Copper Alloys used in the CNC Machine Shop
Introduction
Copper alloys have been instrumental in shaping industries due to their remarkable combination of electrical conductivity, thermal properties, corrosion resistance, and mechanical strength. Among the diverse array of copper alloys, alloys 101, 110, 145, 162, 175, and 182 each boast unique compositions and properties, making them integral to various applications. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the characteristics of each alloy, shedding light on their composition, properties, and diverse applications.
Copper 101: Pure Copper
Composition:
Copper (Cu): 99.99%
Physical Properties:
Rockwell 10-60 HRB Hardness
Ultimate tensile strength of 32-66 ksi
Yield tensile strength of 10-53 ksi
Applications:
Electrical conductors and connectors
Electronic components and printed circuit boards (PCBs)
Electrical Wiring
Copper Alloy 101 (C10100), also known as Oxygen-Free Electronic (OFE) Copper, is prized for its unparalleled electrical and thermal conductivity. Its low oxygen content makes it ideal for applications where high purity and conductivity are critical.
Copper 110: Electrolytic Copper
Composition:
Copper (Cu): 99.9%
Oxygen (O): 0.04%
Physical Properties:
Rockwell 10-60 HRB Hardness
Ultimate tensile strength of 32-66 ksi
Yield tensile strength of 10-53 ksi
Applications:
Electrical wiring and bus bars
Plumbing components
Heat exchangers and radiators
Copper Alloy 110 (C11000), or Electrolytic Tough Pitch (ETP) Copper, is a versatile alloy widely used in electrical and plumbing applications. Its combination of conductivity and formability makes it a go-to choice for various industries. Copper 110 is the most common copper alloy used in machining applications.
Copper 145: Tellurium Copper
Composition:
Copper (Cu): 99.5%
Tellurium (Te): 0.5%
Phosphorus (P): 0.008%
Physical Properties:
Rockwell 35-55 HRB Hardness
Ultimate tensile strength of 32-56 ksi
Yield tensile strength of 10-51 ksi
Applications:
Machined components and connectors
Electrical switchgear
Fasteners and nuts
Copper Alloy 145 (C14500), known as Tellurium Copper, is valued for its enhanced machinability while maintaining favorable electrical and thermal properties. It finds applications in components where both machinability and conductivity are essential.
Copper 162: Cadmium Copper
Composition:
Copper (Cu): 99%
Cadmium (Cd): 1%
Physical Properties:
Rockwell 65-75 HRB Hardness
Ultimate tensile strength of 35-100 ksi
Yield tensile strength of 7-69 ksi
Applications:
Electrical connectors
Contacts and terminals
Machined components
Copper Alloy 162 (C16200), Cadmium Copper, offers improved machinability while maintaining essential copper alloy characteristics. It finds application in components where machinability and conductivity are critical.
Copper 175: Beryllium Copper
Composition:
Copper (Cu): 96.9%
Cobalt (Co): 2.5%
Beryllium (Be): 0.6%
Physical Properties:
Rockwell 30 -100 HRB Hardness
Ultimate tensile strength of 45-115 ksi
Yield tensile strength of 25-110 ksi
Applications:
Electrical connectors and contacts
Springs and diaphragms
Aerospace components
Copper Alloy 175 (C17500), also known as Cadmium Copper, offers a unique combination of high strength, electrical conductivity, and corrosion resistance. It finds applications in aerospace, electronics, and other industries where these properties are paramount.
Copper 182: Chromium Copper
Composition:
Copper (Cu): 99.2%
Chromium (P): 0.8%
Physical Properties:
Rockwell 60-85 HRB Hardness
Ultimate tensile strength of 34-86 ksi
Yield tensile strength of 14-77 ksi
Applications:
Injection mold cores and cavities
Resistance welding electrodes
Metal-forming tools
Copper Alloy 182 (C18200), or Chromium Copper, stands out for its high strength and wear resistance. It is commonly utilized in applications where hardness and durability are crucial, such as in injection molding and metal-forming tools.
Conclusion
In the intricate world of copper alloys, each alloy serves as a testament to the adaptability and excellence of copper as a material. From the high conductivity of Alloy 101 to the strength of Alloy 175, these alloys contribute to advancements in electronics, manufacturing, and beyond. Understanding the distinct characteristics of each alloy allows engineers and manufacturers to tailor their material choices precisely to the requirements of their applications, fostering innovation and ensuring optimal performance across diverse industries.
Do you need CNC Machined Copper Parts?
OpenAI. (2023). ChatGPT [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com
*Physical Property values based on Machinery’s Handbook 31
**Copper physical properties vary greatly based on temper