Copper

Types and Families of Copper for Industrial Use

Copper is a versatile metal that comes in various forms and families, each suited to specific industrial applications. These families of copper include pure copper and a range of copper alloys that combine copper with elements like zinc, tin, nickel, and beryllium. Each family has unique properties, making it ideal for specific applications, from electrical systems to marine hardware.

Pure Copper

Pure copper, known for its high electrical and thermal conductivity, is a primary choice in applications requiring efficient energy transfer and heat conduction.

Properties	Description
High Conductivity	Superior ability to conduct electricity and heat.
Corrosion Resistance	Naturally resists oxidation and tarnishing.
Antimicrobial	Reduces the growth of bacteria and viruses on surfaces.

Applications:

• Electrical Wiring and Components: Used extensively in power transmission, transformers, and wiring.
• Plumbing and HVAC: Due to its resistance to corrosion, it’s widely used in pipes and cooling systems.
• Medical and Public Surfaces: Its antimicrobial properties make it suitable for high-touch surfaces.

Copper Alloys

Copper alloys enhance copper’s natural properties by combining it with other elements. These alloys are specifically engineered to add strength, corrosion resistance, or durability, making them suitable for a wide range of industrial uses.

Alloy Family	Composition	Properties	Applications
Brass	Copper + Zinc	Strong, corrosion-resistant, antimicrobial, decorative	Plumbing, gears, musical instruments, decorative elements
Bronze	Copper + Tin (sometimes Al, P)	Hard, corrosion-resistant, wear-resistant	Bearings, marine hardware, sculptures, bushings
Cupronickel	Copper + Nickel (with Mn)	Excellent resistance to seawater corrosion	Shipbuilding, coinage, desalination plants
Beryllium Copper	Copper + Beryllium, sometimes Cobalt	High strength, non-sparking, durable, wear-resistant	Precision tools, aerospace, oil and gas industries

Brass

Brass is a copper-zinc alloy known for its yellow-gold appearance, durability, and corrosion resistance. The material’s ability to withstand saltwater corrosion and its antimicrobial properties make it ideal for marine applications and frequently-touched surfaces.

Applications:

• Plumbing and Fixtures: Brass fittings and fixtures are common in plumbing due to their durability.
• Musical Instruments and Decorative Elements: Its malleability and aesthetic make brass ideal for finely detailed work.

Bronze

Bronze, primarily a copper-tin alloy, often includes other elements like aluminum or phosphorus to enhance strength and hardness. Its resistance to wear and corrosion makes it highly valuable in demanding applications.

Applications:

• Industrial Bushings and Bearings: Commonly used for low-friction, wear-resistant components.
• Marine Hardware: Widely used for ship and boat components that are exposed to seawater.

Cupronickel

Cupronickel is a copper-nickel alloy that provides exceptional resistance to corrosion, especially in seawater, making it suitable for extreme environments.

Applications:

• Marine Applications: Used extensively in shipbuilding, piping, and desalination plants.
• Currency: Often found in coinage due to its resistance to wear and tarnish.

Beryllium Copper

Beryllium copper combines the strength of beryllium with the conductivity of copper, resulting in a non-sparking, durable material that’s ideal for precision components in hazardous environments.

Applications:

• Precision Tools: Non-sparking tools for use in oil, gas, and mining sectors.
• Industrial Components: Springs, electrical connectors, and aerospace parts requiring high strength and durability.

Copper Grades and International Equivalents Chart

Copper is available in various grades, each meeting specific industry standards that ensure compatibility across global applications. This comprehensive chart provides an overview of copper grades with their international equivalents, enabling easy reference for manufacturers and suppliers worldwide.

