Annealed copper tubing is typically used to replace damaged brake pipes in cars - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question i - 2021

Copper is annealed by subjecting it to high temperatures until it attains a red color, approximately 400°C. This process reduces its hardness and brittleness, making it more malleable.

Once the desired temperature is achieved, the copper is rapidly cooled, usually by immersing it in water. This rapid cooling process helps preserve the softer properties of the metal.

The result of annealing is that the copper becomes significantly softer and more ductile, allowing it to be bent and shaped without the risk of breaking or cracking. This enhanced malleability enables further working of the copper, such as hammering or molding into various shapes as required.