Choosing the Right Tubing for Your Project:A Simple Guide to GLA’s Materials & Specs

When it comes to industrial, HVAC, and mechanical applications, choosing the right tubing is one of the most important steps in getting a project off the ground. But with dozens of materials, sizes, and alloy options out there, it’s not always easy to know where to start.

At GLA, we make it easier. Whether you're ordering for a large-scale facility or a precision component, we supply a wide range of tubing materials—each suited for specific environments and performance needs. This guide breaks down the products we offer so you can confidently select the tubing that fits your application.

Copper Tubing: Reliable, Durable, and Versatile

OD Range: .040" – 3.125"

Wall Thickness: .004" – .367"

Alloys: C101, C102, C120, C122, C194

Copper remains one of the most dependable materials on the market. Its excellent thermal and electrical conductivity make it ideal for HVAC systems, plumbing, heat exchangers, and industrial applications that require durability and long service life.

With options in both coils and straight lengths, copper tubing offers flexibility during installation and dependable performance in high-pressure and high-temperature environments.

Brass Tubing: Strong, Attractive, and Machinable

Coils: .040" – .875" OD, .040" – .875" WT (C220, C230)

Straight Lengths: .125" – 2.625" OD, .010" – .175" WT (C220, C230, C260, C270, C435, C443)

Brass is a go-to choice for projects that require strength, corrosion resistance, and an attractive finish. Its smooth machinability makes it ideal for decorative hardware, plumbing components, instrumentation, and low-friction mechanical parts.

Because GLA offers a variety of brass alloys, you can match the right combination of hardness, formability, and corrosion resistance to your specific job.

Copper Nickel Tubing: Built for Corrosive Environments

OD Range: .040" – 2.625"

Wall Thickness: .010" – .175"

Alloys: C706, C710, C715, C740, C752

When corrosion resistance is the priority—especially in saltwater or chemical-heavy environments—copper nickel is the material of choice. Known for its exceptional stability, it performs well under high pressure and temperature, making it a favorite for marine systems, desalination plants, heat exchangers, and industrial cooling applications.

If your project is operating in harsh conditions, copper nickel offers the reliability you need.

Aluminum Tubing: Lightweight and Cost-Effective

Coils: .040" – .750" OD

Straight Lengths: .040" – 2.000" OD

Wall Thickness: .012" – .200"

Alloys: A91100, A93003

For applications that benefit from reduced weight without sacrificing strength, aluminum is an excellent fit. Commonly used in automotive systems, HVAC components, pneumatic lines, and lightweight structural projects, aluminum tubing provides good corrosion resistance and outstanding value.

GLA stocks aluminum in a broad range of sizes to fit both large and small-scale applications.

Leaded Brass Tubing: Precision Machining Made Easy

OD Range: .109" – 1.375"

Wall Thickness: .010" – .200"

Alloys: C330, C332

Leaded brass is the preferred choice when your project requires tight tolerances and smooth machining. Its superior cutability makes it ideal for fittings, valves, and high-precision components across multiple industries.

When you need tubing that machines cleanly and consistently, this alloy delivers.

Bourdon Tube Material: For Pressure & Instrumentation

OD Range: .200" – .875"

Wall Thickness: .004" – .045"

Alloys: C510, C521

Bourdon tube material is engineered for instrumentation, especially pressure-measuring equipment. With excellent spring properties and stable responsiveness, it is essential for creating reliable gauges and sensors.

GLA supplies material specifically designed for accuracy in measurement applications.

Not Sure Which One You Need? Start with These Four Questions

1. What environment will the tubing operate in? (water, refrigerant, saltwater, chemicals, high heat)

2. What performance factors matter most? (corrosion resistance, conductivity, machinability, weight)

3. What OD and wall thickness does your system require?

4. Do you need the flexibility of coils or the rigidity of straight lengths?

If you’re not sure how to answer these, our team is happy to walk you through the options.

Why Customers Trust GLA

From HVAC to marine to industrial manufacturing, our customers know they can count on us for:

• A wide range of tubing sizes and alloys

• Coils and straight lengths for every application

• Fast turnaround times

• Competitive pricing

• Reliable, industrial-grade quality

• Knowledgeable service and support

Whether you already know what you need or you’re exploring options, GLA has the materials, expertise, and inventory to get your project moving.