Copper
Copper is prized for its outstanding thermal and electrical conductivity — the highest of any common engineering metal. It’s the material of choice for electrical busbars, heat exchangers, heat sinks, and conductors where performance is paramount. Pure copper (C110/C101) is relatively soft and ductile, making it easy to form but more challenging to machine cleanly. It laser cuts with a fibre laser but requires careful parameter control due to its high reflectivity and thermal conductivity.
Key Properties
| Density | 8.96 g/cm³ |
| Tensile Strength | 210–360 MPa (depending on temper) |
| Yield Strength | 70–330 MPa (depending on temper) |
| Thermal Conductivity | 401 W/m·K (highest of common metals) |
| Electrical Conductivity | 100% IACS (reference standard) |
| Melting Point | 1,085°C |
| Magnetic | No |
Grades
| Property | C110 (ETP — Electrolytic Tough Pitch) | C101 (Oxygen-Free) |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 220 MPa (annealed) | 220 MPa (annealed) |
| Conductivity | 101% IACS | 101% IACS |
| Weldability | Fair (brazing preferred) | Good |
| Machinability | Poor | Poor |
| Typical Use | Electrical/thermal | High-purity/vacuum |
C110 (ETP — Electrolytic Tough Pitch)
99.9% pure copper. THE standard electrical copper used worldwide for busbars, connectors, motor windings, and heat exchangers. Most commonly available commercial grade.
C101 (Oxygen-Free)
99.99% pure copper with no residual oxygen. Used when hydrogen embrittlement is a concern, such as vacuum applications, semiconductor equipment, and high-purity electrical connections.
Available Thicknesses
Sheet: 0.5mm, 0.8mm, 1.0mm, 1.2mm, 1.6mm, 2.0mm, 3.0mm. Bar and plate available for machining in various sizes.
Fabrication Notes
Surface Finishes
Natural (develops a brown patina over time, eventually green/verdigris outdoors), tin plating, nickel plating, clear lacquer (to maintain bright appearance), patina accelerators for decorative work.
When to Choose Copper
Choose copper when electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, or both are the primary requirements. Busbars, heat sinks, heat exchangers, electrical connectors, and induction heating components. Also used decoratively for architectural features, signs, and art.
Limitations
Expensive (significantly more than steel or aluminium). Difficult to machine in pure form. High reflectivity makes laser cutting challenging. Very heavy (8.96 g/cm³). Tarnishes and patinas over time without protective coating. Not suitable for structural applications due to relatively low strength.
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