Description

Influence of residual impurities and alloying elements for both ETP and FRHC copper rod are discussed with an emphasis upon annealability and both mechanical and electrical properties. Major effects of oxygen content, thermal-mechanical processing variables, and continuous casting factors upon high-temperature embrittlement and drawability are reviewed. These copper-related factors are linked to recent changes to ASTM and European standards and are summarized with an emphasis upon fire refining and resulting rod requirements.