1/2 inch x 7lb Lead to 15mm Copper Compression Coupling

The 1/2″ 7lb Lead to 15mm Copper Compression Coupling is a straight lead-to-copper joint for the most common supply size: half inch, 7lb lead to 15mm copper tube. It has a lead grip on one side and a 15mm compression joint on the other, in a brass Lead Line body, for plumbers on older houses.

Half inch 7lb is the common size of lead supply pipe in older houses and many Glasgow tenements. You’ll reach for this coupling when replacing an old stop valve, when internal plumbing renewed in copper needs tying into the incoming lead, or when patching a leak on the lead itself. It avoids wiped joints, which few plumbers do these days.

Confirm the weight of your lead before you buy. Half inch also comes in 6lb and 9lb, and the outside diameter differs for each, so callipers or a sample at the counter will settle it. Square the cut, re-round the lead and don’t overtighten, as lead deforms. The copper side is a normal compression joint. The 1/2″ 7lb Lead to 15mm Copper Compression Coupling sits with the full range of lead pipe connectors.

Specification

• Brand: Lead Line
• Material: Brass
• Connection: 1/2 inch lead (7lb) x 15mm copper compression
• Sizes: 1/2 inch 7lb lead x 15mm copper
• Suitable for: Cold mains water supply pipe

Common Questions

What does the lb number on lead pipe mean? It’s the weight of the pipe per yard, and it tells you the wall thickness. Two pipes with the same bore but different weights have different outside diameters, so a set for one weight won’t grip the other properly.

How do I make the compression joint on the copper side? Cut the copper square and deburr it, slide on the nut and olive, push the pipe fully home and tighten until the olive grips, then a little more. Don’t overdo it, as the lead end needs gentle handling too.

Does swapping lead for plastic affect the earthing? It can. If metal pipe that formed part of the earth path is replaced with plastic, the bonding needs checking and may need a jumper. Get an electrician to look if you’re unsure.

Should I replace the lead pipe instead? Where you can, yes. Scottish Water advise replacing lead supply pipe, and a lead connector is best seen as a link between old and new until that’s done.

Collect from our Glasgow shop at 555 South Street G14 0QX or order online. Open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm, Sat-Sun 8am-1pm.