What’s CNC Precision Machining? A Technical Explanation
Automotive components, medical implants, defense equipment parts, and many other applications require tight tolerances for their functionality, often as low...
Copper CNC Machining Service
Get high-quality copper CNC machining services with advanced machinery and an experienced team that ensures precision and efficiency. Exceptional results that meet your specifications, whether you need prototypes or large-scale production runs.
Copper in CNC Machining
Copper is a versatile material used in various industries due to its excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, corrosion resistance, and malleability. It is widely used in various electrical applications due to its exceptional thermal and electrical conductivity. Companies in various industries, including electrical, construction, transport, and consumer goods, find the alloy’s versatility and useful properties beneficial for various applications. Raw pieces of metal are meticulously carved down to create the desired shape or object in CNC machined copper parts.
| Available Copper at RapidDirect: | Copper C101(T2), C103(T1), C103(TU2), C110(TU0), Beryllium Copper |
| Price: | $$$ |
| Lead Time: | < 10 days |
| Wall Thickness: | 0.75 mm |
| Tolerances: | ±0.005″ (±0.125mm) |
| Max Part Size: | 200 cm x 80 cm x 100 cm |
Copper C101(T2)
Also known as oxygen-free copper, this alloy is renowned for its high electrical and thermal conductivity. It is ideal for applications that require superior conductivity and ductility.
| Tensile Strength, Yield (MPa) | Fatigue Strength (MPa) | Elongation at Break (%) | Hardness (Brinell) | Density (g/cm³) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 - 400 | 80 - 150 | 15 - 60 | 60 - 100 | 8.94 |
Copper C103(T1)
Copper C103 is a high-conductivity copper that is often used in high-frequency applications due to its excellent electrical properties and ease of forming.
| Tensile Strength, Yield (MPa) | Fatigue Strength (MPa) | Elongation at Break (%) | Hardness (Brinell) | Density (g/cm³) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 - 380 | 70 - 140 | 5 - 45 | 55 - 90 | 8.89 - 8.94 |
Copper C103(TU2)
This pure copper variant is known for its excellent thermal conductivity and ease of welding, making it suitable for heat exchangers and electrical connectors.
| Tensile Strength, Yield (MPa) | Fatigue Strength (MPa) | Elongation at Break (%) | Hardness (Brinell) | Density (g/cm³) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 110 - 370 | 75 - 150 | 5 - 50 | 60 - 95 | 8.89 - 8.94 |
Copper C110(TU0)
Copper C110, or electrolytic tough pitch (ETP) copper, is highly conductive and easily machined. It is a popular choice for electrical components and wiring.
| Tensile Strength, Yield (MPa) | Fatigue Strength (MPa) | Elongation at Break (%) | Hardness (Brinell) | Density (g/cm³) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 110 - 350 | 70 - 100 | 20 - 50 | 65 - 90 | 8.89 |
Surface Finishing Options for Copper
RapidDirect offers extensive surface finishing services that enhance the aesthetic appeal, functionality, and durability of copper parts. As part of our copper CNC machining service, these surface finishes include sandblasting, tumbling, electropolishing, alodine, teflon coating, electrophoresis, painting, and more. Each finish delivers superior coatings or adds layers to enhance the appearance and improve the physical properties of machined copper parts. Some unique finishes help hide minor imperfections on copper components.
As machined
This option leaves copper with visible tool marks from machining.
Polishing
This option leaves copper with visible tool marks from machining.
Sand Blasting
Sandblasting can be applied to copper to give it a matte or textured finish.
Tumbling
Tumbling smooths and cleans up copper surfaces, leaving a matte finish.
Electropolish
Electropolishing can enhance the surface of copper, giving it a bright, reflective finish and improving corrosion resistance.
Alodine
Though mainly used for aluminum, Alodine can sometimes be applied to copper for light corrosion protection.
Heat Treatment
Heat treatment can alter the appearance of copper through oxidation, giving it different colorations or surface textures.
Black Oxidize
This process can create a darkened surface on copper, offering some protection against oxidation.
Electroless Nickel
This finish is suitable for copper to improve wear resistance and corrosion protection.
Chrome Plating
This process can be applied to copper for a shiny, durable surface finish.
Brushed Finish
Brushing can give copper a textured, matte finish with fine, directional lines.
Brushed Finish
Brushing creates a textured finish on bronze, often giving a matte, linear appearance, used for decorative purposes.
Pros and Cons of
Copper CNC Machining
Copper has numerous advantages that make it well-suited for CNC machining processes. Nevertheless, it is important to consider certain drawbacks of aluminum parts machining before deciding to use it for any project.
Pros
- High Electrical Conductivity: Ensures minimal energy loss and efficient performance.
- High Thermal Conductivity: Ideal for heat exchangers, radiators, and other thermal management systems.
- Corrosion Resistance: Long-lasting and able to withstand harsh environments.
- Malleability and Ductility: Easily shaped and formed into complex designs.
- Biostatic Properties: Resists bacterial growth and is useful in medical applications.
- Durability: Long lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Cons
- Softness: Prone to deformation under stress, challenging to maintain tight tolerances.
- Gummy Nature: Adheres to cutting tools, leading to poor surface finishes and increased tool wear.
- Cost: Higher material and machining costs compared to other metals.
- Thermal Expansion: This can affect dimensional stability during temperature fluctuations.
Applications of
CNC Machined Copper Parts
Copper is widely used in several industries. Its exceptional thermal and electrical conductivity make it an obvious choice for high-power electrical applications, like the magnetrons found in microwave ovens. Given the surge in electronic vehicles (EVs), there has been a corresponding rise in the demand for copper wiring. Other essential applications of CNC machined copper parts include:
- Electrical Engineering: Components for wiring, connectors, and circuits.
- Thermal Management: Heat exchangers, heat sinks, and radiators.
- Automotive: Radiators, electrical systems, and sensor components.
- Aerospace: High-performance electrical connectors and thermal management systems.
- Medical: Surgical instruments and imaging equipment.
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FAQs
CNC milling copper involves using computer-controlled machinery to remove material from a solid block of copper to create precise parts and components. The process typically includes programming the CNC machine, setting up the copper material, and performing the milling operations with specialized cutting tools.
The costs can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the design, the type of copper used, the quantity of parts, and any additional finishing processes required. For a detailed quote, please upload your design file on our quotation platform.
Machining copper can be challenging due to its softness and high ductility. This can cause it to adhere to cutting tools, leading to poor surface finishes and increased tool wear. Specialized tools and techniques are necessary to achieve optimal results.
Tools used in copper machining include high-speed steel (HSS) and carbide tools designed to handle copper’s properties. Additionally, specialized coatings and geometries may enhance tool performance and longevity.
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