Description
Shock-Absorbing Brass Flaring Hammer for Copper Tubing
Reed's flaring tools for Type K copper tubing call for a brass hammer for copper tubing that absorbs impact without damaging the die or tube. The Reed HAM3 brass hammer weighs 2.8 lbs with a 14-1/2 inch overall length. The soft brass head transfers force cleanly into the flare die. Reed recommends this as the soft-face hammer for flaring with their HF-series tools.
Key Features
- Shock-Absorbing Brass Head. The brass head absorbs striking shock so the force transfers into the flare die without bouncing back into the operator's hand. This is why a brass flaring hammer is recommended over steel when working with copper flare connections.
- Approved for AWWA Tapping Contests. The AWWA pipe tapping competition rules list the Reed HAM3 and the Mueller H-18025 as approved hammers. Crews competing at AWWA events can source their AWWA tapping contest hammer from Cleanflow.
- 2.8 lb Weight, 14-1/2 Inch Length. At 2.8 lbs, the Reed HAM3 brass hammer delivers enough force for clean 45-degree flares on Type K soft copper without over-striking. Reed lists the HAM3 as a shock-absorbing brass hammer for use on copper water service connections.
Specifications
The Reed HAM3 is a brass flaring hammer with a shock-absorbing head. Full specifications are listed below.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Catalog No. | HAM3 |
| Item Code | 06088 |
| Weight | 2.8 lbs (1.3 kg) |
| Overall Length | 14-1/2" |
| Head Material | Brass (soft face) |
| Feature | Shock absorbing |
| Approval | Approved for use at AWWA Tapping Contest |
| Recommended Use | With Reed Hammer Flaring Tools on Type K soft copper tubing |
Reed HAM3 vs Mueller H-18025
Comparing the Reed HAM3 vs Mueller H-18025 comes down to weight and handle length. Both are brass flaring hammer options approved for AWWA competition and field use.
| Spec | Reed HAM3 | Mueller H-18025 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 2.8 lbs (1.3 kg) | 2-3/4 lbs |
| Head Material | Brass (soft face) | Solid brass |
| Overall Length | 14-1/2" | Not published |
| AWWA Tapping Contest | Approved | Approved |
Both serve as a brass hammer for copper tubing tapping and flaring. Cleanflow carries the Reed HAM3 brass hammer alongside other Reed water service tools.
Buy Reed HAM3 Brass Hammer Online from Cleanflow
Cleanflow Utility Supply Company is an authorized Reed distributor. Order the Reed HAM3 brass hammer alongside Reed water service tools and flaring accessories from Cleanflow. Crews across Canada and the USA get free shipping on orders over $199. Returns accepted within 30 days. Email info@cleanflow.ca for returns or exchanges.
Browse the full catalog of Reed tools from Cleanflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hammer to use with copper flaring tools?
Reed recommends striking flare dies only with a soft-faced hammer for flaring, not a steel hammer. A steel head bounces and can damage both the die and the tube. The Reed HAM3 is the manufacturer's recommended brass flaring hammer for all HF-series flaring tools on Type K copper.
Is the Reed HAM3 AWWA approved?
The Reed HAM3 is approved for use at the AWWA Tapping Contest per Reed's product documentation. This means the AWWA pipe tapping competition rules list it as approved equipment, not a general AWWA product certification. The Mueller H-18025 is also an approved AWWA tapping contest hammer.
Why use a brass hammer for copper flaring?
Brass absorbs striking shock instead of transferring full impact into the flaring tool and the copper tube. A steel hammer rebounds and can crack the die or deform the tube beyond the flare zone. A brass flaring hammer protects both the tool and the workpiece during copper water service work.
What is the best hammer for copper tubing work?
For flaring and rerounding Type K soft copper, Reed recommends a shock-absorbing brass hammer. The Reed HAM3 at 2.8 lbs pairs with all Reed HF-series flaring tools and Reed rerounding tools. It is approved for AWWA tapping competition use and available from Cleanflow.
How does the Reed HAM3 compare to the Mueller H-18025?
Both hammers are approved for the AWWA pipe tapping contest. The Reed HAM3 weighs 2.8 lbs. The Mueller H-18025 weighs 2-3/4 lbs with a 10-inch wooden handle. Both have solid brass heads. Cleanflow carries the Reed HAM3 brass hammer as part of its Reed water service tools lineup.
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