Custom Copper Sheet Metal Fabrication
We can heat-treat components to optimize the physical properties based on the application. Each custom copper part we manufacture is always met with the utmost care and precision. We utilize cutting-edge laser cutting and cnc bending equipment, including 2000mm line layer laser cutting, and a wide range of advanced technology software to create custom components based on your specific requirements.
As an industry AS9100 and ISO9001:2015 certified metal working shop, we can ensure you will receive the high-performance copper sheet metal components you want with the mission-critical configurations you need.
Contact a Be-Cu sheet metal fabrication expert or submit an RFQ online and let us start cut and bending copper to your specifications.
Processes | Laser Cutting/CNC Bending/Welding etc |
Lead Time | As fast as 7 days |
Finishing Options | Black Oxide, Electropolishing, ENP, Media Blasting, Nickel Plating, Passivation, Powder Coating, Tumble Polishing, Zinc Plating, Vibratory Tumbling |
Tolerance | With drawing: as low as +/- 0.005 mm No drawing: ISO 2768 medium |
Applications | Industrial applications, fittings, fasteners, cookware, medical devices |
Alloys | Copper 101,Copper 110 |
Having developed a deep understanding of the key issues and dynamics that govern multiple industries and functional expertise, we are able to provide strategic advice to our clients helping them to acquire substantive business results of both a financial and operational nature.
Benefits of Fabrication Copper
Sheet metal fabrication using copper offers several benefits due to the unique properties of this metal. Copper is a versatile material with excellent electrical conductivity, heat resistance, corrosion resistance, and malleability. Here are some of the key benefits of using copper in sheet metal fabrication:
- Excellent Electrical Conductivity:Copper is one of the best conductors of electricity, making it ideal for electrical and electronic applications.It minimizes energy loss and heat generation in electrical circuits, making it highly efficient.
- High Thermal Conductivity:Copper has excellent thermal conductivity, which makes it suitable for applications where heat dissipation is crucial, such as heat sinks in electronics.
- Corrosion Resistance:Copper naturally forms a protective oxide layer on its surface, preventing further corrosion.This resistance to corrosion makes copper a durable choice for outdoor and marine applications.
- Ductility and Malleability:Copper is highly ductile and malleable, making it easy to shape and form into various complex designs during the fabrication process.It can be rolled, bent, and stamped to create intricate components.
- Aesthetic Appeal:Copper has a distinctive reddish-brown color that can add an aesthetically pleasing and distinctive look to fabricated products.It can be polished or left to develop a natural patina, offering design flexibility.
- Longevity and Durability:Copper is a long-lasting material that can withstand harsh environmental conditions, making it suitable for outdoor and underground applications.It has a long lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
- Recyclability:Copper is highly recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly choice.Recycling copper requires significantly less energy compared to extracting and refining new copper ore.
- Biocidal Properties:Copper has antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent the growth of bacteria and viruses on surfaces made from copper.This property is particularly valuable in healthcare settings.
- Ease of Joining:
- Copper can be easily joined using various methods, such as soldering, brazing, welding, and mechanical fastening, allowing for versatile assembly options.
- Resistance to Extreme Temperatures:Copper can withstand both high and low temperatures, making it suitable for applications in extreme environments.
- Low Maintenance:Copper components typically require minimal maintenance due to their corrosion resistance and longevity.
While copper offers many advantages, it’s essential to consider the specific requirements of your application and the cost of copper compared to other materials, as it can be more expensive than some alternatives. However, for applications where its unique properties are essential, copper is an excellent choice in sheet metal fabrication.
Case Studies
Copper Sheet Metal Manufacturing & Capabilities
Our precision sheet metal fabriction capabilities include in-house, full-service manufacturing for all copper components. Our state-of-the-art metal working equipment and technology include:
- 7-axis (3D) and flat (2D) CNC Laser Cutter: Tolerance ranges from +/-0.001 in. to +/-0.005 in.Capable of handling sheets and plates with 16 gauge to 1.25 in. thickness, 20 to 90 ft. length and 7 to 12 ft. width.7 axis tube laser services available for up to 6 inch square and round tube.
- CNC Bending Machine : Bending plate up to 12 ft. width with 3/8 in. thickness. Bending tube parts from 1 1/2 to 3 1/2 in. sizes.
- Welding Machine: Welding assemblies with up to 24 ft. length and 92 in. dia.
- Quality Control: Temperature controlled inspection room with CMM and manual inspection capabilities.
- Software: Full 5-axis CAM system with machine simulation. We use Hypermill, Solidworks, MasterCAM, PC-DMIS CAD++ and Shoptech E2 Shop Management software.
Common Used Copper Grades Of Sheet Metal Fabrication
Copper sheet metal fabrication utilizes various grades or alloys of copper, each with specific properties suited to different applications. The most common copper grades used in sheet metal fabrication include:
- Copper Alloy C110 (also known as Electrolytic Tough Pitch or ETP Copper):
- C110 is the purest form of copper, with a minimum copper content of 99.90%.
- It has excellent electrical conductivity and thermal conductivity, making it ideal for electrical and electronic applications, heat exchangers, and electrical connectors.
- C110 is often chosen for its high purity and corrosion resistance.
- Copper Alloy C101 (also known as Oxygen-Free High Conductivity or OFHC Copper):
- C101 is even purer than C110, with a minimum copper content of 99.99%.
- It is highly sought after for applications requiring the utmost electrical conductivity, such as in superconductors, high-end audio cables, and some aerospace components.
- Copper Alloy C260 (also known as Cartridge Brass):
- C260 is a copper-zinc alloy with good strength, ductility, and machinability.
- It’s commonly used in sheet metal fabrication for applications like decorative trim, hardware, and cartridge cases.
- Copper Alloy C272 (also known as Yellow Brass):
- C272 is another copper-zinc alloy with good corrosion resistance and workability.
- It’s often used for sheet metal applications where corrosion resistance and aesthetics are important, such as architectural elements and musical instruments.
- Copper Alloy C464 (also known as Naval Brass):
- C464 is a copper-zinc alloy with added trace amounts of tin and sometimes other elements.
- It offers excellent corrosion resistance in marine environments and is used for marine hardware, valves, and propellers.
- Copper Alloy C706 (also known as Cupronickel 90/10):
- C706 is a copper-nickel alloy with 90% copper and 10% nickel.
- It has excellent resistance to seawater corrosion and is commonly used in marine applications, including heat exchangers and condensers.
- Copper Alloy C715 (also known as Cupronickel 70/30):
- C715 is a copper-nickel alloy with 70% copper and 30% nickel.
- It also offers good corrosion resistance in marine environments and is used in similar applications to C706.
- Copper Alloy C145 (also known as Tellurium Copper):
- C145 is a copper alloy with small amounts of tellurium, which improves machinability.
- It’s used when precise machining and good electrical conductivity are required, such as in electrical connectors and switchgear components.
The choice of copper grade in sheet metal fabrication depends on the specific requirements of the application, including factors like electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and machinability. Selecting the appropriate grade ensures that the final product meets the desired performance criteria.
Work with Copper Sheet Metal Fabrication Experts
Years of copper sheet metal fabrication experience have provided Be-Cu with the expertise needed for high-performance copper fabrication parts. Email us at [email protected] or contact us to start your copper project.