Grade	ASTM Standard	EN Standard	JIS Standard	Description
C11000	ASTM B152	CW004A	C1100	Electrolytic Tough Pitch Copper – High electrical conductivity, commonly used in electrical applications.
C12200	ASTM B88	CW024A	C1220	Phosphorus-Deoxidized Copper – Excellent weldability, used in plumbing and heat exchanger applications.
C10100	ASTM B170	CW009A	C1011	Oxygen-Free Copper – High purity, used for applications needing high conductivity and minimal oxidation.
C18150	ASTM B441	CW106C	–	Chromium Zirconium Copper – High strength and good conductivity, used in welding electrodes and resistance welding.
C70600	ASTM B466	CW352H	C7060	90/10 Copper-Nickel – Corrosion-resistant, widely used in marine environments and desalination.
C71500	ASTM B466	CW354H	C7150	70/30 Copper-Nickel – Higher corrosion resistance, used in marine, shipbuilding, and offshore applications.
C17200	ASTM B194	CW101C	C1720	Beryllium Copper – High strength and non-sparking, ideal for tools in hazardous environments.
C28000	ASTM B36	CW509L	C2800	Muntz Metal (Brass) – Good corrosion resistance, used in fittings and heat exchangers.
C36000	ASTM B16	CW603N	C3604	Free-Cutting Brass – Known for machinability, used in precision machining and fittings.
C83800	ASTM B584	CB491K	–	Leaded Red Brass – High corrosion resistance, used in water applications and valve bodies.
C84400	ASTM B584	CB491K	–	Cast Red Brass – Good machinability and pressure-tight, used in fittings and pumps.

Understanding Copper Grades and Their Applications

Each copper grade offers distinct properties that cater to specific applications. Electrolytic Tough Pitch (C11000) is preferred for electrical wiring due to its high conductivity, while copper-nickel alloys like C70600 and C71500 are essential in marine environments for their corrosion resistance. Beryllium copper (C17200) is commonly used in hazardous environments for its non-sparking quality, making it ideal for tools.

Complete EN Copper Grades and Specifications Chart

European Norm (EN) standards for copper grades offer a structured classification system widely recognized in industries across Europe and globally. This chart provides a detailed overview of various EN copper grades, including their compositions and typical applications, helping manufacturers and suppliers select the appropriate grade for their industrial needs.

EN Grade	Designation	Common Name	Key Properties	Applications
CW004A	Cu-ETP	Electrolytic Tough Pitch Copper	High electrical conductivity	Electrical wiring, conductors, power transmission lines
CW006A	Cu-FRTP	Fire-Refined Tough Pitch Copper	Good conductivity, economical	Electrical busbars, conductors, switchgear
CW008A	Cu-OF	Oxygen-Free Copper	High purity, excellent conductivity	Electronics, high-quality audio cables, vacuum seals
CW024A	Cu-DHP	Phosphorus-Deoxidized Copper	Weldability, corrosion resistance	Plumbing, HVAC systems, heat exchangers
CW009A	Cu-OF1	High-Quality Oxygen-Free Copper	High thermal and electrical conductivity	Vacuum systems, RF connectors, high-end electronics
CW021A	Cu-HCP	High Conductivity Phosphorus-Deoxidized Copper	Excellent conductivity, corrosion resistance	Transformer winding, motor components, switchgear
CW352H	CuNi10Fe1Mn	90/10 Copper-Nickel	Corrosion resistance, good weldability	Marine applications, offshore oil platforms, shipbuilding
CW354H	CuNi30Mn1Fe	70/30 Copper-Nickel	Superior corrosion resistance	Marine and desalination equipment, power generation
CW101C	CuBe2	Beryllium Copper	High strength, non-sparking, wear-resistant	Oil and gas tools, aerospace, electronics
CW702R	CuZn20Al2As	Aluminum Brass	Corrosion-resistant, durable	Heat exchangers, condensers, marine hardware
CW603N	CuZn36Pb3	Free-Cutting Brass	Excellent machinability	Precision components, fittings, valve stems
CW614N	CuZn39Pb3	High-Lead Brass	Good machinability, corrosion resistance	Valve bodies, plumbing fittings, machine parts
CW712R	CuNi30Mn1Fe	Monel Alloy 400	Excellent corrosion resistance in saltwater	Marine, chemical processing, heat exchangers

Understanding EN Copper Grades and Their Applications

Each EN copper grade is tailored to meet specific industry requirements. For example, CW004A (Cu-ETP) is commonly used in electrical applications due to its excellent conductivity, while CW354H (CuNi30Mn1Fe) is preferred in marine environments for its high corrosion resistance. Beryllium Copper (CW101C) provides exceptional strength and wear resistance, making it ideal for oil, gas, and aerospace applications.

