I know hard copper pipe can flex a little.

I need to run a 1/2" type L copper pipe along (in other words parallel) an interior wall through the wall cavity. It will be passing through five 2x6 wood studs before getting to where I need it to. If I drill five 3/4" diameter holes through each of these studs, and the studs are spaced 16" on center.

Do I have any chance of flexing & finessing this long 1/2" pipe through these holes? Or do I need to cut them in short sections and solder a coupling between each pair of studs?

It depends on how far back from the surface these holes are drilled.

The center of the holes will be about 1.5" from the face of the studs.

drill the hole closer to the edge so there is less chance of bending or kinking the copper pipe. add a metal stud guard for protection

I was able to persuade a 1.5" PVC line in between studs with a little mechanical help. Different material, I know, but 1/2" Type L through a 3/4" hole can't be much tougher.

[/URL]

*******************************
Links to the State of Wisconsin Plumbing Code:
[docs.legis.wisconsin.gov]
*******************************
I am not a plumber.
*******************************

Drill a 1-3/8" hole, slide pipe thru, then install pipe insulator to support pipe etc...

[#$%&]

That's pretty amazing you are able to thread that pipe through. I think the 1/2" copper will be much more flex tolerant due to such difference in diameter.

1-3/8" hole? The pipe is only 1/2" nominal. I plan on putting some sleeves but not this big.

You should be able to flex it that much.

make the first hole a bit larger and close to the edge. after that the rest of the holes can be in the center. do use a stud guard on the first hole..

The insulators that Curly was talking about look like this. I personally like them:

Thanks Steve g - good picture.