Definition: Welded joints are used where permitted and must follow the welding procedures and welder qualifications specified in the code. See § 1322.1–1322.2.1.
Key requirements (selected):
- Welders must be qualified to an appropriate WPS for each tube diameter and (for stainless) to ASME Section IX. § 1322.1.2 and § 1322.2.1.
- For GTAW autogenous orbital welds, purge during welding with a commercially available mixture of 75% helium ±5% and 25% argon ±5%. § 1322.1.3.
- Test coupons are required at the start of work and at specified intervals for inspection. § 1322.1.5.
- Stainless tube welding methods include MIG, TIG, or other suitable techniques. § 1322.2.

3) Memory metal fittings

What they are: Memory metal fittings (shape‑memory alloy devices) permitted for copper or stainless tubing if they meet the performance thresholds. § 1322.3.
Required ratings and installation:
- Temperature rating not less than 1000°F (538°C) and pressure rating not less than 300 psi (2068 kPa). § 1322.3.
- Must be installed by qualified technicians and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. § 1322.3.

4) Axially swaged (elastic preload) fittings

What they are: Axially swaged fittings that create metal‑to‑metal seals by axial deformation and elastic preload are permitted when they are permanent and non‑separable. § 1322.4.
Required ratings and installation:
- Must provide metal‑to‑metal seals, be suitable for service at 300 psig (2070 kPa), and withstand temperatures of 1000°F (538°C). § 1322.4.
- When complete the joint must be permanent and nonseparable. § 1322.4.
- Must be installed by qualified technicians in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. § 1322.4.

Decision matrix (quick reference table)

Joining method	Required min temp rating	Required min pressure rating	Permitted for copper/stainless	Permanence / separability	Code Reference
Brazing (socket tube joints, wrought‑copper fittings per ASME)	> 1000°F (538°C)	(implicit system design; filler metals per AWS A5.8)	Copper and stainless per procedure	Permanent	§ 1321.0 – § 1321.5
Welding (GTAW/MIG/TIG as applicable)	N/A (process dependent)	N/A (process dependent; weld integrity required)	Copper and stainless (stainless per §1322.2)	Permanent	§ 1322.1 – § 1322.2.1
Memory metal fittings	≥ 1000°F (538°C)	≥ 300 psi (2068 kPa)	Permitted for copper or stainless	Usually permanent per manufacturer	§ 1322.3
Axially swaged / elastic preload fittings	1000°F (538°C)	300 psig (2070 kPa)	Permitted for copper or stainless	Permanent and nonseparable required	§ 1322.4

Installation & qualifications (overview)

Installers must be qualified and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for memory metal and axially swaged fittings. § 1322.3, § 1322.4.
Welding: welders must qualify to a WPS for each tube diameter; stainless welders to ASME Section IX. § 1322.1.2; § 1322.2.1.
Brazing: filler metal selection must comply with AWS A5.8; copper‑to‑copper brazing requires BCuP series alloys (no flux). § 1321.3, § 1321.4.

Exceptions & special cases

Branches in vacuum and WAGD systems fabricated from copper tubing may be made using mechanically formed, drilled, and extruded tee‑branch connections per the tool manufacturer’s instructions — but those branch connections must be joined by brazing. § 1320.2.1.
The code permits "other listed or approved metallic gas tube fittings" that provide the mechanical, thermal, and sealing integrity of a brazed joint — these are handled under § 1322.6 (you must verify listed status).
Some connections are explicitly prohibited in medical gas/vacuum distribution: flared and compression‑type connections, other straight‑threaded connections (including unions), and pipe‑crimping tools used to permanently stop flow are not allowed. See § 1322.7.

Common mistakes

Assuming any low‑temperature filler is acceptable — brazing filler metals must have melting temperature above 1000°F and conform to AWS A5.8. § 1321.1, § 1321.3.
Using cast copper alloy fittings for brazed joints (these are not permitted; use wrought or ASME B16.50 fittings). § 1321.1.
Installing memory metal or axially swaged fittings without checking the manufacturer’s data plate or instructions for the required 1000°F / 300 psi ratings. § 1322.3, § 1322.4.
Failing to purge during stainless tube welding (GTAW orbital purge spec is prescribed). § 1322.1.3.
Using flared or compression fittings or unions in medical gas distribution — these are prohibited. § 1322.7.

