OFE certified grade high-purity grade copper has a minimum electrical conductivity as high as 101.5% IACS, making it ideal for demanding electronic applications. Its impurity content is less than 40 ppm (0.0040%), with no single impurity exceeding 25 ppm (0.0025 %). The content of volatile elements in vacuum at high temperatures Cd, Hg and Zn is a maximum of 1 ppm. To ensure high resistance to hydrogen embrittlement, the maximum oxygen content is restricted to 5 ppm (0.0005%). Properties of Certified Grade OFE Copper:
High purity
Highest possible electrical and thermal conductivity
Excellent formability and impact strength
Excellent weldability, brazability and solderability
Excellent for high-vacuum applications
Immune to hydrogen embrittlement
Very adherent oxide scale
High homogeneity and reliability
Manufacturing OFE copper
Certified Grade OFE follows a different manufacturing, control and inspection process from regular grade oxygen–free copper. Only specially selected cathode copper is used, and ingots are produced in the middle of the operating period – when conditions are most stable.
The UKLT OFE products is tested during all steps of the manufacturing process; casting, extrusion / forging, drawing and once again at the end of the process to ensure the integrity of the material. Even small impurities or defects from extrusion may cause scattering of the beam from the optical component and cause rejection after a great deal of time and effort has been spent.