Custom Copper CNC Machining Supplier In China
Celerity Precision is your expert supplier for custom CNC machined copper components in China. We specialize in precision milling and turning of various copper grades, including C101 (OFHC) and C110 (ETP), to produce parts with exceptional electrical and thermal conductivity. Our advanced CNC facility and experienced machinists are adept at handling the unique challenges of machining copper, ensuring superior surface finishes, minimal burring, and tight tolerance adherence for your most critical applications in the electronics, energy, and thermal management industries.
For high-purity, precision-machined copper parts delivered with speed and reliability, submit your RFQ to Celerity Precision today.
Copper in CNC Machining
Copper is a highly valued material in CNC machining, prized for its unparalleled electrical and thermal conductivity. While its soft and ductile nature presents unique machining challenges, its performance in electrical and thermal applications is second to none. At Celerity Precision, we utilize specialized tooling, optimized cutting speeds, and effective coolant strategies to overcome these challenges, producing high-integrity copper parts that are crucial for high-performance applications.
- Superior Electrical Conductivity: The highest conductivity of any non-precious metal.
- Excellent Thermal Conductivity: Unmatched ability to transfer and dissipate heat.
- Good Corrosion Resistance: Naturally resistant to corrosion from water and many chemicals.
- Biostatic & Antimicrobial: Naturally inhibits the growth of bacteria and microbes.
- Excellent Ductility & Formability: Can be easily formed and drawn, but requires careful machining.
- Distinctive Aesthetic: Offers a unique reddish-gold appearance for decorative uses.
Copper C101 (OFHC / T2)
An oxygen-free, high-conductivity copper with 99.99% purity, making it the top choice for high-end electronics and vacuum applications.
Tensile Strength, Yield (MPa) | 220-360 MPa |
Fatigue Strength (MPa) | ~100 MPa |
Elongation at Break (%) | 50% |
Hardness (Brinnell) | 40-110 |
Density (g/cm³) | 8.94 |
Copper C103 (Oxygen-Free / T1)
Another oxygen-free grade with high purity and excellent conductivity, also resistant to hydrogen embrittlement.
Tensile Strength, Yield (MPa) | 210-310 MPa |
Fatigue Strength (MPa) | ~100 MPa |
Elongation at Break (%) | 55% |
Hardness (Brinnell) | 40-100 |
Density (g/cm³) | 8.94 |
Copper C103 (Oxygen-Free / TU2)
A phosphorus deoxidized copper with high electrical and thermal conductivity.
Tensile Strength, Yield (MPa) | 220-350 MPa |
Fatigue Strength (MPa) | ~95 MPa |
Elongation at Break (%) | 45% |
Hardness (Brinnell) | 45-115 |
Density (g/cm³) | 8.94 |
Copper C110 (ETP / TU0)
Electrolytic Tough Pitch copper is the most common grade, offering an excellent balance of conductivity, ductility, and cost.
Tensile Strength, Yield (MPa) | 220-370 MPa |
Fatigue Strength (MPa) | ~100 MPa |
Elongation at Break (%) | 50% |
Hardness (Brinnell) | 40-110 |
Density (g/cm³) | 8.94 |
Surface Finishing Options for Copper
We provide a range of finishing services to protect copper’s surface, enhance its appearance, or prepare it for specific functional applications.
As Machined
Provides the natural, bright reddish-gold finish of copper, which will naturally tarnish over time.
Sand Blasting
Creates a uniform, non-reflective matte finish, ideal for reducing glare.
Tumbling
An effective method for deburring and creating a smooth, semi-polished finish on batches of small parts.
Electropolish
Creates an ultra-smooth, bright, and clean surface, improving surface purity.
Alodine
Not applicable. This is a treatment for aluminum.
Heat Treatment
Not applicable for hardening, but annealing can be used to soften copper.
Black Oxidize
A chemical treatment can be used to create a decorative black or antique brown patina.
Electroless Plating
Electroless nickel is often applied to copper to provide a hard, wear-resistant, and solderable surface.
Painting
A clear coat can be applied to preserve the natural color and prevent tarnishing.
Pros and Cons of Copper CNC Machining
Pros
- Unmatched Conductivity: The primary reason for its use in electrical and thermal components.
- Excellent Corrosion Resistance: Highly resistant to water and non-oxidizing acids.
- Antimicrobial Properties: Suitable for medical and high-touch surface applications.
- High Ductility: Can withstand significant plastic deformation, which is beneficial in some applications.
Cons
- Difficult to Machine: Its softness and high ductility make it "gummy," requiring sharp tools and specific techniques to avoid poor surface finish and tool wear.
- High Cost: Significantly more expensive than aluminum or steel.
- Heavy Weight: It is a very dense and heavy material, over three times heavier than aluminum.
- Tarnishes Easily: The surface readily oxidizes in air, forming a greenish patina over time if not protected by a coating.
Applications of CNC Machined Copper Parts
Aerospace
High-performance electrical connectors and thermal management systems.
Automotive
Radiators, heat exchangers, and high-performance electrical components in electric vehicles.
Consumer Electronics
High-performance heat sinks, busbars, electrical connectors, and terminals.
Medical
Components for MRI machines and other equipment requiring high conductivity and antimicrobial properties.
Industrial
EDM electrodes, welding electrodes, and high-performance bushings.
Energy
Components for heat exchangers, electrical transformers, and power distribution systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is copper difficult to machine?
Its extreme softness and ductility can cause it to tear rather than cut cleanly, leading to a poor surface finish and rapid tool wear if not machined with the correct parameters.
What is the difference between C101 (OFHC) and C110 (ETP) copper?
C101 is Oxygen-Free High Conductivity copper (99.99% pure), making it superior for vacuum and high-end electronic applications. C110 contains a small amount of oxygen and is the more common, cost-effective choice for general electrical use.
Will my copper parts change color?
Yes. Uncoated copper will naturally tarnish and oxidize when exposed to air, developing a darker patina that can eventually turn green. A clear protective coating is needed to maintain the bright, polished look.
Is copper stronger than aluminum?
In terms of tensile strength, many copper alloys are stronger than common aluminum alloys like 6061-T6. However, aluminum has a far superior strength-to-weight ratio.
Is copper magnetic?
No, copper is not magnetic, which is an important property for many electronic and sensor applications.
Can you machine very fine features in copper?
It is challenging due to the material’s softness, but with our specialized micro-machining tools and techniques, we can produce parts with fine and delicate features.
Is copper expensive to machine?
Yes. The raw material is more expensive than aluminum or steel, and the slower, more careful machining process required increases the cycle time and overall cost.
Can copper be welded?
Yes, copper can be welded, but it is difficult due to its extremely high thermal conductivity, which rapidly pulls heat away from the weld zone. Specialized techniques are required.