Español

Copper C102 (Oxygen-Free Copper)

Copper C102 (Oxygen-Free Copper) is a high-conductivity copper alloy ideal for CNC machining applications that require efficient electrical performance, superior thermal conductivity, and long-lasting durability.

Introduction to Copper C102 (Oxygen-Free Copper)

Copper C102, called Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC), is a high-purity copper alloy with a minimum copper content of 99.99%. Unlike standard copper alloys, Copper C102 is produced through an oxygen-free process, eliminating residual oxygen and significantly improving its electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance. The result is an alloy that offers superior performance, particularly in high-precision applications with critical conductivity and reliability.

Copper C102 (Oxygen-Free Copper) is used in applications that require exceptional electrical and thermal conductivity, such as electrical power cables, connectors, and electronic components. It is especially favored in telecommunications, aerospace, and automotive industries, where high-performance materials are essential for efficiency and durability. Due to its excellent characteristics, Copper C102 is often selected for CNC Machining Service and used in producing CNC Machined Copper Parts in various applications.

Chemical, Physical, and Mechanical Properties of Copper C102 (Oxygen-Free Copper)

Chemical Composition (Typical)

Element

Composition Range (wt.%)

Key Role

Copper (Cu)

≥99.99

Forms the base material providing excellent conductivity

Oxygen (O)

≤0.001

Removed during the oxygen-free process for improved conductivity and reduced oxidation

Other Elements

≤0.05

Residual elements with minimal impact on properties

Physical Properties

Property

Value (Typical)

Test Standard/Condition

Density

8.96 g/cm³

ASTM B311

Melting Point

1083°C

ASTM E29

Thermal Conductivity

398 W/m·K at 20°C

ASTM E1952

Electrical Conductivity

101% IACS at 20°C

ASTM B193

Coefficient of Expansion

16.5 µm/m·°C

ASTM E228

Specific Heat Capacity

385 J/kg·K

ASTM E1269

Elastic Modulus

110 GPa

ASTM E111

Mechanical Properties (Annealed Temper)

Property

Value (Typical)

Test Standard

Tensile Strength

210–290 MPa

ASTM E8/E8M – full-section test specimens

Yield Strength (0.2%)

160–220 MPa

ASTM E8/E8M – offset method

Elongation

35–50%

ASTM E8/E8M – gauge length = 50 mm

Hardness

40–80 HB

ASTM E10 – Brinell hardness, 10 mm ball/500 kg load

Fatigue Strength

~180 MPa

ASTM E466 – rotating bending fatigue at 10⁷ cycles

Impact Resistance

Good

ASTM E23 – Notched, room temperature

Note: These values are typical for annealed Copper C102 (Oxygen-Free Copper) and can vary based on specific processing conditions.

Key Characteristics of Copper C102 (Oxygen-Free Copper)

Exceptional Electrical Conductivity (101% IACS)

Copper C102 (Oxygen-Free Copper) is one of the best conductors of electricity, offering 101% IACS electrical conductivity. This makes it ideal for electrical wiring, connectors, and other components requiring high efficiency and minimal energy loss.

High Thermal Conductivity (398 W/m·K)

With excellent thermal conductivity, Copper C102 effectively transfers heat, making it suitable for heat exchangers, cooling systems, and components that need to dissipate heat quickly to prevent overheating.

Corrosion Resistance

Copper C102 (Oxygen-Free Copper) exhibits excellent corrosion resistance, especially in environments with moisture or harsh chemicals. The absence of oxygen in the material minimizes oxidation and enhances its durability, extending the life of components exposed to external elements.

Workability and Ductility

Copper C102 is highly malleable and can be easily drawn, stamped, or shaped into various forms without compromising its integrity. This makes it ideal for CNC machining and applications requiring precise, intricate parts.

Non-Magnetic and Stable at High Temperatures

Copper C102 is non-magnetic, which is essential in electrical and electronic applications where magnetic interference must be minimized. It also remains stable at elevated temperatures, ensuring long-term reliability in high-heat environments.

CNC Machining Challenges and Solutions for Copper C102 (Oxygen-Free Copper)

Machining Challenges

Work Hardening

Although Copper C102 is relatively soft compared to other metals, it can still work-harden during machining, particularly when excessive deformation is applied.

  • Solution: Use sharp tools and avoid excessive cutting forces. Lower cutting speeds and apply coolant to reduce heat buildup and prevent work hardening.

Chip Formation

Copper C102 tends to produce long chips during machining, which can cause chip removal issues and interfere with the machining process.

