Electrolytic Tough Pitch Copper (ETP Copper – C11000) is the most widely used commercially pure copper grade, produced through electrolytic refining. It contains a minimum of 99.90% copper with a controlled oxygen content of 0.02–0.04%.
The presence of oxygen enhances electrical conductivity but slightly reduces weldability. ETP copper is primarily used in electrical and electronic applications where maximum conductivity and cost efficiency are required.
Typical Chemical Composition
| Element | Typical % |
|---|---|
| Copper (Cu) | ≥ 99.90 |
| Oxygen (O) | 0.02 – 0.04 |
| Other impurities | < 0.01 |
Note:
ETP copper is not recommended for hydrogen-rich or brazed environments
due to the risk of hydrogen embrittlement from copper oxides.
Physical Properties
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 8.94 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | 1083 °C |
| Electrical Conductivity | ≈ 100% IACS |
| Thermal Conductivity | 385 – 401 W/m·K |
| Magnetic Behavior | Non-magnetic |
| Crystal Structure | FCC |
Mechanical Properties (Annealed)
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ~200 MPa |
| Yield Strength | ~70 MPa |
| Elongation | 40 – 50% |
| Hardness | ~45 HB |
Mechanical strength is developed later by cold working processes such as rolling, drawing, or bending.
Strengthening & Metallurgical Behavior
ETP copper has a face-centered cubic (FCC) crystal structure that provides excellent ductility and electrical conductivity.
✔ Strengthening only through cold working
✔ No precipitation or heat-treat hardening
✔ Annealing restores full ductility
Typical Applications
Electrical & Power Industry
Electrical wires and cables
Busbars and conductor plates
Transformer windings
Switchgear components
Earthing and grounding systems
Electronics & Industrial
Motors and generators
Electrical connectors
Heat sinks and thermal plates
Construction & Infrastructure
Lightning protection systems
Power distribution panels
Advantages of ETP Copper
✔ Exceptional electrical conductivity (~100% IACS)
✔ Excellent thermal conductivity
✔ High ductility and formability
✔ Good corrosion resistance
✔ Easy fabrication (rolling, drawing, bending)
✔ Cost-effective vs oxygen-free copper
✔ Globally standardized and widely available
Why Choose ETP Copper (C11000)?
ETP copper is chosen when applications demand maximum electrical efficiency, reliable heat dissipation, ease of fabrication, and proven long-term performance at a competitive cost.
Quick Comparison
| Grade | Conductivity | Hydrogen Resistance | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| ETP Copper (C11000) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Low | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Oxygen-Free Copper (C10200) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Excellent | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| DHP Copper (C12200) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Excellent | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
ETP Copper – Grade C11000 remains the global industry standard for electrical and power applications, offering near-perfect conductivity, excellent workability, and worldwide acceptance.