Worked example — selection & application (concrete)

Scenario: You are joining a 1/2‑inch hard‑drawn seamless copper oxygen branch in a hospital supply line and must make a 90° change in direction inside a service room.

Code first step — method selection: For changes in direction you may use brazing, welding, memory metal, axially swaged elastic‑preload, or threaded where allowed. § 1320.2.
Option A — brazing:
- Use a socket‑type brazed joint, butt the tube into a wrought‑copper capillary fitting (ASME B16.22) and apply a BCuP filler for copper‑to‑copper joints. § 1321.2, § 1321.4.
- Confirm the brazing alloy melts above 1000°F (for example, a filler with liquidus ≈ 1100°F) and that filler metal conforms to AWS A5.8. § 1321.1, § 1321.3.
- Ensure the joint location is accessible for brazing operations and inspection. § 1321.5.
Option B — axially swaged fitting:
- Use an axially swaged fitting listed for 300 psig (2070 kPa) service and a temperature rating of 1000°F; verify the fitting is permanently installed and non‑separable per the manufacturer’s procedures. § 1322.4.
- Install only by a qualified technician following manufacturer instructions; after swaging, the joint must be permanent. § 1322.4.
Documentation & verification:
- Keep manufacturer datasheets, filler metal certifications (AWS A5.8), and installer qualifications on file for inspection. See general installation and qualification requirements referenced throughout § 1321.0 and § 1322.0.

Related provisions (quick list)

§ 1320.0 — General Joints and Connections overview.
§ 1320.2 — Approved methods for changes in direction (brazing, welding, memory metal, axially swaged, threaded).
§ 1321.0 — Brazed Joints (materials, filler metals, socket joints, accessibility).
§ 1322.1 – § 1322.2.1 — Welding procedures, purging, welder qualifications (including ASME Section IX for stainless).
§ 1322.3 — Memory metal fittings: minimum 1000°F / 300 psi, installer qualifications.
§ 1322.4 — Axially swaged / elastic preload fittings: metal‑to‑metal seals, 300 psig / 1000°F, permanent/nonseparable.
§ 1322.6 — Other listed metallic fittings permitted if they provide brazed‑joint integrity.
§ 1322.7 — Prohibited joints in medical gas and vacuum systems (flared/compression/straight‑threaded/unions etc.).
§ 1323.11 — Qualification of brazing procedures and brazing (procedural qualification references).
§ 1319.1 — Approved tube materials for medical vacuum systems (hard‑drawn copper, stainless types).

If you want, I can produce a one‑page installer checklist (step sequence + what to record for inspection) tailored to brazing, welding, memory‑metal and axially‑swaged installations that references the exact subsections you’ll need on the job site.

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Plumbing Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

CPC § 1320.0 High relevance — show source text
1320.0 Joints and Connections.

1320.1 General. This section sets forth the requirements for pipe joint installations for a medical gas or vacuum system. 1320.2 Changes in Direction. Positive pressure patient gas systems, medical support gas systems, and vacuum systems constructed of hard-drawn seamless copper or stainless steel tubing shall have all turns, offsets, and other changes in direction made using fittings or techniques appropriate to any of the following acceptable joining methods:

(1) Brazing, as described in Section 1321.0.

(2) Welding, as described in Section 1322.1 through Section 1322.2.1.

(3) Memory metal fittings, as described in Section 1322.3.

(4) Axially swaged, elastic preload fittings, as described in Section 1322.4.

(5) Threaded, as described in Section 1322.5. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.3.1]

1320.2.1 Medical Vacuum Systems. Vacuum systems and WAGD systems fabricated from copper tubing shall be permitted to have branch connections made using mechanically formed, drilled, and extruded teebranch connections that are formed in accordance with

the tool manufacturer’s instructions. Such branch connections shall be joined by brazing, as described in Section 1321.0. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.3.3]

1321.0 Brazed Joints.

1321.1 Brazed Joints and Fittings. Fittings shall be wrought-copper capillary fittings complying with ASME B16.22, or brazed fittings complying with ASME B16.50. Cast copper alloy fittings shall not be permitted.

