Copper CNC Machining for Precision Parts

High-conductivity copper for electrical contacts, connectors, heat-transfer parts, and precision components.

Explore copper grades and CNC machining options for custom parts, from functional prototypes to low-volume production.

Illustrative copper connector block and round bar

Illustration · Representative material, component and finish examples, not production records. Final material condition and finish are confirmed for each project.

Metal Materials

About Copper

Copper is valued for its electrical and thermal conductivity, making it a practical choice for contacts, busbars, heat-transfer components, and other precision parts. Copper machining performance varies by grade and temper, so material selection should balance conductivity, strength, and machinability.

Price: Quote-based
Lead Time: Confirmed with quote
Wall Thickness: Design and process dependent
Tolerances: Drawing and process dependent
Max Part Size: Design and process dependent
Grades for Review: C10100, C11000, C14500, C17200

C10100 Oxygen-Free Copper An oxygen-free copper grade selected for high conductivity and applications where low oxygen content is important.

Material Condition OS025 annealed flat product, 0.04 in (1.02 mm) Tensile Strength Approx. 234 MPa Yield Strength Approx. 76 MPa, 0.5% extension Elongation Approx. 45% Electrical Conductivity Minimum 101% IACS, annealed Density Approx. 8.94 g/cm³

C11000 Electrolytic Tough Pitch Copper A widely used high-conductivity copper grade for electrical contacts, busbars, and heat-transfer components.

C14500 Tellurium Copper A free-machining copper alloy that combines useful electrical conductivity with improved chip control for machined components.

Material Condition H02 half-hard rod, 1 in (25.4 mm) Tensile Strength Approx. 290 MPa Yield Strength Approx. 276 MPa, 0.5% extension Elongation Approx. 25% Electrical Conductivity Approx. 93% IACS, annealed Density Approx. 8.94 g/cm³

C17200 Beryllium Copper A heat-treatable copper alloy used where higher strength and spring performance are required. Availability and processing require project review.

Material Condition TH04 precipitation-hardened rod, 0.375 in (9.53 mm) Tensile Strength Approx. 1,410 MPa Yield Strength Approx. 1,100 MPa, 0.2% offset Elongation Approx. 2% Electrical Conductivity Approx. 22% IACS, precipitation-hardened Density Approx. 8.26 g/cm³

Mechanical values are typical references at 20°C for the form, size, and temper stated on each card. Conductivity values are referenced at 20°C and may use a different temper, as indicated. Actual properties vary with material specification, product form, and processing. Confirm final requirements against the material certificate.

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Advantages & Considerations of Copper

Advantages

Electrical Conductivity: High-conductivity copper grades support current-carrying contacts, connectors, and busbars.
Thermal Conductivity: Copper transfers heat efficiently in heat sinks, cold plates, and other thermal components.
Grade Selection: Copper and its alloys offer different balances of conductivity, strength, and machinability.
Machining Options: Grades such as tellurium copper can improve chip control when machining detailed features.
Finishing Options: Compatible polishing and plating processes can support appearance and contact requirements.

Considerations

Softness and Burrs: High-purity copper can deform or form burrs during machining and handling.
Surface Oxidation: Copper can tarnish over time, so exposed and contact surfaces may need suitable protection.
Material and Handling Requirements: Balance conductivity, strength, and cost when selecting a grade. Beryllium copper requires appropriate processing controls.

Common Applications
of Copper

Illustration of a lightweight pocketed bracket, spacer and compact sensor mount

Aerospace

Aerospace prototypes and custom parts for engineering evaluation.

Illustration of a generic machined housing, shaft and mounting bracket for vehicle development

Automotive

Custom automotive parts for prototypes and low-volume production.

Illustration of a molded plastic housing, metal trim frame and formed mounting plate

Electronic Appliances

Custom appliance parts and enclosures for product development.

Illustration of an enclosure panel, mounting bracket and white polymer equipment fixture

Medical

Medical device prototypes, custom housings, and mechanical components.

Illustration of metal gripper fingers, a sensor bracket and a precision fixture block

Automation

Custom robotic parts, fixtures, and automation equipment components.

Surface Finishing Options
for Copper

Illustrative silver connector shell, two metal disks and a brass-toned contact component

Electroplating

Electrically deposited metal coatings for protective, conductive, or decorative applications.

Illustrative pale-silver nickel-finished machined block and stepped bushing

Electroless Plating

Chemically deposited metal coatings with relatively uniform thickness on compatible, prepared surfaces.

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Polishing

Mechanical polishing for smoother surfaces and satin, bright, or mirror finishes.

Illustrative metal panel and trim with parallel satin brush lines

Brushed Finish

Directional satin textures for visible metal panels, housings, and components.

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Painting

Industrial painting for specified colors, gloss levels, and application-specific surface protection.

Machined metal component with circular bore, mounting holes, and visible tool marks

As Machined

CNC machined surfaces retaining tool marks without additional cosmetic finishing.

Our Commitment

Support for Your Copper Parts

From copper material selection to machining and finishing, we help review the details that matter to your project.

Material Selection

Compare copper grades against conductivity, strength, and manufacturing requirements.

Manufacturing Review

Review part geometry, quantities, and process requirements before production.

Precision Machining

Plan CNC machining around critical dimensions, features, and surface requirements.

Surface Finishing

Review compatible finishes for appearance, contact surfaces, and service conditions.

Quality Inspection

Define dimensional and visual checks according to the project requirements.

Project Support

Discuss quotation, lead time, and delivery needs with our team.

Ready to Machine Copper Parts?

Share your drawings and requirements for material guidance, manufacturing review, and a project quote.

Engineering Review
Material Guidance
Project Support

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