Comprehensive ASTM Copper Grades Chart

ASTM standards for copper grades are widely recognized internationally, providing consistent quality and specifications for various industrial applications. This chart offers a detailed overview of ASTM copper grades, along with their key properties and common uses, helping manufacturers select the appropriate copper grade for their needs.

ASTM Grade	Designation	Common Name	Key Properties	Applications
C10100	Cu-OF	Oxygen-Free Copper	High purity, superior conductivity	Electronics, high-quality audio cables, vacuum tubes
C10200	Cu-OF	Oxygen-Free, High Conductivity Copper	Excellent thermal and electrical conductivity	Semiconductor components, anodes, RF connectors
C11000	ETP	Electrolytic Tough Pitch Copper	High conductivity, ductility	Electrical wiring, busbars, transformers
C12200	DHP	Phosphorus-Deoxidized Copper	Good corrosion resistance, weldability	Plumbing, HVAC, heat exchangers
C14500	Tellurium Copper	Free-machining, moderate conductivity	Good machinability, corrosion resistance	Electrical connectors, screw machine products
C16200	Cadmium Copper	High strength, corrosion-resistant	High strength under high temperatures	Automotive wiring, aerospace applications
C17200	Beryllium Copper	High strength, non-sparking	High wear resistance, fatigue strength	Oil and gas tools, aerospace components, springs
C18200	Chromium Copper	High conductivity, wear resistance	Enhanced strength with heat treatment	Welding electrodes, switchgear
C70600	90/10 Copper-Nickel	Copper-Nickel Alloy	Excellent corrosion resistance in seawater	Marine hardware, shipbuilding, offshore oil platforms
C71500	70/30 Copper-Nickel	Copper-Nickel Alloy	Higher corrosion resistance than C70600	Desalination plants, power generation, marine applications
C36000	Free-Cutting Brass	Brass Alloy	High machinability, moderate strength	Precision components, valves, fittings
C84400	Leaded Red Brass	Brass Alloy	Excellent castability, corrosion-resistant	Plumbing fixtures, pump casings, water systems

Understanding ASTM Copper Grades and Their Applications

Each ASTM copper grade is designed to meet specific industrial requirements. For instance, C11000 (ETP) is widely used in electrical applications for its high conductivity, while C17200 (Beryllium Copper) is ideal for high-strength, non-sparking applications in hazardous environments. C70600 and C71500 are preferred in marine settings for their corrosion resistance.

Copper Grades Hardness Comparison

Hardness is a critical property in determining a copper grade’s suitability for various industrial applications. This chart provides hardness values for common copper grades using scales such as Rockwell, Brinell, and Vickers, helping manufacturers and engineers select the appropriate grade based on strength and wear resistance needs.

Copper Grade	Rockwell Hardness (HR)	Brinell Hardness (HB)	Vickers Hardness (HV)	Key Applications
C10100	HRF 40 – 50	40 – 55	40 – 50	High-conductivity wiring, electronics, semiconductors
C11000	HRF 45 – 55	55 – 65	45 – 55	Electrical wiring, power transmission, transformers
C12200	HRF 45 – 60	60 – 70	50 – 60	Plumbing, HVAC, heat exchangers
C14500	HRB 55 – 68	65 – 80	60 – 70	Machinable parts, electrical connectors, screw machines
C17200	HRC 38 – 44	200 – 240	180 – 220	Oil and gas tools, springs, aerospace applications
C18200	HRC 25 – 35	115 – 135	110 – 130	Welding electrodes, heavy-duty electrical equipment
C70600	HRB 45 – 65	65 – 80	60 – 75	Marine components, desalination systems, seawater piping
C71500	HRB 55 – 70	75 – 85	70 – 80	Shipbuilding, heat exchangers, marine hardware
C36000	HRB 60 – 80	90 – 100	80 – 90	Precision machining, valves, fittings
C84400	HRB 40 – 60	50 – 70	45 – 65	Plumbing fixtures, pump casings, water systems

Interpreting Hardness Values for Copper Grades

The hardness values indicate a copper grade’s resistance to wear and deformation. C10100 and C11000 have lower hardness values, making them suitable for applications prioritizing conductivity over strength. C17200 (Beryllium Copper) is significantly harder, making it ideal for high-stress applications in oil, gas, and aerospace, where durability and resistance to wear are essential.