Brazed joints shall be made using a brazing alloy that exhibits a melting temperature in excess of 1000°F (538°C) to retain the integrity of the piping system in the event of fire exposure. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.4.1.1 – 5.1.10.4.1.3]

1321.2 Tube Joints. Brazed tube joints shall be the socket type. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.4.1.4]

1321.3 Filler Metals. Filler metals shall bond with and be metallurgically compatible with the base metals being joined.

Filler metals shall comply with AWS A5.8. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.4.1.5, 5.1.10.4.1.6]

1321.4 Copper-to-Copper Joints. Copper-to-copper joints shall be brazed using a copper–phosphorus or copperphosphorus-silver brazing filler metal (BCuP series) without flux. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.4.1.7]

1321.5 Accessible. Joints to be brazed in place shall be accessible for necessary preparation, assembly, heating, filler application, cooling, cleaning, and inspection. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.4.1.9]
CPC § 5.1.10.1.7 High relevance — show source text
[NFPA 99:5.1.10.1.7]

1318.6 Documentation. The installer shall furnish documentation certifying that all installed piping materials comply with the requirements of Section 1318.2. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.1.8]

1319.0 Piping Materials for Field-Installed Medical- Surgical Vacuum Systems. 1319.1 Tubes for Medical Vacuum Systems. Piping for vacuum systems shall be constructed of any of the following:

(1) Hard-drawn seamless copper tube in accordance with the following:

(a) ASTM B88, copper tube (Type K, Type L, or Type M)

(b) ASTM B280, copper ACR tube

(c) ASTM B819, copper medical gas tubing (Type K or Type L)

(2) Stainless steel tube in accordance with the following:

(a) ASTM A269 TP304L or 316L

(b) ASTM A312 TP304L or 316L

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HEALTH CARE FACILITIES AND MEDICAL GAS AND MEDICAL VACUUM SYSTEMS

(c) ASTM A312 TP 304L/316L, Schedule 5S pipe, and ASTM A403 WP304L/316L, Schedule 5S fittings {NFPA 99:5.1.10.2.1}

1319.1.1 Where Not Required. If medical gas tube in accordance with ASTM B819, Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Tube for Medical Gas Systems, is used for vacuum piping, such special marking shall not be required. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.2.2.2]

1320.0 Joints and Connections.

1320.1 General. This section sets forth the requirements for pipe joint installations for a medical gas or vacuum system. 1320.2 Changes in Direction. Positive pressure patient gas systems, medical support gas systems, and vacuum systems constructed of hard-drawn seamless copper or stainless steel tubing shall have all turns, offsets, and other changes in direction made using fittings or techniques appropriate to any of the following acceptable joining methods:

(1) Brazing, as described in Section 1321.0.

(2) Welding, as described in Section 1322.1 through Section 1322.2.1.

(3) Memory metal fittings, as described in Section 1322.3.

(4) Axially swaged, elastic preload fittings, as described in Section 1322.4.

(5) Threaded, as described in Section 1322.5. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.3.1]

1320.2.1 Medical Vacuum Systems. Vacuum systems and WAGD systems fabricated from copper tubing shall be permitted to have branch connections made using mechanically formed, drilled, and extruded teebranch connections that are formed in accordance with

the tool manufacturer’s instructions. Such branch connections shall be joined by brazing, as described in Section 1321.0. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.3.3]

1321.0 Brazed Joints.
CPC § 5.1.10.5.1.2 High relevance — show source text
ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code on each tube size diameter. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.5.1.2, 5.1.10.5.1.3] 1322.1.2 Welding Procedure Specification. Each welder shall qualify to a welding procedure specification (WPS) for each tube diameter. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.5.1.4] 1322.1.3 Purging of Joints. GTAW autogenous orbital welded joints shall be purged during welding with a commercially available mixture of 75 percent helium (+/- 5 percent) and 25 percent argon (+/- 5 percent).

[NFPA 99:5.1.10.5.1.5] 1322.1.4 Shield Gas. The shield gas shall be as required in Section 1322.1.3. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.5.1.6] 1322.1.5 Test Coupons. Test coupons shall be welded and inspected, as a minimum, at the start of work and every 4 hours thereafter, or when the machine is idle for more than 30 minutes, and at the end of the work period. Test coupons shall be inspected on the I.D. and O.D. by a qualified quality control inspector. Test coupons shall also be welded at change of operator, weld head, welding power supply, or gas source. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.5.1.7 – 5.1.10.5.1.9] 1322.2 Welding for Stainless Tube. Stainless tube shall be welded using metal inert gas (MIG) welding, tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding, or other welding techniques suited to joining stainless tube. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.5.2.1]

1322.2.1 Qualifications. Welders shall be qualified to Section IX of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.5.2.2]

