MUELLER EUROPE LTD
136 OXFORD STREET
BILSTON
WEST MIDLANDS WV14 7DS
Tel: 01902 499700
Fax:
Suppliers of: Copper Tube, Plastic Covered Copper Tube, Plastic Coated Copper Tube, Gas Pipes, Copper Pipes, Copper Piping
Mueller Europe is UK’s leader in the manufacturing and distribution of high-performance copper tubes and coils! Our Wednesbury and Yorkshire brands are perfect for a wide range of applications including plumbing, heating, and industrial needs, complemented by our premium Mueller brand for air-conditioning and refrigeration. The reputable brands are made from start to finish in Great Britain. From our European headquarters in West Midlands, we operate the continent’s most modern, sophisticated and sustainable plant in Europe. As part of the larger Mueller Industries Inc., Mueller Europe combines decades of expertise with advanced technology to produce copper tubes and coils that meet the highest industry standards.
Copper Sustainability Partnership
By focusing on sustainability, innovation, quality, and education, Mueller Europe continues to lead in the copper tube manufacturing sector, ensuring that its products not only meet but exceed customer expectations. Through its work with CUSP, Mueller Europe participates in educational and advocacy efforts aimed at highlighting the advantages of copper. This includes engaging with various industry stakeholders, from engineers and architects to consumers, to demonstrate the material’s benefits and versatility. Such initiatives help create a greater understanding and appreciation of copper. Copper is 100% recyclable.
We are also committed to sustainability, implementing environmentally friendly practices in our manufacturing processes. By reducing waste and optimizing resource use, Mueller Europe minimizes its environmental impact while delivering superior premium copper tubes and coils.
Approvals and Certifications:
We take immense pride in our commitment to quality, safety, and environmental responsibility. Our dedication is recognized through numerous prestigious national and international approvals, setting us apart as leaders in the copper tube industry. Each tube undergoes rigorous testing to guarantee performance and longevity, providing customers with peace of mind.
Wednesbury and Yorkshire Copper Tube holds many national and international approvals for copper tube, including:
- UK Kitemark approvals for plumbing tube and medical gas tubes;
- European CE mark;
- ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System and ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management system;
- plus, the approvals for China, Ireland, Malaysia and the Netherlands.
Copper tubes are manufactured to European specification EN1057 and supplied in 3 different tempers:
- Half-hard (R250) straight lengths
- Hard (R290) straight lengths
- Soft (R220) coils
Wednesbury Copper Tube
Wednesbury’s copper tubes are renowned for their outstanding performance and value, catering to a wide range of needs, whether residential, medical, or industrial. Made in Great Britain and from high-quality copper, these tubes are resilient against corrosion and wear, ensuring a long-lasting performance that stands the test of time.
These versatile tubes are ideal for transporting hot and cold water, central heating systems, and sanitary uses. Wednesbury Copper Tubes are the preferred choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts, designed to withstand the rigorous demands of residential and commercial projects alike.
The diverse product lines include the durable plumbing tubes of Table X, the sturdy industrial tubes of Table Y, and the specialized options of Table W. Each product is engineered to meet strict quality standards, ensuring suitability for specific applications.
Table X - Black Label
Available in a variety of tube sizes, ensuring suitability for diverse applications Wednesbury Copper Tube has got you covered. The available sizes include 15mm outer diameter through to 159mm and lengths in 2, 3, 6 and 5.8 metres. These sizes cater to both residential and commercial installations, providing flexibility and adaptability for any project requirements. The finishes include plain copper, Protec yellow PVC coated, Protec white PVC coated, Medical gas and Chrome plated finish.
Table Y – White Label
Available in a range of diameters from 15mm to 108mm and each tube comes in a convenient length of 5.8 metres, providing ample coverage for various installation requirements. It offers several finishes to meet different applications including plain Copper, Protec White PVC coated and Medical gas copper tubes. The PVC coated copper tube finish offers added protection and durability, with the white PVC coating blending seamlessly with modern interiors. The medical gas copper tubes are specifically designed for medical and healthcare facilities, this variant ensures the safe and efficient transport of medical gases. It adheres to strict hygiene and safety standards, making it suitable for critical applications. Soft temper coils are also available from 15mm to 28mm
Table W – Blue Label
These Microbore copper coils are available in a variety of sizes to suit your specific requirements, ranging from 6mm to 10mm. Engineered to stand the test of time these coils offer multiple coating options to match any design preference or requirement. The coils are available in plain copper, Protec white PVC coated, Protec yellow PVC coated and Protec 2000.