Copper Grades Chemical Composition Chart

The chemical composition of copper grades is vital in determining their properties, including conductivity, strength, and corrosion resistance. This table outlines the key elements in each copper grade, with approximate percentages, helping you select the right material for your specific application needs.

Copper Grade	Copper (Cu) %	Nickel (Ni) %	Chromium (Cr) %	Zinc (Zn) %	Tin (Sn) %	Beryllium (Be) %	Other Elements	Key Applications
C10100	≥99.99	–	–	–	–	–	Oxygen-free	High conductivity wiring, electronics
C11000	≥99.90	–	–	–	–	–	Trace impurities	Electrical wiring, transformers, busbars
C12200	≥99.90	–	–	–	–	–	0.015-0.040 Phosphorus	Plumbing, HVAC, heat exchangers
C14500	≥99.90	–	–	–	–	–	0.40–0.70 Tellurium	Electrical connectors, machinable parts
C17200	97.0 – 98.0	–	–	–	–	1.80 – 2.0	Trace cobalt	Oil and gas tools, aerospace, non-sparking tools
C18200	≥99.1	–	0.60 – 1.20	–	–	–	Trace elements	Welding electrodes, industrial equipment
C70600	88.0 – 90.0	9.0 – 11.0	–	–	–	–	Trace iron	Marine hardware, shipbuilding, desalination systems
C71500	66.0 – 70.0	29.0 – 33.0	–	–	–	–	Trace iron	Heat exchangers, marine applications, power generation
C36000	60.0 – 63.0	–	–	35.5 – 37.5	–	–	Trace lead	Precision machining, valves, fittings
C84400	80.0 – 85.0	–	–	4.0 – 6.0	2.0 – 4.0	–	Trace lead	Plumbing fixtures, pump casings, water systems

Understanding Copper Grades and Their Compositions

The chemical composition of each copper grade is tailored to optimize certain properties:

• C10100 and C11000 contain nearly pure copper, maximizing conductivity for electrical uses.
• C17200 (Beryllium Copper) combines strength with non-sparking properties, making it ideal for hazardous environments.
• C70600 and C71500 are copper-nickel alloys valued for their corrosion resistance, especially in marine applications.

Copper Grades Mechanical Properties

Understanding the mechanical properties of copper grades is essential in selecting the appropriate material for industrial applications. Properties such as tensile strength, yield strength, and elongation determine each grade’s suitability for various structural, electrical, and industrial uses.

Copper Grade	Tensile Strength (MPa)	Yield Strength (MPa)	Elongation (%)	Key Applications
C10100	210 – 250	70 – 100	35 – 45	High conductivity wiring, electronics, semiconductor components
C11000	210 – 240	69 – 100	30 – 40	Electrical wiring, transformers, busbars
C12200	205 – 240	65 – 95	30 – 40	Plumbing, HVAC systems, heat exchangers
C14500	275 – 345	90 – 125	12 – 18	Machinable parts, electrical connectors, fittings
C17200	1100 – 1400	1030 – 1150	10 – 20	Oil and gas tools, aerospace applications, springs
C18200	415 – 480	275 – 345	10 – 15	Welding electrodes, heavy-duty electrical equipment
C70600	350 – 420	125 – 175	30 – 40	Marine hardware, desalination systems, seawater piping
C71500	420 – 480	140 – 190	30 – 40	Shipbuilding, marine components, heat exchangers
C36000	345 – 415	110 – 150	10 – 15	Precision machining, valves, fittings
C84400	150 – 200	40 – 80	20 – 30	Plumbing fixtures, pump casings, water systems

Interpreting Mechanical Properties of Copper Grades

The mechanical properties highlight each grade’s capabilities:

• C10100 and C11000 have moderate tensile strength and high elongation, making them ideal for applications where flexibility is important.
• C17200 (Beryllium Copper) exhibits extremely high tensile and yield strength, making it suitable for applications requiring durability and resilience under stress.
• C70600 and C71500 offer good strength with high elongation, ensuring corrosion resistance and structural stability in marine settings.