  • Solution: Use chip breakers and tools with positive rake angles to help break the chips into smaller, more manageable pieces. Additionally, use a steady coolant or air blast flow to facilitate chip removal.

Tool Wear

Copper C102’s excellent conductivity and soft nature can cause tool wear over time, especially when machining at high speeds.

  • Solution: Use carbide or high-speed steel tools with appropriate coatings (e.g., TiAlN) to minimize wear and extend tool life. Additionally, slower cutting speeds and optimized feed rates can reduce unnecessary tool degradation.

Optimized Machining Strategies

Tool Selection

Parameter

Recommendation

Rationale

Tool Material

Carbide tools with TiAlN coating

Increases tool lifespan and reduces wear in tough materials

Geometry

Positive rake, sharp edges

Enhances chip flow and reduces material buildup

Cutting Speed

250–350 m/min

Prevents excessive heating and enhances tool longevity

Feed Rate

0.10–0.20 mm/rev

Ensures smooth cutting and prevents material deformation

Coolant

Flood coolant or air blast

Reduces heat buildup and aids in chip removal

Copper C102 Cutting Parameters (ISO 513 Compliance)

Operation

Speed (m/min)

Feed (mm/rev)

Depth of Cut (mm)

Coolant Pressure (bar)

Roughing

200–300

0.15–0.25

2.0–4.0

25–40 (Flood coolant)

Finishing

300–350

0.05–0.10

0.5–1.0

30–50 (Flood coolant)

Typical Machining Services for Copper C102 (Oxygen-Free Copper)

Copper C102 (Oxygen-Free Copper) is ideal for a variety of CNC machining processes, particularly for parts that require high precision, conductivity, and durability. Below are the typical machining services:

Machining Process

Suitability for Copper C102 (Oxygen-Free Copper)

CNC Machining

Ideal for producing electrical connectors, busbars, and intricate parts with high conductivity requirements

CNC Milling

Suitable for machining flat surfaces, pockets, and complex shapes that require fine detail

CNC Turning

Excellent for producing cylindrical parts such as rods, tubes, and connectors

CNC Drilling

Ideal for creating precise holes with minimal burr formation

CNC Boring

Perfect for enlarging holes with tight tolerances and a smooth surface finish

CNC Grinding

Achieves superior surface finishes on parts with high dimensional precision

Multi-Axis Machining

Enables complex, multi-feature parts to be machined in a single setup, ensuring higher accuracy

Precision Machining

Provides extremely tight tolerances for critical components used in high-performance systems

EDM Machining

Ideal for intricate parts with fine details that would be difficult to machine with traditional methods

Surface Treatment for Copper C102 CNC Parts

  • Electroplating: Enhances wear resistance and corrosion protection by applying a thin coating of metals such as nickel, silver, or gold.

  • Polishing: Achieves a smooth, reflective finish that enhances the appearance and functionality of electrical components.

  • Brushing: Produces a matte finish that reduces surface glare while maintaining a high-quality finish for visible components.

  • PVD Coating: Offers superior wear and corrosion resistance, along with an attractive color finish for aesthetic parts.

  • Passivation: Enhances corrosion resistance by removing impurities from the surface.

  • Powder Coating: Provides durable protection from wear and environmental factors for parts exposed to harsh conditions.

  • Teflon Coating: Ideal for parts requiring chemical resistance and low friction surfaces.

  • Chrome Plating: Adds durability, enhances wear resistance, and provides a shiny, corrosion-resistant finish.

Industry Applications of Copper C102 (Oxygen-Free Copper)

  • Electrical & Power Distribution: Copper C102 (Oxygen-Free Copper) is used for connectors, electrical contacts, and high-performance busbars where both strength and electrical conductivity are crucial.

  • Aerospace & Defense: Ideal for high-stress components like connectors, landing gear, and actuators in aerospace applications.

  • Automotive: Used for high-performance electrical connectors, terminals, and other components in electric and hybrid vehicles.

  • Consumer Electronics: Precision components such as heat sinks, connectors, and springs for consumer electronics requiring high conductivity and reliability.

FAQs

  • What are the advantages of using Copper C102 (Oxygen-Free Copper) in high-performance electrical applications?

  • How does Copper C102 compare to other copper alloys regarding thermal conductivity?

  • Can Copper C102 (Oxygen-Free Copper) be used in harsh environments?

  • What is the impact of Copper C102's high purity on its performance in electronics?

  • How does Copper C102 (Oxygen-Free Copper) perform in mechanical stress environments?

Explorar blogs relacionados

Copyright © 2025 Machining Precision Works Ltd.All Rights Reserved.