1322.3 Memory Metal Fittings. Memory metal fittings having a temperature rating not less than 1000°F (538°C) and a pressure rating not less than 300 psi (2068 kPa) shall be permitted to be used to join copper or stainless steel tube. Memory metal fittings shall be installed by qualified technicians in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.6.1, 5.1.10.6.2]

1322.4 Axially Swaged Fittings. Axially swaged fittings providing metal-to-metal seals, suitable for service at 300 psig (2070 kPa) and able to withstand a temperature of 1000°F (538°C) and that, when complete, are permanent and nonseparable shall be permitted to be used to join copper or stainless steel tube. Axially swaged fittings shall be installed by qualified technicians in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.7.1, 5.1.10.7.2]

1322.5 Threaded Fittings. Threaded fittings shall meet the following criteria:

(1) They shall be limited to connections for pressure and vacuum indicators, alarm devices, gas-specific demand check fittings, and source equipment on the source side of the source valve.
CPC § 5.1.10.5.2.1 High relevance — show source text
[NFPA 99:5.1.10.5.2.1]

1322.2.1 Qualifications. Welders shall be qualified to Section IX of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.5.2.2]

1322.3 Memory Metal Fittings. Memory metal fittings having a temperature rating not less than 1000°F (538°C) and a pressure rating not less than 300 psi (2068 kPa) shall be permitted to be used to join copper or stainless steel tube. Memory metal fittings shall be installed by qualified technicians in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.6.1, 5.1.10.6.2]

1322.4 Axially Swaged Fittings. Axially swaged fittings providing metal-to-metal seals, suitable for service at 300 psig (2070 kPa) and able to withstand a temperature of 1000°F (538°C) and that, when complete, are permanent and nonseparable shall be permitted to be used to join copper or stainless steel tube. Axially swaged fittings shall be installed by qualified technicians in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.7.1, 5.1.10.7.2]

1322.5 Threaded Fittings. Threaded fittings shall meet the following criteria:

(1) They shall be limited to connections for pressure and vacuum indicators, alarm devices, gas-specific demand check fittings, and source equipment on the source side of the source valve.

(2) They shall be tapered pipe threads complying with ASME B1.20.1.

(3) They shall be made up with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) tape or other thread sealant recommended for oxygen service, with sealant applied to the male threads only and care taken to ensure sealant does not enter the pipe. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.8] 1322.6 Other Types of Fittings. Listed or approved metallic gas tube fittings that, when made up, provide a permanent joint having the mechanical, thermal, and sealing integrity of a brazed joint shall be permitted to be used. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.9.1]

1322.6.1 Dielectric Fittings. Dielectric fittings that comply with the following shall be permitted only where required by the manufacturer of special medical equipment to electrically isolate the equipment from the system distribution piping:

(1) They shall be of brass or copper construction with an approved dielectric.

(2) They shall be permitted to be a union.

(3) They shall be clean for oxygen where used for medical gases and medical support gases. [NFPA 99:5.1.10.9.2]

1322.7 Prohibited Joints. The following joints shall be prohibited throughout medical gas and vacuum distribution pipeline systems:

(1) Flared and compression-type connections, including connections to station outlets and inlets, alarm devices, and other components.

(2) Other straight-threaded connections, including unions.

(3) Pipe-crimping tools used to permanently stop the flow of medical gas and vacuum piping.

288 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

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CPC § 1322.0 High relevance — show source text
1322.0 Welded Joints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .288

1322.1 Welded Joints Procedure . . . . . . .288

1322.2 Welding for Stainless Tube . . . . .288

1322.3 Memory Metal Fittings . . . . . . . . .288

1322.4 Axially Swaged Fittings . . . . . . . .288

1322.5 Threaded Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . .288

1322.6 Other Types of Fittings . . . . . . . . .288

1322.7 Prohibited Joints . . . . . . . . . . . . . .288

1323.0 Installation of Piping and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .289

1323.1 Required Pipe Sizing . . . . . . . . . .289

Table 1323.1.5(1) System Sizing – Flow Requirements for Station Outlets and Inlets . . . . . . . . . . . . .289

Table 1323.1.5(2) Maximum Permitted Pressure Loss In Medical Gas and

Medical Vacuum Systems . . . . . . .289

1323.2 Pipe Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .289

Table 1323.1.4(1) Pressure Loss for Medical Air . . . . .290

xlii 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table 1323.1.4(2) Pressure Loss for Nitrogen . . . . . . .290

