After Silver, copper is the most conductive material accessible on earth, with copper wires being 66% more conductive than the same-size aluminum wires. For transferring the same volume of current in an 8 AWG copper wire, a 6 AWG aluminum conductor 25% thicker is required.

Though copper is susceptible to corrosion and can go greenish in color when it is exposed to oxygen, this outcome can be seen on old pennies or the Statue of Liberty. By eliminating the oxygen from the copper, oxygen-free copper is fashioned, dramatically improving its corrosion resistance.  The usage of OFC comes with understandable paybacks of improved current flow, enhanced conduction competence, and reduced ecological strain.

Types of Oxygen-Free Copper

There are mainly three oxygen-free copper grades. 

• C10100
  C10100 is chosen as oxygen-free electronic and attains a minimum conductivity score of 101% IACS under annealed conditions. This copper is recommended for applications needing high ductileness and electrical in addition to thermal conductivity.
• C10200
  This is 99.95% pure copper. It is an idyllic choice when the material requires a strong confrontation against stress rust cracking. It likewise has outstanding welding, conductivity, and soldering characteristics.
• C11000
  This type of copper is also called ETP. Though it is 99.9% pure, this has more oxygen than OFE copper, with the latter having below 10 ppm of oxygen, while ETP comprises a minimum of 150 ppm of oxygen. Though, ETP is the most regularly utilized grade for its intrinsic fabrication potential.

Benefits of Using Oxygen-Free Copper

The usage of OFC can be useful for precise applications. Mentioned below are some of the benefits.

Excellent Electrical Conductivity

Throughout the manufacturing process of OFC, the copper is treated in the existence of carbon to eliminate any oxygen. High-level purity, along with the absence of oxygen, lets more current pass through the same conductor size. Therefore, OFC is precisely used for induction coils, battery cables, and space heaters.

High Thermal Capacity

Because of higher conductivity, OFC copper wires do not heat as quickly as other metals like aluminum. Consequently, they also have greater thermal strength and conductivity. Industries profoundly depend on them for high-temperature applications like induction heating furnaces.

Outstanding Resistance to Hydrogen Embrittlement

Oxygen-free copper has excellent resistance against hydrogen embrittlement happening under wet electrochemical settings. For the reason of its pliability, weldability, and absence of reactivity in oxygen-free waters. Finland is making use of copper canisters for storing nuclear waste in an encapsulation plant.

Excellent Construction Properties

All oxygen-free coppers are apt for machining, with an outstanding machinability rating of 20. They have outstanding hot and cold working properties. All the copper grades are perfect for brazing, soldering, and gas shielding arc welding. Though, seam welding and spot welding are not suggested.

With the increasing fascination of the people toward electric vehicles, there is an increase in the demand for Oxygen-Free Copper all around the globe. And, what’s more, there is absolutely no stopping the inclination of people in the direction of electric vehicles.