Copper Blanks
Copper blanks deliver unmatched electrical and thermal conductivity, making them essential for busbar fabrication, heat sink manufacturing, electrical contacts, and grounding systems. Our copper blank selection features C110 ETP copper, the industry standard for electrical applications with 101% IACS conductivity, alongside C101 OFE copper for ultra-high-purity electronics and vacuum applications, and C122 DHP copper for plumbing, HVAC, and brazed assemblies. Copper's natural antimicrobial properties also make it increasingly popular for architectural hardware and touch surfaces. Each blank is sheared or sawn from certified mill stock with protective packaging to preserve the clean surface finish that copper applications demand. Whether you are fabricating custom busbars for a power distribution panel, machining heat exchangers, or crafting decorative hardware, our copper blanks provide the conductivity, workability, and consistency required for professional results.
Available Forms
Grade Reference
| Grade | Type | Common Use | Typical Form |
|---|---|---|---|
| C110 | ETP Copper | Electrical & busbar | Sheet |
| C101 | OFE Copper | Electronics & vacuum | Sheet |
| C122 | DHP Copper | Plumbing & HVAC | Sheet |
Detailed Specs by Grade & Form
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between C110 and C101 copper?
C110 ETP (Electrolytic Tough Pitch) copper contains a minimum 99.9% copper with small amounts of oxygen, providing 101% IACS electrical conductivity at a reasonable price. C101 OFE (Oxygen-Free Electronic) copper is refined to 99.99% purity with virtually no oxygen content, achieving 101% IACS conductivity with superior performance in vacuum and high-frequency applications. For standard busbars and electrical work, C110 is the cost-effective choice. C101 is specified when oxygen embrittlement during brazing or outgassing in vacuum systems would be a concern.
Can copper blanks be soldered and brazed?
Yes, copper is one of the easiest metals to solder and braze. Standard tin-lead and lead-free solders wet copper surfaces readily with appropriate flux. For higher-strength joints, silver brazing with BAg alloys produces excellent results. C122 DHP copper is specifically designed for brazed assemblies because its phosphorus content acts as a deoxidizer, allowing brazing without flux in many applications. C110 ETP copper should be brazed with care, as its oxygen content can cause embrittlement at brazing temperatures if a reducing atmosphere is present.
How do I prevent copper blanks from tarnishing?
Copper naturally develops a patina when exposed to air and moisture. To prevent tarnishing during storage, keep blanks in their original sealed packaging until ready for use, and store them in a dry environment. For finished parts, clear lacquer coatings, Renaissance wax, or benzotriazole-based tarnish inhibitors provide effective long-term protection. If blanks have already tarnished, a mild acid solution such as diluted citric acid or a commercial copper cleaner will restore the bright finish before final processing.
What is copper used for in electrical applications?
Copper blanks serve as the starting material for custom busbars that distribute power in electrical panels, switchgear, and battery systems. They are also machined into electrical contacts, terminal lugs, grounding plates, and heat sinks for power electronics. The combination of high conductivity, easy solderability, and mechanical workability makes copper the default material for any application where electrical or thermal performance is paramount. Aluminum is sometimes substituted for weight savings, but copper remains the benchmark for conductivity-critical designs.