Table 1323.1.4(3) Pressure Loss for Nitrous Oxide and Carbon Dioxide . . . . . . .291

Table 1323.1.4(4) Pressure Loss for Oxygen . . . . . . .291

Table 1323.1.4(5) Pressure Loss for Vacuum . . . . . . .292

Table 1323.1.4(6) Pressure Loss for Vacuum (Category 3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .292

1323.3 Location of Piping . . . . . . . . . . . . .293

1323.4 Pipe Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .293

Table 1323.4.4 Maximum Pipe Support Spacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .293

1323.5 Frost Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . .293

1323.6 Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .294

1323.7 Prohibited System Interconnections . . . . . . . . . . . . . .294

1323.8 Manufacturer’s Instructions . . . . .294

1323.9 Changes in System Use . . . . . . . .294

1323.10 Qualifications of Installers . . . . . .294

1323.11 Qualification of Brazing Procedures and Brazing . . . . . . . .295

1323.12 Breaching or Penetrating Medical Gas Piping . . . . . . . . . . .295
California Plumbing Code Medium relevance — show source text

(feet)|FAN|FAN|NAT|FAN|FAN|NAT|FAN|FAN|NAT|FAN|FAN|NAT|FAN|FAN|NAT| |HEIGHT
H
(feet)|LATERAL
L
(feet)**|Min|Max|Max|Min|Max|Max|Min|Max|Max|Min|Max|Max|Min|Max|Max| |6|0
2
4
6|0
53
79
93|698
425
419
413|370
285
279
273|0
63
93
110|897
543
536
530|470
370
362
354|0
75
110
128|1121
675
668
661|570
455
445
435|0
103
147
171|1645
982
975
967|850
650
640
630|0
138
191
219|2267
1346
1338
1330|1170
890
880
870| |8|0
2
5
8|0
50
83
99|780
483
473
463|415
322
313
303|0
60
99
117|1006
619
607
596|537
418
407
396|0
71
115
137|1261
770
758
746|660
515
503
490|0
98
154
180|1858
1124
1110
1097|970
745
733
720|0
130
199
231|2571
1543
1528
1514|1320
1020
1010
1000| |10|0
2
5
10|0
48
81
104|847
533
522
504|450
355
346
330|0
57
95
122|1096
684
671
651|585
457
446
427|0
68
112
142|1377
852
839
817|720
560
547
525|0
93
149
187|2036
1244
1229
1204|1060
850
829
795|0
124
192
238|2825
1713
1696
1669|1450
1130
1105
1080| |15|0
2
5
California Plumbing Code Medium relevance — show source text
|100 psf|1 hr
23 min|||7|1, 2|11/3| |F/C-4-RC-9|4″|4″ deep (4370 psi);1/4″ reinforcement bars
at 6″ pitch with3/4″ cover;1/4″ main rein-
forcement bars at 4″ pitch perpendicular
with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span restrained.|150 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-10|4″|4″ thick (5140 psi) deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″ cover;3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 33/4″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|140 psf|1 hr
16 min|||7|1, 5|11/4| |F/C-4-RC-11|4″|4″ thick (4000 psi) concrete deck;
3″ × 11/2″ × 4 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.; flush
with top surface; 4″ × 6″ x 13 SWG mesh
reinforcement 1″ from bottom of slab; 6′6″
span restrained.|150 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-12|4″|4″ deep (2380 psi) concrete deck;
3″ × 11/2″ × 4 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.; flush
with top surface; 4″ × 6″ x 13 SWG mesh
reinforcement 1″ from bottom surface;
6′6″ span restrained.|150 psf|1 hr
3 min|||7|1, 2|1| |F/C-4-RC-13|41/2″|41/2″ thick (5200 psi) deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 71/4″ pitch with7/8″ cover;3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 33/4″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|140 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-14|41/2″|41/2″ deep (2525 psi) concrete deck;1/4″
reinforcement bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″
cover;3/8″ main reinforcement bars at
33/8″ pitch perpendicular with1/2″ cover;
13′1″ span restrained.|150 psf|42 min|||7|1, 5|2/3| |F/C-4-RC-15|41/2″|41/2″ deep (4830 psi) concrete deck;
11/2″ × No.
CPC § 1320.0 Medium relevance — show source text
Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .285

