Copper alloys are excellent conductors of electricity and heat, and are widely used in different applications and industries from battery contacts to heat sink plates and beyond.
Accudyne offers CNC copper machining services for corrosion-resistant, conductive precision metal goods. We operate multiple CNC milling, turning, and cutting machines that hold tight tolerances and produce complex parts with high accuracy and minimal variation.
Learn more about the characteristics and uses of copper parts and Accudyne’s machining capabilities.
Properties of Copper Alloys
Copper is a semi-precious metal that is well-known for its conductivity, corrosion resistance, and workability. Accudyne works with various copper alloys to manufacture precision components.
Conductivity and Thermal Efficiency
Copper is highly electrically conductive, with a 100% conductivity rating. It is often used for wiring and connectors in electronic applications. It also conducts heat well and is used in applications that require heat transfer including heat sinks or heat exchangers. While some alloying elements can reduce its natural conductivity, copper still offers superior performance compared to other metals.
Strength and Corrosion Resistance
Copper alloys are corrosion-resistant and won’t chemically degrade like other metals. Some alloying elements also add physical strength characteristics. For example, the tin content of phosphor bronze makes it stronger and less likely to wear through. Aluminum bronze offers extra corrosion resistance and protection against brines because of the added aluminum.
Machinability Considerations
Pure copper is a soft, ductile, and highly machinable metal, but it is often too soft for many applications. It’s possible to take advantage of copper’s machinability and add strength by alloying it with brass or bronze, which adds hardness and reduces ductility. Adding different elements in the different amounts creates many different alloys that are suited to different uses, a manufacturing partner like Accudyne can help you select the best option for your application.
Industrial Applications of Copper Alloys
Copper is used in a wide array of electrical components, consumer goods, and electrical parts. Some of the industrial applications Accudyne supports are:
Electronics and Electrical Systems
Copper alloys like brass have high thermal and electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and durability. Common applications include:
- Circuit breakers.
- Electrical connectors.
- Terminals.
Power Generation and Energy Infrastructure
Power generation systems need highly efficient and long-lasting components that can withstand large amounts of electrical energy and heat throughout continuous or repeated cycles. Common applications for copper machining include bus bars, heat exchangers, and transformers. Not only can copper transfer electricity with minimal energy loss, but it can effectively disperse heat, reduce equipment downtime, and mitigate heat damage.
Aerospace, Automotive, and HVAC
Copper can be used in precision parts for aerospace, automotive, and HVAC applications that need to run with minimal risk of failure. Copper alloys offer mechanical strength, fatigue resistance, and good electrical and thermal properties, which contribute to reliable performance over time. At Accudyne, we produce bushings, heat exchanger components, and more for these industries.
Machined Copper Alloy Parts by Accudyne
Accudyne offers comprehensive CNC copper machining services in Englewood, Colorado. Our 7,200-square-foot manufacturing facility houses several advanced CNC machine centers for milling, turning, cutting, wire EDM and more. Our experienced in-house staff provide comprehensive machining and quality inspection for stainless steel, copper, plastic, and aluminum parts.
CNC Turning and Milling Capabilities
Our precision CNC milling and turning centers are compatible with copper alloys. We use CAD renderings to create the CAM files that guide the cutting tools and maintain tight tolerances in these machines. Our CNC equipment can perform multiple material removal operations in rapid succession, and many can even run unattended, 24/7, for fast turnaround times.
Material Grades We Work With
Our team works with many different copper alloys and grades, including but not limited to:
- Brass (C360). This alloy offers good machinability for parts like fittings and valves.
- Bronze (C932). Bronze is durable, wear-resistant, and ideal for heavy-duty parts like bearings and bushings.
- C110 (Electrolytic Tough Pitch Copper). This alloy is highly conductive, making it an optimal choice for electrical and electronic parts.
Precision and Quality Come Standard at Accudyne
At Accudyne, we specialize in machining copper alloy parts. We also verify each component using optical comparators, gauges, and visual inspection systems for a high level of quality assurance.
Contact us today to learn more about our copper machining capabilities or request a quote for pricing details.