Thermal Properties of Copper by Grade

Copper’s thermal properties are essential for applications in high-heat environments, where efficient heat transfer and stability are required. The table below outlines thermal conductivity, the coefficient of thermal expansion, and other key thermal properties for various copper grades, helping you choose the appropriate grade for your application.

Copper Grade	Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K)	Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (µm/m·°C)	Melting Point (°C)	Key Applications
C10100	390 – 400	16.5	1083	High-conductivity wiring, electronics, thermal conductors
C11000	390 – 400	16.5	1083	Electrical wiring, transformers, heat exchangers
C12200	340 – 360	16.5	1083	Plumbing, HVAC, industrial piping
C14500	340 – 350	17.6	1083	Machinable electrical components, heat sinks
C17200	105 – 125	17.0	870	Oil and gas tools, aerospace components, high-heat applications
C18200	330 – 350	16.7	1083	Welding electrodes, high-temperature switchgear
C70600	40 – 50	16.0	1171	Marine hardware, desalination systems, high-corrosion environments
C71500	30 – 35	16.0	1171	Shipbuilding, heat exchangers, seawater piping
C36000	120 – 130	20.5	930	Precision components, fittings, heat-tolerant parts
C84400	60 – 70	18.0	995	Plumbing fixtures, pump casings, water systems

Understanding Thermal Properties of Copper Grades

Copper’s high thermal conductivity makes it the preferred material for heat transfer applications:

• C10100 and C11000 offer excellent thermal conductivity, ideal for electrical and heat exchange systems.
• C17200 (Beryllium Copper) has lower thermal conductivity, making it suitable for high-stress applications where durability is more critical than heat transfer.
• Copper-Nickel Alloys (C70600 and C71500) exhibit lower thermal conductivity, with high corrosion resistance, making them suitable for marine applications.

Applications of Copper Grades Across Industries

Copper’s versatility and unique properties make it valuable across numerous industries, with specific grades suited for specialized applications. This section provides a detailed overview of how different copper grades are used, highlighting their advantages in various industrial sectors, from electrical and electronics to marine and aerospace.

Copper Grade	Industry	Applications	Properties Benefiting Application
C10100	Electronics	High-end audio cables, semiconductors, printed circuit boards (PCBs)	High purity, excellent electrical and thermal conductivity
C11000	Electrical	Wiring, transformers, busbars, power transmission lines	High conductivity, ductility
C12200	HVAC & Plumbing	Pipes for water supply, industrial cooling systems, heat exchangers	Good corrosion resistance, ease of joining and welding
C14500	Machinery	Electrical connectors, fittings, precision-machined parts	Good machinability, moderate conductivity
C17200	Aerospace & Oil	Springs, non-sparking tools, high-stress industrial components	High strength, wear resistance, non-sparking
C18200	Industrial	Welding electrodes, switchgear, heavy-duty electrical contacts	High wear resistance, thermal stability
C70600	Marine	Shipbuilding, seawater cooling systems, desalination plants	Excellent corrosion resistance in saline environments
C71500	Marine & Power	Marine heat exchangers, power generation units, condenser tubing	Superior corrosion resistance, high durability
C36000	Automotive	Valve stems, precision components, fittings	High machinability, corrosion resistance
C84400	Plumbing	Pump casings, plumbing fixtures, water systems	Good casting properties, corrosion resistance

Applications of Key Copper Grades by Industry

• Electronics and Electrical: C10100 and C11000 are essential for applications that require superior conductivity. C11000 is widely used in power transmission and wiring due to its conductivity and workability, while C10100 is preferred for high-end electronic applications.
• HVAC & Plumbing: C12200 is commonly used in water supply pipes and industrial cooling systems for its ability to resist corrosion and ease of welding, ensuring long-lasting performance in plumbing and HVAC systems.
• Aerospace and Oil & Gas: C17200 (Beryllium Copper) is highly valued for its non-sparking and high-strength properties, making it ideal for critical components in hazardous environments and high-stress applications.
• Marine Applications: C70600 and C71500 (Copper-Nickel Alloys) offer excellent corrosion resistance in seawater, making them indispensable in marine construction, shipbuilding, and desalination plants.
• Machinery and Industrial Applications: C14500 and C18200 are ideal for machined parts and welding electrodes, respectively, due to their machinability and wear resistance, essential in demanding industrial applications.