1320.0 Joints and Connections . . . . . . . .286

1320.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .286

1320.2 Changes in Direction . . . . . . . . . .286

1321.0 Brazed Joints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .286

1321.1 Brazed Joints and Fittings . . . . . .286

1321.2 Tube Joints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .286

1321.3 Filler Metals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .286

1321.4 Copper-to-Copper Joints . . . . . . .286

1321.5 Accessible . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .286

1321.6 Purging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .286

1321.7 Tube Ends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .286

1321.8 Cleaning Procedures . . . . . . . . . .286

1321.9 Brazing Dissimilar Metals . . . . . . .287

1321.10 Nitrogen Purge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .287

1321.11 Assembling and Heating Brazed Joints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .287

1321.12 Inspection of Brazed Joints . . . . .287

1322.0 Welded Joints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .288

1322.1 Welded Joints Procedure . . . . . . .288

1322.2 Welding for Stainless Tube . . . . .288

1322.3 Memory Metal Fittings . . . . . . . . .288

1322.4 Axially Swaged Fittings . . . . . . . .288

1322.5 Threaded Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . .288

1322.6 Other Types of Fittings . . . . . . . . .288

1322.7 Prohibited Joints . . . . . . . . . . . . . .288

1323.0 Installation of Piping and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .289

1323.1 Required Pipe Sizing . . . . . . . . . .289

Table 1323.1.5(1) System Sizing – Flow Requirements for Station Outlets and Inlets . . . . . . . . . . . . .289