Yorkshire Copper Tube
Yorkshire Copper Tube offers an extensive range of copper tube and coils, designed to meet the diverse needs of the industries it works in. They are available in various sizes to accommodate different installation requirements. The brand’s longevity is a testament to its ability to adapt to changing market demands while maintaining its core values of quality and service.
The Yorkex range of Yorkshire Copper Tubes offers versatile and high-quality copper tubing solutions suitable for a variety of applications. Made in Great Britain, Yorkshire Copper Tube is known for its durability, reliability, and ease of installation, these tubes are a popular choice for both domestic and industrial use. Available in different sizes, from 15mm to 159mm and finishes including, plain copper, Kuterlex yellow, white and green, Chrome and medical gas, the Yorkex range meets diverse needs while maintaining exceptional performance standards.Yorkex Yellow Copper Tubes are specially designed for gas applications, easily identifiable by their distinctive yellow finish. This colouring ensures safety and compliance with industry standards, making them an excellent choice for installations where gas is involved.
With a wall thickness significantly greater than that of Yorkex, Kuterlon offers the option of a higher- pressure rating. Kuterlon is supplied both in straight length and coil form and, when supplied with a Kuterlex coating, it is the ideal product for underground applications. Available from 15mm to 108mm and in plain copper and medical gas copper tube and 15mm to 28mm in coils, Yorkshire has you covered. The Kuterlon coils are available in a yellow and white PVC coated finish. The extra wall thickness also allows Kuterlon to be used on certain pressurised steam installations with a maximum working temperature of 205°C.
The Minibore Coils Range is available in multiple sizes to accommodate various installation requirements designed to meet the specific needs of modern plumbing and heating systems. Available in sizes and lengths from, 6mm to 10mm diameter and a variety of finishes including Kuterlex white and yellow PVC coated and plain copper.
Further Yorkshire product information
Medical Gas - CLEANED TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF BS EN 13348 AND HTM 02-01
Yorkshire Medical Gas Tubes are specially cleaned and packed to ensure they are suitable for medical gases and/or vacuum lines. In oxygen lines, spontaneous combustion can take place with any greases or hydrocarbon in the tube, and the cleaning process eliminates this risk. Additionally, the cleaning takes away malodours from any residual lubricants that may taint breathable gases.
Kuterlex - PLASTIC COATED COPPER TUBE TO BS EN 13349 / BS EN 1057
Kuterlex is copper tube coated with a seamless plastic cover which protects the copper tube against aggressive materials. The Kuterlex cover eliminates time-consuming wrapping operations. It is also colour coded to identify the services carried in accordance with UK local authority specifications and BS 1710: 2014, “Specification for identification of pipelines and services”.
Kuterlex Plus - PLASTIC COATED COPPER TUBE TO BS EN 13349 / BS EN 1057
Kuterlex is copper tube coated with a seamless plastics cover, comprising a ribbed inner profile, which protects the copper tube against aggressive materials. The Kuterlex cover eliminates time-consuming wrapping operations. It is also colour coded to identify the services carried in accordance with UK local authority specifications and BS 1710: 2014, “Specification for identification of pipelines and services”.
Kuterlex Gas - PLASTIC COATED COPPER TUBE TO BS EN 13349 / BS EN 1057
Kuterlex Gas products are copper coils and straight lengths coated with a protective yellow seamless plastic cover which safeguards against external corrosion and provides service identification. The Kuterlex plastic cover eliminates laborious wrapping operations and is colour coded to identify the services carried as gasses in accordance with local authority specifications and BS 1710: 2014, “Specification for identification of pipelines and services”.
Further Technical information is available to download from the BPi Download Library or from the manufacturer’s own website.
Copper Secures Safe and Sustainable Water Infrastructure
Copper Secures Safe and Sustainable Water Infrastructure
The UK’s water infrastructure is at a critical juncture, with the need for substantial investment and reform becoming ever more pressing. The country faces increasing risks from outdated systems, where aging pipes and materials such as lead and plastic can lead to contamination and water leaks.
In light of this, the use of copper pipes continues to stand out as a future-proof solution to ensure safe, sustainable, and efficient water delivery.
