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Electrolytic Copper 2.0060, also known by its international designation Cu-ETP R300, is a high-purity, oxygen-containing copper material widely recognized for its excellent electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and good formability. The abbreviation ETP stands for Electrolytic Tough Pitch, indicating the refining process and oxygen content (~0.04%).
This copper grade is standardized under EN CW004A, DIN 2.0060, and UNS C11000, making it one of the most commonly used technical coppers in the manufacturing industry. It is primarily used in electrical and thermal applications where high conductivity is paramount. ⚡
| Element | Typical Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Cu | ≥ 99.90 |
| O₂ | 0.02–0.04 |
The high copper content directly contributes to its outstanding electrical conductivity—often reaching ≥ 101% IACS (International Annealed Copper Standard). The trace oxygen level improves castability and polishability, but it may influence weldability and hydrogen embrittlement in certain atmospheres.
Key material correlations:
High Cu content → Superior electrical and thermal conductivity
Oxygen presence → Improved surface finish in drawn wires but risk of hydrogen embrittlement in reducing environments
🧠 Note for designers: If your application involves exposure to hydrogen or high-vacuum environments, consider switching to oxygen-free high-conductivity copper (OFHC) like Cu-OF (CW008A).
Cu-ETP R300 is readily machinable, though it is considered soft and ductile, which can lead to built-up edge (BUE) issues during machining.
| Property | Rating / Value |
|---|---|
| Machinability (vs. free-cutting brass) | ~20–30% |
| Formability | Excellent |
| Weldability | Limited (avoid hydrogen-containing environments) |
| Soldering & Brazing | Excellent |
| Cold working | Very good |
💡 Tips for machining Electrolytic Copper 2.0060:
Use sharp carbide tools with high rake angles
Apply coolant liberally to avoid material smearing
Moderate cutting speeds with higher feed rates work best
Avoid dry machining to reduce tool wear and friction heat
This grade also lends itself well to drawing, bending, stamping, and spinning, making it highly suitable for both sheet metal and wire-based components.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Electrical Conductivity | ≥ 101% IACS (58 MS/m) |
| Thermal Conductivity | ~390–400 W/m·K |
| Density | 8.94 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | ~1083°C |
| Tensile Strength (Annealed) | ~200 MPa |
| Elongation | ≥ 40% (annealed condition) |
Thanks to its excellent conductivity and formability, Electrolytic Copper 2.0060 is especially suitable for:
Low-voltage and high-voltage electrical systems
Heat exchangers and busbars
Connectors and terminals in moderate mechanical load environments
⚠️ It is not recommended for use in vacuum systems or hydrogen-rich atmospheres, due to the risk of hydrogen embrittlement caused by its oxygen content.
Cu-ETP R300 is widely used across multiple industries, especially where electrical or thermal performance is a priority. Common applications include:
🔌 Electrical and Electronics
Power distribution busbars
Electrical switchgear
Motor and generator windings
PCB components and connectors
🔥 Thermal Systems
Heat sinks and exchangers
Industrial furnace parts
Radiator components
🔩 Mechanical and Industrial Components
Clamps, terminals, and lugs
High-performance sealing rings
EMI shielding in sensitive devices
Its excellent balance of conductivity, workability, and availability makes it a favorite choice for mechanical design engineers working on electromechanical assemblies.
✅ Electrical Excellence: One of the highest conductivity copper grades in commercial use
✅ Thermal Efficiency: Ideal for components requiring rapid heat dissipation
✅ Formability: Outstanding cold-forming ability for wire drawing and stamping
✅ Surface Quality: Smooth surface after drawing or polishing
✅ Availability: Easily sourced in rod, plate, strip, tube, and wire forms
✅ Cost-Efficiency: More affordable than exotic copper alloys while offering top-tier performance
🤔 Compared to alternatives like Cu-OF (oxygen-free copper), Cu-ETP offers similar conductivity but at a lower cost, making it more attractive for general-purpose electrical systems that don’t operate under vacuum or hydrogen exposure.
Electrolytic Copper 2.0060 / Cu-ETP R300 remains a cornerstone material for electrical and thermal engineering. Its outstanding conductivity, good mechanical properties, and excellent processing characteristics make it a go-to choice for mechanical designers working on electrical infrastructure, industrial controls, and power systems.
While there are limitations—particularly related to hydrogen embrittlement and vacuum compatibility—these are manageable with proper application awareness.
🔧 For designers aiming to balance performance, workability, and cost, Cu-ETP R300 continues to be a trusted material—solid, conductive, and dependable. ⚙️