Copper U Bend Fittings / Return Bends for HVAC & Heat Exchangers
Our copper U-bend fittings (return bends) are precision-engineered components designed for use in heat exchangers, condensers, evaporators and HVAC/R systems. Made from high-quality seamless copper tube, these fittings ensure reliable performance, excellent heat transfer and long service life in demanding refrigeration and air conditioning applications.
Key Features
- Material: Premium seamless copper tube, compliant with ASTM B280 / B75 or equivalent standards
- Shape: 180° copper U-bends (return bends) for parallel tube connections
- Size Range: Outer diameter from 1/4" to 1-1/8" (approx. 6 mm to 28 mm)
- Applications: Air conditioners, refrigeration systems, condensers, evaporators, chillers and industrial heat exchangers
- Performance: High thermal conductivity, good corrosion resistance and smooth inner surface for efficient heat transfer
- Installation: Easy brazing or welding with accurate tube ends for tight, leak-resistant connections
- Customization: OEM sizes, wall thickness, bending radius and packaging available upon request
Typical Applications
- Fin-tube heat exchanger coils for HVAC/R units
- Condenser and evaporator coils in split and package air conditioners
- Heat pump systems and chiller units
- Refrigeration cabinets, cold rooms and industrial cooling equipment
Benefits
- Provides smooth refrigerant flow with minimal pressure drop between parallel tubes
- Reduces leakage risk with precise sizing and tight tube-end connections
- Simplifies tube layout and coil bending in condenser and evaporator manufacturing
- Consistent dimensions for automated or semi-automated coil production
Size Chart (Common Sizes)
The following table shows some common sizes of copper U-bend fittings. Other sizes and special center-to-center distances are available on request.
| Tube OD (inch) | Tube OD (mm) | Typical Wall Thickness (mm) | Center-to-Center Distance (mm) | Remark |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/4" | 6.35 | 0.7–0.8 | Custom | For small-capacity coils |
| 5/16" | 7.94 | 0.7–0.8 | Custom | General HVAC/R use |
| 3/8" | 9.52 | 0.8–1.0 | Custom | Common condenser/evaporator size |
| 1/2" | 12.70 | 0.8–1.0 | Custom | Medium-capacity heat exchangers |
| 5/8" | 15.88 | 1.0–1.2 | Custom | High-capacity HVAC systems |
| 3/4" | 19.05 | 1.0–1.2 | Custom | Industrial coils |
| 7/8" | 22.22 | 1.0–1.2 | Custom | Large condenser/evaporator units |
| 1-1/8" | 28.58 | 1.2–1.5 | Custom | Heavy-duty applications |
Customization & Ordering Information
We support OEM and customized production of copper U-bend fittings according to your drawings or samples. To receive a detailed quotation, please provide the following information:
- Tube outer diameter and wall thickness
- Center-to-center distance and leg length of the U bend
- Required quantity for each size
- Application (refrigerant type, working pressure, etc.)
- Special packaging or labeling requirements
Also available in aluminum upon request. KAK manufactures both copper and aluminum return bends for HVAC and refrigeration applications, offering lightweight options for custom systems.
Copper U Bend Fittings FAQ
1. What are copper U bend fittings used for?
Copper U bend fittings (return bends) are mainly used in heat exchangers, condensers, evaporators and HVAC/R coil assemblies. They connect two parallel copper tubes to form a continuous flow path and optimize refrigerant or water circulation.
2. What size range of copper U bends do you supply?
We can supply copper U bend fittings in common tube outer diameters from 1/4" to 7/8" (or customized on request). Center-to-center distance (C–C) and leg length can be produced according to your drawing or sample.
3. Which material do you use for the U bends?
Our copper U bends are made from high-purity C12200 / TP2 deoxidized copper tube, suitable for refrigeration and air conditioning systems with good thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance.
4. Are these U bends suitable for refrigeration and air conditioning systems?
Yes. The U bend fittings are specially designed for refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump systems. They are widely used in fin-tube heat exchangers, condensers and evaporator coils.
5. Can you produce customized U bends according to our drawings?
Of course. We offer OEM and custom fabrication for copper U bend fittings, including special tube sizes, center distances, leg lengths and bending radius. Please send us your drawing or detailed requirements for confirmation.
6. What is the typical wall thickness and working pressure?
Standard wall thickness follows common refrigeration copper tube standards (such as ASTM B280 or equivalent). The working pressure depends on tube size, wall thickness and system design. We can recommend suitable tube specifications based on your working pressure and refrigerant type.
7. What is your minimum order quantity (MOQ) for copper U bend fittings?
For regular sizes, the MOQ is usually one carton per size. For customized sizes or special center distances, the MOQ may be higher. Please contact us with your size list so we can check the exact MOQ for you.
8. How do you pack copper U bend fittings for export?
Copper U bends are normally packed in plastic bags + inner cartons + strong export cartons. Pallet packing is available for LCL or FCL shipments to protect the fittings during transportation. Custom packing with your label or logo can also be arranged.