Which process is used for the production of copper pipes?

The production of copper pipes primarily utilizes the extrusion process. In extrusion, a solid block of copper, known as a billet, is heated and then forced through a die, resulting in a continuous pipe shape that can be cut to desired lengths. This method is highly efficient for creating pipes, as it allows for precise control of dimensions and material properties.

Extrusion is particularly well-suited for copper because it improves the material's workability and structural integrity, which is essential for the various applications of copper pipes, such as plumbing and HVAC systems. The ability to produce complex cross-sections and long lengths without significant waste makes extrusion a preferred method in manufacturing copper pipes.

In contrast, forging, rolling, or milling are processes more commonly associated with shaping metals into forms that do not require the same continuous, hollow structures as pipes. Forging typically involves shaping metal through compressive forces, rolling is used to reduce thickness or change the shape of metal into sheets or strips, and milling encompasses cutting and shaping solid materials. These processes are less efficient for producing the specific hollow profiles needed for pipes.