Copper Machining Services

Copper CNC machining delivers precise, high-quality components by leveraging advanced milling, turning, and drilling processes. Known for excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, copper parts are widely used in electronics, aerospace, automotive, and medical industries. This service ensures tight tolerances, superior finishes, and reliable performance for complex applications.

Various Options

Functionality

Cost-effectiveness

Copper CNC Machining Services
SpecificationCapability
Tolerance±0.005mm (±0.0002″)
Surface FinishUp to Ra 0.4μm
Minimum Wall Thickness0.5mm (0.02″)
Maximum Part Dimensions600mm × 400mm × 300mm
Minimum Feature Size0.2mm (0.008″)
Thread SizesM1.6 to M36
CertificationsISO 9001:2015, AS9100D

Understanding Copper in CNC Machining

Copper stands out in the manufacturing world due to its exceptional electrical and thermal conductivity, making it invaluable for numerous applications. However, these same properties present unique challenges during the CNC machining process.

Key Properties of Copper

  • Excellent electrical conductivity (second only to silver)
  • Superior thermal conductivity for heat dissipation
  • High ductility and malleability
  • Natural antimicrobial properties
  • Good corrosion resistance in various environments
  • Recyclable without loss of properties

Speak With Our Engineering Team

Discuss your specific application needs with our CNC machining specialists.

Machining Challenges with Copper

While copper offers exceptional properties, it presents several machining challenges that require specialized expertise:

High Ductility

Copper's softness can cause it to deform rather than cut cleanly, requiring precise feed rates and sharp tooling.

Heat Management

Copper's high thermal conductivity spreads heat quickly, affecting dimensional accuracy and tool life during machining.

Built-up Edge

Copper particles can adhere to cutting tools, creating a built-up edge that affects surface finish and dimensional accuracy.

At Fecision, we've developed specialized techniques to overcome these challenges, ensuring precision results with every copper component we manufacture.

Advantages and Limitations of Copper CNC Machining

Understanding the benefits and challenges of working with copper helps in making informed decisions for your manufacturing projects.

Advantages of Copper Machining

  • Exceptional electrical and thermal conductivity
  • Excellent corrosion resistance in most environments
  • High ductility allows for complex shapes
  • Natural antimicrobial properties
  • Good machinability with proper techniques
  • Recyclable and environmentally sustainable

Limitations of Copper Machining

  • Higher material cost compared to aluminum or steel
  • Softness can lead to deformation during machining
  • Requires specialized tooling and techniques
  • Potential for work hardening during machining
  • Susceptible to oxidation without proper finishing
  • Lower strength-to-weight ratio than steel

Subtypes of Copper for CNC Machining

Selecting the right copper alloy is crucial for achieving optimal performance in your application.
Each grade offers specific properties that make it suitable for different uses.

C101
(OFE, T2)

  • High-purity oxygen-free copper (minimum copper content: 99.99%) with ultra-low oxygen (≤0.003%) and impurity levels.
  • Ideal for applications requiring high reliability and minimal signal loss.

Tensile Strength (MPa)

Yield Strength (MPa)

Fatigue Strength (MPa)

Hardness (Brinell)

Elongation at Break (%)

Density (g/cm³)

Maximum Temp (°C)

220-240

69-83

90–100 (at 10⁸ cycles)

35-45

45-55

8.96

300 (continuous)
600 (intermittent)

C102
(OF, T1)

  • High-purity oxygen-free copper (minimum copper content: 99.95%) with slightly higher oxygen (≤0.005%) than C101.
  • Suitable for most high-conductivity applications where ultra-purity is not mandatory.

Tensile Strength (MPa)

Yield Strength (MPa)

Fatigue Strength (MPa)

Hardness (Brinell)

Elongation at Break (%)

Density (g/cm³)

Maximum Temp (°C)

210–230

65-80

85–95 (at 10⁸ cycles)

30-40

40-50

8.96

280 (continuous)
580 (intermittent)

C103
(OFE, TU2)

  • Oxygen-free copper grade (minimum copper content: 99.95%) optimized for maximum electrical conductivity (≥101% IACS).
  • Offer good ductility, compatible with cold working (e.g., drawing, bending).

Tensile Strength (MPa)

Yield Strength (MPa)

Fatigue Strength (MPa)

Hardness (Brinell)

Elongation at Break (%)

Density (g/cm³)

Maximum Temp (°C)

215-235

68-82

88–98 (at 10⁸ cycles)

32-42

42-52

8.96

290 (continuous)
590 (intermittent)

C110
(ETP, T2)

  • The most widely used copper grade (minimum copper content: 99.90%) and belongs to the electrolytic tough pitch (ETP) family. 
  • Offer excellent ductility, machinability, and affordability; versatile for general-purpose applications.

