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Copper Sheet Metal Fabrication Service
Durable, precise copper parts delivered fast. We deliver fast turnarounds, precise fabrication, and cost-effective solutions.
Copper in Sheet Metal Fabrication
Copper’s excellent conductivity, malleability, and corrosion resistance make it a preferred material in sheet metal fabrication for creating quality and durable custom copper parts.
Copper C101(T2) and C103(T1) are commonly used in sheet metal copper fabrication due to their superior performance and versatility. These copper alloys offer excellent formability and are suitable for various manufacturing processes, ensuring reliable custom copper parts
| Price: | $$$$$ | Available Copper at RapidDirect: | Copper C101(T2), Copper C103(T1). |
|---|---|
| Lead Time: | < 6 days |
| Wall Thickness: | 0.5 mm |
| Tolerances: | ISO2768-C |
| Max Part Size: | 200 x 80 x 100 cm |
Copper C103(T2)
Copper C101(T2) is a pure form of copper with exceptional electrical conductivity and high ductility. It is suitable for making electrical and electronic parts.
| Tensile Strength, Yield (MPa) | Fatigue Strength (MPa) | Elongation at Break (%) | Hardness (Brinell) | Density (g/cm³) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 210-230 | 85 | 40 | 45-55 | 8.94 |
Copper C103(T1)
Copper C103(T1) has excellent thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance. It is suitable for making heat exchangers and industrial applications.
| Tensile Strength, Yield (MPa) | Fatigue Strength (MPa) | Elongation at Break (%) | Hardness (Brinell) | Density (g/cm³) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 220-250 | 90 | 38 | 50-60 | 8.94 |
Surface Finishing Options for Copper
RapidDirect provides customized surface finishes for copper sheet metal fabrication, improving both performance and aesthetics.
As Machined
Preserves copper's natural finish with visible machining marks, suitable for functional applications where surface aesthetics are less critical.
Tumbling
Smooths edges and enhances surface uniformity through vibratory polishing, improving aesthetics and preparing copper for additional coatings.
Electropolish
Polishes copper to a bright, reflective finish by removing surface impurities while improving corrosion resistance and electrical conductivity.
Electroless Plating
Applies a uniform metallic layer (e.g., nickel or gold) for enhanced corrosion resistance, conductivity, or solderability.
Electroplating
Deposits a metallic coating (e.g., silver, nickel, or gold) to improve copper's appearance, corrosion resistance, or electrical properties.
Painting
Adds a protective and decorative layer in various colors, shielding copper from tarnishing and corrosion.
Powder Coating
Provides a thick, durable, and colorful coating that resists scratches and corrosion, enhancing copper's appearance and lifespan.
Brushed
Creates a consistent linear texture for a modern, matte aesthetic, slightly improving surface durability and hiding imperfections.
Painting
Adds a protective and decorative layer in various colors, shielding copper from tarnishing and corrosion.
Pros and Cons of Copper Sheet Metal Fabrication
Copper offers many benefits that make it suitable for sheet metal fabrication processes. However, there are some downsides to consider before choosing it for any project.
Pros
- Excellent electrical and thermal conductivity.
- High malleability and ductility.
- Strong corrosion resistance.
- Attractive appearance
Cons
- Higher cost compared to some other metals.
- Susceptible to oxidation without proper finishing.
- It requires precise control during fabrication to avoid hardening the work.
Applications of Copper Sheet Metal Parts
Copper sheet metal parts are widely used across various industries, including:
- Electrical connectors and terminals
- Heat sinks and exchangers
- Plumbing fittings and fixtures
- Architectural details and ornaments
- Decorative panels and sculptures
- Industrial valves and pumps
FAQs
Yes, copper sheet metal can be welded using techniques such as TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding and MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding. However, TIG welding is a better alternative for copper due to its ability to create precise and clean welds, which is important given copper’s high thermal conductivity.
Proper preparation, including cleaning and preheating the copper sheets, is essential to achieve strong, reliable welds. Welding copper requires careful control of the heat input to prevent warping and ensure the integrity of the joints, making it a specialized process in copper fabrication.
Typical thicknesses of copper sheets used in fabrication range from 0.5mm to 6mm. The choice of thickness depends on the specific application and the final part’s desired properties. Thinner sheets are suitable for detailed and decorative applications, while thicker sheets provide the necessary strength and durability for structural and industrial components.
Sheet Metal Fabrication Resources
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Comprehensive Guide to Sheet Metal Hemming: Techniques, Uses, and Tips
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