Copper’s unmatched durability and corrosion resistance
Copper has long been celebrated for its superior durability and resistance to corrosion, as opposed to plastic pipes, which are heavily prone to degradation and failure over time.
Plastic pipes, while often used for their initial low cost, can deteriorate when exposed to incompatible materials such as caulks, fire-stopping materials, leak detection fluids and even paints. This can lead to escape of water (EOW) incidents, a growing problem that costs UK insurers £2.5 million a day, or nearly £1 billion annually, according to the Association of British Insurers (ABI).
In contrast, copper pipes do not pose the same risks of contamination as plastic alternatives. With the material not only corrosion-resistant but also entirely non-toxic preventing harmful substances from leaching into the water supply, ensuring that drinking water remains safe.
As the UK continues to modernise its infrastructure, copper’s durability, reliability, and resistance to degradation provide a robust, long-term solution that outperforms plastic and other alternatives.
Meeting regulatory and public health demands
The £104 billion investment plan approved by Ofwat for the 2025–2030 period is one of the largest in the sector’s history and will be crucial for modernising the UK’s water infrastructure. However, there is significant pressure on water companies to improve their performance. According to Ofwat’s Forward Programme 2025-2026, poor performance cost the sector £165.2 million in 2023-24, as companies fell behind on key service levels set at PR19.
To address these issues, Ofwat is introducing several new initiatives, such as the Water Efficiency Fund and the development of smart metering systems. These efforts are designed to help water companies modernise infrastructure while simultaneously improving efficiency and reducing demand. However, the success of these initiatives relies on the use of robust materials that stand the test of time. Copper pipes, with their 20-year advantage in lifespan over plastic pipes, corrosion resistance, and non-toxic properties, align perfectly with the regulatory objectives outlined for the next five years.
Replacing outdated pipes is not only about improving performance, but also a matter of public health. The antimicrobial properties of copper are a crucial asset in the fight against water contamination, ensuring that the pipes themselves contribute to maintaining the highest standards of water quality. This is particularly relevant given the public health risks associated with lead contamination and microplastics found in older or plastic pipes.
Copper’s natural antimicrobial properties effectively kill harmful bacteria such as E. coli and MRSA, with over 99.9% eliminated within two hours, according to EPA Findings.
It also inhibits viruses like influenza and COVID-19 faster than plastic or stainless-steel surfaces. By preventing bacterial growth, these qualities make copper ideal for maintaining sterility in water systems and reducing waterborne disease risks.
This is a major advantage over plastic pipes, which can harbour bacteria and other pathogens, posing an increased risk to public health.
Copper’s role in achieving 2025–2030 sustainability goals
As the world continues to face environmental challenges, sustainability remains a top priority. Copper offers numerous environmental benefits that align with the objectives of the 2025–2030 infrastructure investment plan, with copper being fully recyclable and can be reused indefinitely without losing its properties. This makes it an environmentally sustainable material, in comparison to plastic pipes, which are historically made from fossil fuels and contribute significantly to global oil consumption.
The construction industry's growing reliance on plastics, which are prone to failure and costly to repair, further exacerbates the environmental and financial burden. Plastic pipes account for 4-8% of global oil consumption, a figure that is set to increase as demand for plastics grows. In contrast, copper offers a more sustainable, long-term alternative, reducing the environmental impact of the water sector.
By opting for copper, we not only reduce the risks associated with plastic pipes but also contribute to a more sustainable future, lowering carbon footprints and decreasing dependence on fossil fuels.
Copper as the future of water infrastructure
As the UK moves forward with the largest investment programme since privatisation, copper pipes will play a vital role in ensuring a safe, sustainable, and efficient water infrastructure. Copper’s unparalleled durability, corrosion resistance, antimicrobial properties, along with its environmental benefits make it the ideal material to meet the challenges of modernising the water sector.
The risks associated with outdated infrastructure, such as contamination from lead, microplastics, and the costly failures of plastic pipes, underscore the urgent need for change.
Copper provides a reliable, long-term solution that aligns with regulatory objectives whilst also promoting public health and sustainability. Copper is not only the right choice - it is the only choice for a safe, reliable, and sustainable water supply in the UK.