Table 1323.1.5(2) Maximum Permitted Pressure Loss In Medical Gas and

Medical Vacuum Systems . . . . . . .289

1323.2 Pipe Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .289

Table 1323.1.4(1) Pressure Loss for Medical Air . . . . .290

xlii 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
CPC § 7.7 Medium relevance — show source text
weld; 4″
7.7 lbs “I” beams; ceiling:1/4″ rods 12″ o.c.;
7/8″ gypsum sand plaster.|105 psf|1 hr
35 min|||6|2, 4,
9, 10|11/2| |F/C-S-15|1″|Floor finish: 11/2″ L.W. concrete;1/2″ limestone
cement; plate cont. weld; 5″, 10 lbs “I” beams;
ceiling:1/4″ rods, 12″ o.c. tack welded to
beams; metal lath; 1″ P. C. plaster.|165 psf|3 hrs
20 min|||6|4, 9,
11|31/3| |F/C-S-16|1″|10′ × 13′6″; S.J. 103, 24″ o.c.; deck: 2″
concrete, 1:2:4; membrane: furring 12″ o.c.;
clips D, E, F, G; hexagonal mesh reinforce-
ment; 1″ thick plaster, 1.5:2; 1.5:3.|145 psf|4 hrs
26 min|||3|2, 4, 8|41/3| |F/C-S-17|1″|10′ × 13′6″; S.J. 103, 24″ o.c.; deck: 3.4 lbs rib
lath; 6″ × 6″ 10 × 10 gage reinforcement; 2″
deck 1:2:4 gravel concrete; membrane: furring
16″ o.c.; clips D, E, F, G; 1″ plaster.|145 psf|1 hr
42 min|||3|2, 4, 8|12/3| |F/C-S-18|11/8″|10′ × 13′6″; S.J. 103, 24″ o.c.; deck: 2″ concrete
1:2:4; membrane: furring 12″ o.c.; clips C, E, F,
G; diagonal wire reinforcement; 11/8″ plaster.|145 psf|2 hrs
44 min|||3|2, 4, 8|22/3| |F/C-S-19|11/8″|10′ × 13′6″; S.J. 103, 24″ o.c.; deck: 11/2″
gypsum concrete over;1/2″ gypsum board
base; membrane: furring 12″ o.c.; clips D, E, F,
G; 11/8″ plaster, 1.5:2; 1.5:3.|145 psf|1 hr
40 min|||3|2, 3, 8|12/3| |F/C-S-20|11/8″|21/2″ cinder concrete;1/2″ topping; plate 6″
welds 12″ o.c.; 5″ 18.9 lbs “H” center; 5″ 10 lbs
“I” ends; 1″ channels 18″ o.c.
California Plumbing Code Medium relevance — show source text
; 2′ C.R.S. with 1″ cover on
both top and bottom flanges; 13′1″ span
restrained.|60 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-6-RC-34|61/4″|61/4″ thick; 43/4″ (5120 psi) concrete core;
1″ T&G board flooring;1/2″ plaster under-
coat; 4″ × 3″ × 10 lbs R.S.J.; 3′ C.R.S. flush
with top surface concrete; 12′ span simply
supported; 2″ × 1′3″ clinker concrete
insert.|100 psf|4 hrs|||7|1, 7|4| |F/C-6-RC-35|61/4″|43/4″ (3600 psi) concrete core; 1″ T&G
board flooring;1/2″ plaster undercoat; 4″ ×
3″ × 10 lbs R.S.J.; 3′ C.R.S. flush with top
surface concrete; 12′ span simply
supported; 2″ × 1′3″ clinker concrete
insert.|100 psf|2 hrs
30 min|||7|1, 5|21/2| |F/C-6-RC-36|61/4″|43/4″ (2800 psi) concrete core; 1″ T&G
board flooring;1/2″ plaster undercoat; 4″ ×
3″ × 10 lbs R.S.J.; 3′ C.R.S. flush with top
surface concrete; 12″ span simply
supported; 2″ × 1′3″ clinker concrete
insert.|80 psf|4 hrs|||7|1, 7|4| |F/C-7-RC-37|7″|(3640 psi) concrete deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 6″ pitch with 11/2″ cover;1/4″
reinforcement bars at 5″ pitch perpendic-
ular with 11/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|169 psf|6 hrs|||7|1, 14|6| |F/C-7-RC-38|7″|(4060 psi) concrete deck; 4″ × 3″ × 10 lbs
R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S. with 11/2″ cover on both
top and bottom flanges; 4″ × 6″ × 13 SWG
mesh reinforcement 11/2″ from bottom of
slab; 13′1″ span restrained.|175 psf|6 hrs|||7|1, 14|6| |F/C-7-RC-39|71/4″|53/4″ (4010 psi) concrete core; 1″ T&G
board flooring;1/2″ plaster undercoat;
4″ × 3″ × 10 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.
CPC § 18.6 Medium relevance — show source text
** Flexible metallic (copper and stainless steel), reinforced flexible, braided stainless steel, or polymer braided with EPDM core connectors that connect a water heater to the piping system shall comply with ASME A112.18.6/CSA B125.6. Copper, copper alloy, or stainless steel flexible connectors shall not exceed 24 inches (610 mm). PEX, PEX-AL-PEX, PE-AL-PE, or PE-RT tubing shall not be installed within the first 18 inches (457 mm) of piping connected to a water heater. [BSC, HCD 1 & HCD 2] PEX-AL-PEX is not adopted for use in potable water supply and distribution systems.

605.0 Joints and Connections.

605.1 Copper or Copper Alloy Pipe, Tubing, and Joints. Joining methods for copper or copper alloy pipe, tubing, and fittings shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and shall comply with Section 605.1.1 through Section 605.1.5. 605.1.1 Brazed Joints. Brazed joints between copper or copper alloy pipe or tubing and fittings shall be made with brazing alloys having a liquid temperature above 1000°F (538°C). The joint surfaces to be brazed shall be cleaned bright by either manual or mechanical means. Tubing shall be cut square and reamed to full inside diameter. Brazing flux shall be applied to the joint surfaces where required by manufacturer’s recommendation. Brazing filler metal shall conform to AWS A5.8 and shall be applied at the point where the pipe or tubing enters the socket of the fitting. 605.1.2 Flared Joints. Flared joints for soft copper or copper alloy water tubing shall be made with fittings that comply with the applicable standards referenced in Table 604.1. Pipe or tubing shall be cut square using an appropriate tubing cutter. The tubing shall be reamed to full inside diameter, resized to round, and expanded with a proper flaring tool.