Tensile Strength (MPa)

Yield Strength (MPa)

Fatigue Strength (MPa)

Hardness (Brinell)

Elongation at Break (%)

Density (g/cm³)

Maximum Temp (°C)

200-220

60-75

80–90 (at 10⁸ cycles)

28-38

35-45

8.94

250 (continuous)
550 (intermittent)

C122
(DHP, TP2)

  • A phosphorus-deoxidized copper (minimum copper content: 99.90%) with phosphorus added (0.015 – 0.040%) to remove oxygen, eliminating hydrogen embrittlement risks.
  • Often used in welded or brazed assemblies.

Tensile Strength (MPa)

Yield Strength (MPa)

Fatigue Strength (MPa)

Hardness (Brinell)

Elongation at Break (%)

Density (g/cm³)

Maximum Temp (°C)

220-240

70-85

90–100 (at 10⁸ cycles)

35-45

30-40

8.93

260 (continuous)
560 (intermittent)

Copper CNC Machining Surface Finishing Options

The right surface finish enhances both the functionality and aesthetics of your copper components.
Fecision offers a comprehensive range of finishing options to meet your specific requirements.

Mechanical Finishes

  • Polishing: Creates a mirror-like reflective surface
  • Brushing: Produces a directional, satin appearance
  • Bead Blasting: Creates a uniform matte finish
  • Tumbling: Smooths edges and creates a consistent surface

Protective Coatings

  • Clear Coating: Prevents oxidation while preserving appearance
  • Nickel Plating: Enhances hardness and wear resistance
  • Gold Plating: Improves conductivity and corrosion resistance
  • Silver Plating: Maximizes electrical conductivity

Chemical Treatments

  • Passivation: Improves corrosion resistance
  • Patination: Creates decorative colored finishes
  • Electropolishing: Smooths microscopic surface irregularities
  • Anodizing: Creates a durable oxide layer (for certain alloys)

Our finishing experts can recommend the optimal surface treatment based on your component's functional requirements, environmental exposure, and aesthetic preferences.

Copper CNC Machining Application

Industries We Serve

Copper's unique combination of electrical conductivity, thermal properties, and corrosion resistance makes it invaluable across numerous industries. Fecision produces precision copper components for a wide range of applications.

Medical

Antimicrobial touch surfaces
Electrical components for devices
Thermal management in equipment
MRI/imaging system components

Aerospace

Hydraulic system components
Electrical distribution parts
Heat exchanger components
Waveguides for communication

Electronics

Heat sinks and thermal management
Electrical connectors and terminals
EMI/RFI shielding components
Busbars and power distribution

Industrial

Resistance welding electrodes
Injection molding nozzles
Induction heating components
Fluid handling systems

Copper Machining FAQs

Copper presents unique machining challenges due to its softness, ductility, and high thermal conductivity. It requires specialized tooling, proper feed rates, and cooling techniques to machine effectively. With our expertise and optimized processes, we overcome these challenges to deliver precision copper components.
Fecision accommodates orders of all sizes, from single prototypes to high-volume production runs. We understand that different projects have different requirements, and our flexible manufacturing capabilities allow us to serve your needs efficiently regardless of quantity.
While pure copper offers superior electrical conductivity (100% IACS), brass (copper-zinc alloy) provides better machinability and mechanical strength with approximately 28% of copper's electrical conductivity. Brass is often more cost-effective and easier to machine, while pure copper is preferred for applications requiring maximum electrical or thermal conductivity.
Fecision can achieve tolerances as tight as ±0.005mm (±0.0002") with our precision copper CNC machining services. For most standard applications, we work with tolerances of ±0.025mm (±0.001"). The specific tolerance capabilities depend on the part geometry, copper alloy, and feature complexity.
We offer numerous finishing options including mechanical finishes (polishing, brushing, bead blasting), protective coatings (clear coating, nickel plating, gold plating), and chemical treatments (passivation, patination, electropolishing). Our team can recommend the optimal finish based on your functional requirements and aesthetic preferences.

Prefer to speak with an expert directly?

Our technical team is available to discuss your copper CNC machining requirements and provide immediate assistance.

Why Choose Fecision for Your Copper CNC Machining Needs

The right surface finish enhances both the functionality and aesthetics of your copper components.
Fecision offers a comprehensive range of finishing options to meet your specific requirements.

Technical Expertise
Our engineers understand the unique properties of copper and have developed specialized techniques to overcome common machining challenges.
Quality Assurance
Rigorous quality control processes ensure every component meets or exceeds your specifications and industry standards.
Comprehensive Service
From design optimization to final finishing, we provide end-to-end solutions for all your copper machining requirements.

Ready to Experience Superior Copper CNC Machining?

Contact Fecision today to discuss your project requirements and discover how our expertise can bring your designs to life.

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