Copper tubes are used in healthcare to transport medicinal gases. To ensure that medical gases do not become contaminated requires an extremely clean and smooth inner surface. A requirement satisfied by copper tubes.
Today, a centralized MGPS system is required by all hospitals. It is mandatory in critical sections like CCU, OT, ICU, Nursery etc. Copper gas pipelines is advantageous over conventional gas cylinders, especially in life saving situations as it is more reliable and ensures a ceaseless supply of oxygen or vacuum.
The high pressure withstanding capacity, corrosion resistence, durability and ease of installation of Copper tubes makes it an obvious choice. Copper tubes have a proven track record and meet the various standards across the world for medical gas applications.
Safety standards for oxygen and other positive-pressure medical gases require the use of Type K or L copper tube (see ASTM B 819). Special cleanliness requirements are called for because oxygen under pressure may cause the spontaneous combustion of some organic oils (the residual of lubricating oil used during manufacture) and for the safety of patients receiving medical gases.
Copper tube for medical gas lines furnished by the manufacturers should be suitably cleaned and capped or plugged. Care must be taken to prevent contamination of the system when the caps or plugs are removed and tube is installed.