605.1.3 Mechanical Joints. Mechanical joints shall include, but are not limited to, compression, flanged, grooved, pressed, and push fit fittings. 605.1.3.1 Mechanically Formed Tee Fittings. Mechanically formed tee fittings shall have extracted collars that shall be formed in a continuous operation consisting of drilling a pilot hole and drawing out the pipe or tube surface to form a collar having a height not less than three times the thickness of the branch tube wall. The branch pipe or tube shall be notched to conform to the inner curve of the run pipe or tube and shall have two dimple depth stops to ensure that penetration of the branch pipe or tube into the collar is of a depth for brazing and that the branch pipe or tube does not obstruct the flow in the main line pipe or tube. Dimple depth stops shall be in line with the run of the pipe or tube. The second dimple shall be ¼ of an inch (6.4 mm) above the first and shall serve as a visual point of inspection. Fittings and joints shall be made by brazing. Soldered joints shall not be permitted. 605.1.3.2 Press-Connect Fittings. Press-connect fittings for copper or copper alloy pipe or tubing shall have an elastomeric o-ring that forms the joint.
CPC § 3.2 Medium relevance — show source text
The lead shall be caulked thoroughly at the inside and outside edges of the joint. After caulking, the finished joint shall not exceed [1] ⁄ 8 of an inch (3.2 mm) below the rim of the hub. No paint, varnish, or other coatings shall be permitted on the joining material until after the joint has been tested and approved.

705.2.2 Mechanical Joints and Compression Joints. Mechanical joints for cast-iron pipe and fittings shall be of the elastomeric compression type or mechanical joint couplings. Compression type joints with an elastomeric gasket for cast-iron hub and spigot pipe shall comply with ASTM C564 and be tested in accordance with ASTM C1563. Hub and spigot shall be clean and

2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 169

), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

SANITARY DRAINAGE

free of dirt, mud, sand, and foreign materials. Cut pipe shall be free from sharp edges. Fold and insert gasket into the hub. Lubricate the joint following manufacturer’s instructions. Insert spigot into hub until the spigot end of the pipe bottom out in the hub. Use the same procedure for the installation of fittings.

A mechanical joint shielded coupling type for hubless cast-iron pipe and fittings shall have a metallic shield that complies with ASTM A1056, ASTM C1277, ASTM C1540, or CISPI 310. The elastomeric gasket shall comply with ASTM C564. Hubless cast-iron pipe and fittings shall be clean and free of dirt, mud, sand, and foreign materials. Cut pipe shall be free from sharp edges. Gasket shall be placed on the end of the pipe or fitting and the stainless steel shield and clamp assembly on the end of the other pipe or fitting. Pipe or fittings shall be seated against the center stop inside the elastomeric sleeve. Slide the stainless steel shield and clamp assembly into a position centered over the gasket and tighten. Bands shall be tightened using an approved calibrated torque wrench specifically set by the manufacturer of the couplings.

705.3 Copper or Copper Alloy Pipe (DWV) and Joints. Joining methods for copper or copper alloy pipe and fittings shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and shall comply with Section 705.3.1 through Section 705.3.4.

705.3.1 Brazed Joints. Brazed joints between copper or copper alloy pipe and fittings shall be made with brazing alloys having a liquid temperature above 1000°F (538°C). The joint surfaces to be brazed shall be cleaned bright by either manual or mechanical means. Piping shall be cut square and reamed to full inside diameter. Brazing flux shall be applied to the joint surfaces where required by manufacturer’s recommendation. Brazing filler metal shall conform to AWS A5.8 and shall be

applied at the point where the pipe or tubing enters the socket of the fitting.

705.3.2 Mechanical Joints. Mechanical joints in copper or copper alloy piping shall be made with a mechanical coupling with grooved end piping or approved joint designed for the specific application.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum temperature rating required for memory metal and axially swaged fittings?

Memory metal and axially swaged fittings must have a temperature rating not less than 1000°F (538°C). § 1322.3, § 1322.4.

Can I use compression or flared fittings for medical gas station outlets?

No. Flared and compression‑type connections and several other straight‑threaded connections are explicitly prohibited in medical gas and vacuum distribution systems. § 1322.7.

Do brazing filler metals have a required standard?

Yes. Filler metals must be compatible with the base metals and comply with AWS A5.8; copper‑to‑copper brazing requires BCuP series filler without flux. § 1321.3, § 1321.4.

Are axially swaged fittings allowed to be separable (for future disassembly)?

No. When complete, axially swaged fittings used in medical gas/vacuum systems must be permanent and nonseparable. § 1322.4.

If I use a listed metallic press fitting, is that automatically acceptable?

Only if the fitting, when made up, provides the mechanical, thermal, and sealing integrity of a brazed joint or is otherwise listed/approved for the application. Check § 1322.6 and the fitting listing.

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Related in the CPC

Approved piping materials for medical gas and medical-surgical vacuum systems

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Prohibited joints and fittings (flared, compression, push-fit, certain unions)

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California Plumbing Code