Contact usC101 can be challenging to machine, compared with other metals. It has excellent properties and is ideal for applications needing high conductivity. As a relatively expensive material, it should only be used when its properties are essential.
C101, also commonly known as CW004A is 99.9% pure copper. After silver, it is the next best conductor of electricity and therefore widely used in electronics applications. It is also used in a wide range of engineering applications due to high impact strength and ductility as well as corrosion resistance.
Tooling and work surfaces to be used for copper should be cleaned thoroughly before use to prevent cross contamination which may effect corrosion resistance.
Machining C101 copper can be challenging compared to other metals which is where an experienced machinist is essential. When machining C101, we use sharp cutters and lots of coolant. Machining speeds and feeds are altered to allow efficient removal of swarf.
Relative to other metals, copper is more expensive and C101 is one of the most expensive grades of copper so should be chosen where its properties such as high conductivity are required.
The material price for copper is known to fluctuate so quotes are generally only valid for around one week.
C101 can be annealed or solution treated by heating to 370 - 650°C and then being rapidly cooled.
Soldering of C101 is excellent and brazing is very good. Other than gas shielded arc welding, welding is not recommended.
Copper C101 is suitable to be finished in a wide range of treatments. It is subject to surface oxidation/patination - a blue-green layer that naturally develops over time and may or may not be desirable.
If the patina is desirable, its development can be accelerated by the use of oxiding agents. If undesirable, copper can be protected with a lacquer coating.
See our Finishing Processes page for further information on services that we can facilitate.
Here are the standard stock sizes/colours for C101 in the UK. Please note we do not supply stock material, the information provided is purely for design and research purposes.
C101 is available in the following sizes:
From 3/16” dia – 6” dia
From 1/2” x 1/8” – 6” x 1/4” Rad Edge
From 6mm sq – 3” Sq
From 1200mm x 600mm up to 2000mm x 1000mm and thickness from 0.4mm up to 6mm
0.2mm to 15mm Thick - Spec: EN 1652:1997
C101 is 99.99% pure copper
