Ningbo Jintian Copper (Group) Co., Ltd.
Ningbo Jintian Copper (Group) Co., Ltd.

Differences Between Red Copper Rods and Tellurium Copper Rods

In modern industry and manufacturing, copper and its alloys are widely used due to their excellent electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and machinability. Red copper and tellurium copper rods are two common copper products, and they differ significantly in composition, performance, and application fields. This article will explore the differences between red copper and tellurium copper rods in detail, helping readers better understand these two materials to make the right choice in practical applications.


Differences in Composition and Basic Characteristics


Category

Red Copper Rod

Tellurium Copper Rod

Grade

T2 TU2 TP2

C14500

Characteristics

Red copper refers to copper with a very high copper content, usually above 99.9%. It is named for its reddish-purple color.

Tellurium copper is a copper alloy containing a small amount of tellurium (usually 0.4% to 0.7%).

Composition

Mainly copper, with trace impurities

Mainly copper, containing 0.4% to 0.7% tellurium

Color

Reddish-purple

Close to the red of red copper, but slightly darker

Electrical Conductivity

Extremely high conductivity (conductivity about 100% IACS)

High conductivity (conductivity about 93% IACS)

Thermal Conductivity

Extremely high thermal conductivity

High thermal conductivity, but lower than pure copper

Machinability

Good ductility and toughness, easy to cold-work and hot-work

Easier to cut and process than pure copper, suitable for high-precision machining

Corrosion Resistance

Good corrosion resistance, suitable for applications requiring long-term exposure to the atmosphere and seawater environments

The addition of tellurium has little effect on copper's corrosion resistance, still maintaining good corrosion resistance


Application Fields


Applications of Red Copper


  • Electrical and Electronic Industry: Due to its high conductivity, red copper is widely used in manufacturing wires, cables, busbars, and other conductive components.


  • Heat Exchangers: Given its high thermal conductivity, red copper is frequently used in heat exchangers and coolers.


  • Construction Industry: Used as decorative materials for roofs and walls as well as in water pipes, etc.


Applications of Tellurium Copper


  • Machining: Tellurium copper is widely used in manufacturing high-precision mechanical parts such as screws, nuts, and connectors due to its excellent cutting performance.


  • Electrical Contact Components and Switch Elements: Tellurium copper is used to manufacture electrical contact components and switch elements that operate under high current and high stress conditions.


  • Mold Materials: Used to create highly wear-resistant molds, especially plastic moulds.


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Selection Guide


When choosing between red copper or tellurium copper, it should be based on the specific application requirements and working environment:


High Conductivity and High Thermal Conductivity


If the application requires extremely high conductivity and thermal conductivity, red copper is the best choice, such as for power transmission and heat exchange equipment.


High-Precision Machining


For high-precision machining requirements, tellurium copper is a better choice due to its excellent cutting performance, such as in the manufacturing of precision mechanical parts and electrical contact components.


Cost Consideration


Red copper is generally cheaper than tellurium copper, so for applications with lower requirements for conductivity and thermal conductivity, choosing red copper is more economical.


Red copper and copper tellurium rod each have unique properties and application advantages. Understanding their differences and characteristics can help companies make the most suitable material choices in practical applications, thereby enhancing product performance and production efficiency. Jintian Copper is committed to providing customers with high-quality copper products. Whether it's red copper or tellurium copper, we can meet your various needs and help your business development. Contact us at 0574-83005999.