C14500 Tellurium Copper Rod & Sheet
Premium High-Conductivity Free-Cutting Copper Alloy. Compliant with ASTM B301, EN CW118C, and JIS C1450 standards for extreme precision electrical and thermal applications.
Advanced Technical Profile: C14500 Tellurium Copper
The ultimate synthesis of electrical performance and high-speed machining efficiency.
C14500 Tellurium Copper (UNS C14500) is recognized globally as the premier copper-based alloy for applications demanding high electrical and thermal conductivity paired with exceptional machining throughput. By incorporating a precise addition of tellurium (typically 0.4% to 0.7%), this alloy achieves a machinability rating of 85% relative to Free-Cutting Brass (C36000), while maintaining an electrical conductivity of at least 85% IACS.
Unlike pure coppers (such as C11000 or C10200) which are notoriously difficult to machine due to their ductile nature, C14500 produces short, manageable chips. This prevents tool wrapping, reduces friction, and significantly increases tool life during CNC milling and turning operations. Furthermore, the addition of a minute amount of phosphorus prevents hydrogen embrittlement during brazing and welding, ensuring structural integrity in high-temperature assemblies.
Our C14500 Tellurium Copper is processed under strict metallurgical controls to yield a uniform distribution of copper telluride (Cu₂Te) phase particles throughout the copper matrix. This microstructural consistency guarantees reliable machining properties and predictable mechanical performance across every batch of rods, sheets, and custom profiles we supply.
Key Application Domains
- Electrical Engineering: High-current connector pins, semiconductor bases, switch gears, and terminal blocks.
- Gas & Plasma Cutting: Heavy-duty welding and cutting nozzles, plasma torch tips, and gas diffuser plates.
- Automotive & EV Systems: Fast-charging gun contacts, battery connectors, and sensor housings.
- Precision Instruments: Coaxial connectors, RF connectors, and plumbing fittings requiring rapid machining.
Sichuan Kepai New Materials Co., Ltd.
Established in May 2017, Sichuan Kepai New Materials Co., Ltd. is a high-tech private company specializing in the research, development, production, and sales of high-conductivity and high-strength free-cutting tellurium copper and other special copper alloys.
Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility is optimized for precision metallurgy, enabling us to supply global markets with premium-grade copper alloys that meet the most demanding industrial standards. By maintaining complete control over the melting, casting, extrusion, drawing, and finishing processes, we ensure that our materials possess superior homogeneity and surface finish.
International Standards & Chemical Equivalents
Cross-reference guide and chemical composition breakdown for C14500 Tellurium Copper.
| Standard Organization | Alloy Designation | Copper (Cu) % | Tellurium (Te) % | Phosphorus (P) % | Other Impurities (Max) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UNS (United States) | UNS C14500 | Balance (≥99.30) | 0.40 – 0.70 | 0.004 – 0.012 | 0.1% max |
| ASTM (USA) | ASTM B301 / B301M | Balance (≥99.30) | 0.40 – 0.70 | 0.004 – 0.012 | 0.1% max |
| CEN (Europe) | EN CW118C (CuTeP) | 99.25 – 99.60 | 0.40 – 0.70 | 0.003 – 0.012 | 0.1% max |
| DIN (Germany - Historical) | DIN 2.1546 | Balance (≥99.30) | 0.40 – 0.70 | 0.004 – 0.012 | 0.1% max |
| JIS (Japan) | JIS C1450 | ≥99.30 | 0.40 – 0.70 | 0.004 – 0.012 | 0.1% max |
Note on Chemical Composition: The presence of phosphorus (P) within the range of 0.004% to 0.012% acts as a deoxidizer, ensuring the alloy is not susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement when exposed to reducing gases at high temperatures. The copper content includes silver (Ag), which naturally co-exists with copper and does not negatively impact electrical conductivity.
Physical & Mechanical Properties
Comprehensive engineering data for C14500 Tellurium Copper under standard conditions.
Mechanical Properties by Temper
| Temper | Tensile Strength (MPa) | Yield Strength (MPa) | Elongation (%) | Hardness (HV / HB) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| O (Annealed) | 205 – 245 | 70 – 110 | ≥ 30 | 40 – 60 HV |
| H02 (Half Hard) | 260 – 320 | 200 – 280 | ≥ 12 | 80 – 100 HV |
| H04 (Hard) | 300 – 360 | 250 – 310 | ≥ 6 | 95 – 120 HV |
Physical Properties
| Property | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 8.94 | g/cm³ |
| Electrical Conductivity | 85 – 93 | % IACS |
| Thermal Conductivity | 355 | W/(m·K) at 20°C |
| Melting Point | 1051 – 1075 | °C |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion | 16.7 x 10⁻⁶ | /°C (20-300°C) |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 117 | GPa |
CNC Machining & Tooling Recommendations
Maximize throughput and extend tool life when processing C14500 Tellurium Copper.
1. Tool Selection
High-speed steel (HSS) or tungsten carbide tools are highly recommended. For long production runs, carbide tools coated with TiAlN or DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) provide superior wear resistance against the abrasive copper telluride inclusions.
2. Cutting Speeds & Feeds
Turning: Spindle speed 100-250 m/min, feed rate 0.1-0.3 mm/rev.
Milling: Cutting speed 80-180 m/min, feed per tooth 0.05-0.15 mm. C14500 allows up to 4x higher speeds compared to standard oxygen-free copper.
3. Coolant & Lubrication
Use a generous flow of water-soluble oil emulsion or synthetic cutting fluid. This acts as both a coolant and chip flusher. Proper chip evacuation is critical to prevent scratching the high-finish surface of machined components.
| Operation | Tool Material | Cutting Speed (SFM / m/min) | Feed Rate | Tool Geometry (Rake / Relief) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turning (Roughing) | Carbide | 400 – 600 SFM (120-180 m/min) | 0.007 – 0.015 IPR (0.18-0.38 mm/rev) | 0° – 5° Back Rake; 6° – 8° Relief |
| Turning (Finishing) | Carbide | 600 – 1000 SFM (180-300 m/min) | 0.003 – 0.005 IPR (0.08-0.13 mm/rev) | 0° – 5° Back Rake; 6° – 8° Relief |
| Drilling | HSS / Carbide | 150 – 300 SFM (45-90 m/min) | 0.002 – 0.008 IPR (0.05-0.20 mm/rev) | 118° – 130° Point Angle; 12° Lip Relief |
| Tapping | HSS | 40 – 80 SFM (12-24 m/min) | Standard Pitch | 2-flute or 3-flute spiral point taps |
Quality Standards & Certifications
Our materials undergo rigorous testing to ensure absolute compliance with global industrial regulations.
Market Distribution
In addition to a high share of the domestic copper alloy market, Kepai has exported to overseas clients with a high reputation.
Product Center
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Frequently Asked Questions
Technical answers to common questions about C14500 Tellurium Copper.