September 2025 - Sequoia Brass and Copper

OFE Copper (C10100): The Purest Copper for High-Performance Needs

September 11, 2025 11:14 am Leave a Comment

Certain high-performance applications demand material purity. OFE copper (C10100), also known as oxygen-free electronic (OFE) copper, is a premium-quality copper alloy known for its remarkable electrical and thermal conductivity, strength, and purity.

With a copper content of 99.99% and an oxygen level of less than 0.0005%, OFE copper is engineered in tightly controlled, oxygen-free environments to maintain the highest possible quality. The resulting material achieves a 101% IACS rated conductivity and excels in demanding environments like aerospace, electronics, and precision manufacturing.

Here, we’ll discuss what makes C10100 copper so unique, where it is used, and how to choose the right copper supplier for your next project.

What Makes OFE Copper (C10100) Unique?

C10100 oxygen-free high conductivity copper (OFHC) is produced using a specialized refining process that converts high-purity castings and cathodes into copper without introducing oxygen or other impurities. It’s a careful process that guarantees there are no contaminants to interfere with the copper’s natural conductivity or strength.

With its purity, oxygen-free copper has all the best qualities of regular copper and elevates them, offering:

Strong thermal and electrical performance
Dynamic ductility and impact strength
Outstanding stability in high-vacuum environments
Exceptional weldability, solderability, and brazing ability
Long-lasting corrosion resistance

For applications where conductivity, longevity, and precision are priorities, C101 copper is ideal. OFE copper delivers reliability at any scale, from microwave tubes to large-scale industrial machinery.

OFE Copper (C10100) Applications

Aerospace and Automotive

OFE copper is great for mission-critical aerospace systems because it remains stable under pressure and conducts electricity well. In automobiles, it’s used in rectifiers and connectors thanks to its reliable performance and resistance to rust.

Electronics and Electrical Systems

OFE copper is a popular material for making electronic parts, such as transistors, conductors, vacuum seals, and high-frequency setups. Its excellent conductivity helps keep signal loss low, which is important for high-tech and telecom industries.

Precision Manufacturing

Thanks to its machinable and high-purity nature, C101 copper is a top pick for high-precision applications like cleanroom manufacturing. The material is easy to shape without losing its strength, which makes it perfect for precision components.

How to Choose a Trusted OFE Copper Supplier

Choosing a reliable copper supplier is just as important as choosing the right material. High-purity OFE copper requires strict manufacturing standards and quality assurance.

Here are a few things to look for:

Quality assurance. Suppliers should have certifications like ISO 9001:2015 and comply with ASTM International. Their material traceability protocols should meet or exceed industry requirements.
Experience and knowledge. Work with a supplier who understands copper alloys, especially specialty types like C10100, and can help match your needs to the right product.
Customer support. Great suppliers are also great partners. They offer technical guidance, custom sizing, and responsive communication to support your project from start to finish.

A strong supplier relationship can reduce lead times, improve consistency, and even help optimize your material costs over time.

Why Sequoia Brass & Copper Is the Right Choice for OFE Copper

Since 1983, Sequoia Brass & Copper has delivered premium nonferrous metals to industries across North America. Whether you’re developing aerospace components, upgrading high-end electronics, or crafting ultra-precise parts, we offer the experience and inventory to help you succeed.

We stock a wide range of OFE copper (C10100) and other copper alloys in various sizes and forms, including plate, sheet, and bar. Our team can help you find the right materials for your performance-critical applications.