CW008A copper, commonly referred to as C101 or C10100 in some international standards, is a high-purity form of copper, often regarded as the most commercially pure type available. Known for its excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, CW008A copper finds extensive use in electrical applications, including busbars, transformers, and cables.
Properties Of CW008A Copper
The chemical composition of oxygen-free copper is very pure, with a very high copper content and very low impurity elements such as lead, iron, tin, zinc, nickel, antimony, phosphorus, bismuth, arsenic and sulfur. This precise chemical composition gives oxygen-free copper excellent physical and chemical properties. In Cu-OF (CW008A) oxygen-free copper, the copper content is not less than 99.95%, while the content of other impurity elements is controlled within an extremely low range. This high-purity copper material provides excellent performance guarantee for oxygen-free copper.
Physical Properties
CW008A copper is characterized by its reddish-brown color, which is typical of pure copper. It possesses a face-centered cubic crystal structure, which is responsible for its high ductility and malleability. The density of CW008A copper is approximately 8.96 g/cm³.
Chemical Composition
CW008A copper is defined by its high purity, typically containing a minimum of 99.99% copper. The impurity levels are kept extremely low, with oxygen being the most significant impurity, usually controlled to levels below 0.001%.
| Element | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|
| Copper | 99.99 |
| Oxygen | <0.001 |
| Others | <0.01 |
Mechanical Properties
The mechanical properties of CW008A copper are as follows:
- Tensile Strength: Approximately 210 MPa
- Yield Strength: Around 33 MPa
- Elongation: Typically about 50% in 50 mm
- Hardness: Ranges from 35-65 HV
These properties can vary depending on the form and treatment of the copper.
Thermal Properties
CW008A copper is renowned for its excellent thermal conductivity, which is one of the highest among engineering metals. It has a thermal conductivity of around 385 W/m·K at 20°C. The specific heat capacity is approximately 0.385 J/g·K.
Electrical Properties
One of the most significant attributes of CW008A copper is its outstanding electrical conductivity, often taken as the benchmark for electrical materials. It has an electrical conductivity of approximately 58 MS/m (100% IACS – International Annealed Copper Standard).
Production and Processing
The manufacturing process of Cu-OF (CW008A) oxygen-free copper mainly includes raw material preparation, smelting, casting, rolling, drawing and other processes. Among them, the smelting process has a crucial impact on the purity and performance of the final product.
The conductivity of oxygen-free copper is much higher than that of ordinary copper materials, which can effectively reduce energy loss during current transmission and improve energy efficiency.
At the same time, its good thermal conductivity allows it to maintain stable performance in high temperature environments. Oxygen-free copper has good ductility and excellent processing performance, and can easily cope with various complex processing requirements. In terms of corrosion resistance and cold resistance, Cu-OF (CW008A) oxygen-free copper also performs well and can adapt to the use requirements of various harsh environments.
In modern production, advanced production equipment and technology are used to ensure stable and reliable product quality.
- Extraction : The primary source of copper is copper ores, mainly chalcopyrite, which undergoes several stages of extraction and purification. The ore is first crushed and ground, followed by concentration through froth flotation. The concentrated ore is then subjected to smelting to produce impure copper, known as blister copper.
- Refining : Blister copper undergoes further purification via electrorefining. In this process, the impure copper is cast into anodes and placed in an electrolytic cell. The anodes are dissolved in an electrolyte solution, depositing pure copper onto cathodes. The resulting high-purity copper is then processed into CW008A grade.
- Forming and Shaping : The purified copper is cast into various forms, including ingots, billets, and wire bars. These primary forms are then processed into finished products through rolling, extrusion, metal spinning and drawing. CW008A copper can be manufactured into sheets, wires, rods, and other forms suitable for industrial use.
Applications Of CW008A Copper
In terms of usage, Cu-OF (CW008A) oxygen-free copper has a wide range of applications in electronics, electrical, communications and other fields due to its excellent electrical conductivity and processing properties. For example, in the electronics industry, oxygen-free copper can be used to manufacture various connectors, wires and cables, electronic components, etc.; in the electrical industry, it is used to manufacture transformers, motors, switches, etc.; in the communications field, oxygen-free copper can be used to manufacture high-frequency cables, antennas, etc.
In addition, CWO08A oxygen-free copper also has good corrosion resistance, weldability and forming properties, further expanding its application range in various fields. For example, in the construction industry, oxygen-free copper can be used to manufacture various metal decorations, pipes, etc.; in the automotive manufacturing industry, it can be used to manufacture engines, radiators and other parts.
BE-CU is a professional oxygen-free copper parts rapid prototyping factory. The following are oxygen-free copper parts and related copper parts we have made.