The Copper Sustainability Partnership
Third Floor, New Oxford House, 16 Waterloo Street, Birmingham, B2 5UG, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 121 285 3760
Email: info@cuspuk.com
Why Plastic Pipes in Building Risers Are a Fire Safety Gamble
Modern skylines showcase towering high-rises, a testament to architectural ingenuity and urban density. However, behind their sleek designs lies a hidden fire safety risk—plastic pipes in building risers.
Building risers are vertical shafts running through every floor of a multi-storey structure, housing essential services like water pipes, electrical cables, and ventilation ducts. They are the building’s central nervous system, but if not properly designed, they can also serve as a conduit for fire. The use of plastic pipes in these spaces has raised serious concerns among fire safety experts, and it’s time to address why this practice is a gamble
The Illusion of Cost Savings
Plastic pipes have become a popular choice in construction due to their lower upfront cost compared to materials like copper. However, these initial cost savings can come at a much higher price in terms of safety and long-term sustainability.
When considering the overall implications, the use of plastic pipes presents significant risks. These include their contribution to fire spread, their environmental impact, and their inability to match the durability and fire resistance of traditional materials.
Developers and contractors who prioritise cost-cutting over safety may be placing occupants at greater risk. As the saying goes, “you get what you pay for,” and in this case, the hidden costs can be catastrophic.
The Riser Effect: Accelerating Fire Spread
By design, building risers create a pathway for fire to travel vertically through a structure. In the event of a fire, flames and smoke can quickly spread through these shafts, engulfing multiple floors in minutes. Plastic pipes exacerbate this problem in several ways:
1. Increased fire load: plastic pipes add fuel to the fire, intensifying and prolonging its spread. This increases the risk of structural damage and collapse.
2. Rapid flame spread: plastic pipes ignite easily, allowing flames to race through risers. This can block escape routes and trap occupants.
3. Toxic smoke and fumes: burning plastic releases harmful chemicals like carbon monoxide, dioxins, and cyanide. These fumes can incapacitate building occupants and hinder firefighters.
Fire-Stopping Challenges
One of the greatest challenges with plastic pipes is containing fires once they start. Fire-stopping - the practice of sealing gaps in walls and floors to prevent fire spread - becomes exponentially more complex when plastic pipes are involved. Unlike copper, plastic melts at lower temperatures, creating holes in fire-rated barriers. These breaches act as channels for flames, smoke, and fumes.
To counteract this, specialised fire-stopping systems are required. These include collars and sealants designed to account for the melting behaviour of plastic. However, these solutions are not foolproof. Even minor installation errors, such as uneven sealant application, can compromise the entire system’s effectiveness.
Evidence from Fire Safety Tests
Extensive research conducted by CuSP and Warrington Fire has shown that plastic pipes perform poorly in fire safety tests compared to copper. Tests revealed that plastic pipes ignite quickly, burn rapidly, and release toxic fumes. Copper pipes, on the other hand, are non-combustible, release minimal smoke, and do not produce dangerous levels of toxic emissions. These findings make a compelling case for reconsidering the use of plastic pipes in building risers.
Copper: A Safer, More Sustainable Alternative
Copper has long been recognised as a reliable material for plumbing and building infrastructure. Its inherent fire resistance, durability, and recyclability make it an ideal choice for critical applications like risers. By choosing copper, developers can significantly enhance fire safety while also benefiting from its longevity and low environmental impact.
The Need for Regulatory Reform
Current building codes in many regions fail to adequately address the fire risks posed by plastic pipes in high-rise structures. While fire safety is a stated priority for the construction industry, regulations often lag the latest research and testing outcomes. Stricter guidelines must be implemented to limit or prohibit the use of combustible materials like plastic in building risers. This is particularly crucial for high-rise buildings where the stakes are higher due to the potential for rapid vertical fire spread.
Building a Safer Future
The safety of our homes and cities depends on the choices made by construction professionals, homeowners, and policymakers. By prioritising fire-resistant materials and advocating for stricter regulations, we can reduce risks and ensure that buildings are safe for generations to come. The next time you admire a skyscraper or walk through a high-rise, remember: the materials hidden behind the walls can mean the difference between safety and disaster. When it comes to fire safety, there is no room for compromise. It’s time to make informed decisions that protect lives and safeguard our communities.
The Copper Sustainability Partnership
Third Floor, New Oxford House, 16 Waterloo Street, Birmingham, B2 5UG, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 121 285 3760
Email: info@cuspuk.com
