What is C12000 copper?
C12000 is a high-performance phosphorus-deoxidized copper material widely used in industrial fields due to its excellent electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and workability. Its chemical composition is strictly controlled, with the main component being copper (Cu) content not less than 99.9%, and trace amounts of phosphorus (P) added as a deoxidizer, typically in the range of 0.004%~0.012%. This unique composition not only enhances the material's purity but also significantly improves its corrosion resistance and weldability, while avoiding the hydrogen embrittlement issues common in ordinary pure copper.
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Characteristics of Chemical Composition
C12000 copper material has extremely low impurity content, with elements such as lead (Pb), iron (Fe), and sulfur (S) strictly limited to ensure the material maintains stable physical properties even under high temperatures or complex environments. The addition of phosphorus provides it with excellent ductility and fatigue resistance, making it suitable for precision processing such as deep drawing and bending. Furthermore, its low oxygen content (≤0.01%) further reduces the risk of porosity and cracks, making it particularly suitable for applications requiring high material purity.
|
Element |
Cu |
P |
Pb |
Fe |
Zn |
Others |
|
Weight % |
≥ 99.9 |
0.004–0.012 |
≤ 0.005 |
≤ 0.005 |
≤ 0.005 |
≤ 0.1 |
Main Application Areas
Electronics and Electrical Industry: Leveraging its outstanding electrical conductivity, C12000 is commonly used to manufacture critical components such as wires, connectors, and relays, especially excelling in circuit systems requiring high reliability.
Heat Exchange Equipment: Its high thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance make it an ideal material for heat exchange components such as condenser tubes and heat sinks, widely used in refrigeration, chemical, and energy sectors.
Construction and Decoration: After surface treatment, it can be used to produce weather-resistant roofing sheets, pipes, and decorative components, combining functionality and aesthetics.
Precision Manufacturing: Suitable for mechanical parts such as valves and bearings, particularly excelling in scenarios requiring wear resistance and long-term stability.
Equivalent Grades Table for C12000 Copper
| Standard System | Equivalent Grade | Name / Description |
|---|---|---|
| UNS (USA) | C12000 | The defining standard. Phosphorus-deoxidized copper. |
| ASTM (USA) | B152, B124 | Specification standards for sheet/strip and rod/bar forms. |
| CDA (USA) | Alloy 120 | Copper Development Association designation. |
| Common Name | DHP Copper | Deoxidized High Phosphorus - the universal industry name. |
| EN (Europe) | Cu-DHP | Modern European designation (EN 1652, 12449). |
| ISO | Cu-DHP | International Standard (ISO 431). |
| JIS (Japan) | C1201 | The direct Japanese equivalent. |
| BS (UK - Old) | C106 | Former British Standard for tubes (BS 2875). |
| China GB | TP1 | The closest functional Chinese equivalent. Phosphorus-deoxidized copper for tubes/pipes. |
Key Distinctions from Other Common Coppers:
vs. C11000 (ETP Copper - Electrolytic Tough Pitch):
C11000 contains oxygen (~0.04%). It is not recommended for welding or high-temperature reducing atmospheres (risk of hydrogen embrittlement). C12000 is preferred for welded applications.
vs. C12200 (Similar DHP Copper):
C12200 has a slightly higher phosphorus range. They are often considered interchangeable for many applications, but C12200 is more common for plumbing tube.
vs. C10100 / C10200 (Oxygen-Free Copper):
OF coppers have higher conductivity (101% IACS) and superior ductility. They are used for high-vacuum electronics and critical conductors. C12000 is more economical for general plumbing and heat exchangers.
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Dimensional Range Table
In plumbing and HVAC standards, copper tubing is commonly classified into three main types based on wall thickness: Type K, Type L, and Type M.
Type K: Has the thickest wall. It is the strongest and most durable, primarily used for underground burial, high-pressure applications, and where the highest level of protection is required.
Type L: Has a medium wall thickness. It is the most common and versatile type, widely used for residential and commercial water supply lines (hot and cold) and for many HVAC applications.
Type M: Has the thinnest wall. It is suitable for above-ground, low-pressure residential water supply lines and some drainage applications, offering a cost-effective solution where conditions allow.
The outside diameter (OD) is the same for all three types within a given nominal size. The difference lies in the inner diameter (ID), which decreases as the wall gets thicker.
| Nominal Size (inches) | Type K | Type L | Type M |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outside Diameter (OD) | Same for all types | ||
| Wall Thickness | Thickest | Medium | Thinnest |
| Inside Diameter (ID) | Smallest | Medium | Largest |
| 1/2" | OD: 0.625" ID: 0.527" Wall: 0.049" |
OD: 0.625" ID: 0.545" Wall: 0.040" |
OD: 0.625" ID: 0.569" Wall: 0.028" |
| 3/4" | OD: 0.875" ID: 0.745" Wall: 0.065" |
OD: 0.875" ID: 0.785" Wall: 0.045" |
OD: 0.875" ID: 0.811" Wall: 0.032" |
| 1" | OD: 1.125" ID: 0.995" Wall: 0.065" |
OD: 1.125" ID: 1.025" Wall: 0.050" |
OD: 1.125" ID: 1.055" Wall: 0.035" |
Our factory
We provide a full range of copper products-rods, tubes, plates, bars, wires, and strips-tailored to international specifications including ASTM, BS, and JIS. Our manufacturing capabilities feature horizontal continuous casting for large-diameter bars, rotary piercing mills for high-precision tubes, and multi-roll finishing mills for ultra-thin strips. To ensure superior quality, we implement comprehensive testing protocols: chemical analysis via XRF, mechanical property verification on universal testing machines, and non-destructive testing (ultrasonic and eddy current) for internal and surface integrity. With integrated production, rigorous inspection, and flexible customization, we deliver high-performance copper materials for electrical, HVAC, machinery, and construction industries worldwide.
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