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CNC Spinning For Copper 110 Student Trumpet
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Etched VC Uniform Temperature Cooling Plate
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Etching LED EMC Packaging Bracket
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Etching Low Resistivity Copper 110 Contact Rings
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FFF Fused Wire Extrusion 3D Printed Pure Copper Parts
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Hollow Laser Cut And Carved Copper Bookmark
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Tin Bronze Cast Valve Body And Bonnet
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CNC Turning-Milling Machining Copper Facial Massage Roller
With the rapid development of industries such as electronics, automobiles, and aerospace, the demand for Cu-OF (CW008A) oxygen-free copper will continue to grow. In the future, more new application areas are expected to emerge, and the requirements for product quality and performance will continue to increase. As a high-performance copper alloy, Cu-OF (CW008A) oxygen-free copper has broad application prospects and development potential, and will play an important role in the future market.
Electrical Industry
The superior electrical conductivity of CW008A copper makes it ideal for electrical applications. It is widely used in the manufacture of electrical conductors, including cables, busbars, and transformer windings. Its high purity ensures minimal electrical resistance, which is crucial for efficient power transmission.
Thermal Applications
Due to its excellent thermal conductivity, CW008A copper is used in heat exchangers, radiators, and other thermal management systems. Its ability to efficiently transfer heat makes it indispensable in applications requiring effective thermal dissipation.
Construction
In the construction industry, CW008A copper is used for roofing, cladding, and plumbing due to its corrosion resistance and aesthetic appeal. Copper roofing and cladding provide durability and low maintenance, while copper pipes are preferred for their longevity and antimicrobial properties.
Automotive Industry
In the automotive sector, CW008A copper is utilized in various components, including radiators, heat exchangers, and electrical wiring systems. The demand for high-performance and reliable materials in vehicles makes CW008A copper a preferred choice.
Standards and Specifications
CW008A copper conforms to various international standards, ensuring its quality and consistency. Some of the key standards include:
- BS EN 13601: Copper and copper alloys – Copper rod, bar, and wire for general electrical purposes.
- ASTM B170: Standard Specification for Oxygen-Free Electrolytic Copper Refinery Shapes.
- JIS H3100: Copper and Copper Alloy Sheets, Plates, and Strips.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- High Conductivity: Both thermal and electrical conductivity are among the highest for engineering materials.
- Corrosion Resistance: Excellent resistance to corrosion, especially in atmospheric environments.
- Ductility and Malleability: Easily formed into various shapes without compromising mechanical integrity.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Attractive reddish-brown appearance that develops a patina over time.
Disadvantages
- Cost: High purity and specialized production processes make CW008A copper more expensive than other copper grades.
- Workability: Although highly ductile, its softness can sometimes be a drawback in applications requiring high strength and wear resistance.
- Oxidation: While resistant to many forms of corrosion, it can oxidize in certain environments, affecting its appearance and surface properties.
Comparative Analysis
- Comparison with Other Coppers：Compared to other copper grades like C110 (ETP copper) or C122 (DHP copper), CW008A offers superior electrical and thermal conductivity due to its higher purity. However, ETP copper is often more cost-effective for applications where slightly lower conductivity is acceptable. DHP copper, with its added phosphorous, provides better resistance to hydrogen embrittlement, making it suitable for certain environments.
- Comparison with Other Materials ：When compared to other conductive materials such as aluminum, CW008A copper offers significantly higher electrical conductivity. Aluminum, although lighter and cheaper, requires larger cross-sectional areas to achieve the same conductivity as copper. In thermal applications, materials like silver offer better conductivity but are prohibitively expensive for most practical uses.
Recycling and Environmental Impact
Copper, including CW008A, is highly recyclable. The recycling process involves collecting scrap copper, which is then melted and refined to produce new copper products. This process is energy-efficient and reduces the environmental impact associated with copper mining and extraction. Additionally, recycling copper helps conserve natural resources and reduces waste.
Future Trends
The use of copper dates back to ancient civilizations, where it was one of the first metals to be extracted and utilized. Over time, the refinement and production processes have evolved, leading to the development of high-purity grades like CW008A. The demand for pure copper has grown with the advancement of electrical and electronic technologies.
The future of CW008A copper is likely to be influenced by advancements in technology and increasing demand for efficient and sustainable materials. The growing emphasis on renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, and advanced electronics will continue to drive the demand for high-purity copper. Innovations in production processes and recycling technologies are expected to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of CW008A copper.
References
- ASM International. (2001). ASM Handbook: Volume 2: Properties and Selection: Nonferrous Alloys and Special-Purpose Materials.
- Callister, W. D. (2007). Materials Science and Engineering: An Introduction. John Wiley & Sons.
- Copper Development Association Inc. (CDA). (2021). Properties of Wrought and Cast Copper Alloys.
- European Committee for Standardization (CEN). (2002). EN 13601: Copper and copper alloys – Copper rod, bar, and wire for general electrical purposes.