Copper Conductive Rod

Pure copper rod is the workhorse conductor in MV switchgear current paths, main bus, breaker conductor, terminal extensions, and the dozens of short copper segments connecting major components. We supply rod in ETP copper (C11000) for general applications and OFC copper (C10100) where impurity content matters. Both deliver near-maximum conductivity; OFC matters mostly for high-frequency or specialized welding applications, less so for MV switchgear duty.

For longer or larger conductors, see Copper Conductor Element. For CuW conductor segments (arc-exposed sections), see CuW Conductive Rod.

Specifications

Property	Value
Material	ETP copper C11000 (default); OFC copper C10100 on request
Form	Round bar (rod)
Diameter Range	Per drawing / specification
Length Range	Per drawing / specification
End Condition	Sawn (default); faced, chamfered, or plated on request
Tolerance	Standard machining tolerance
Conductivity	100% IACS (C11000) / 101% IACS (C10100) reference
Density	8.94 g/cm³
Hardness (HB)	40–90 depending on temper (annealed / half-hard / hard)
Surface Treatment	Bright-machined; silver, nickel, or tin plating optional

Exact certified properties for your lot are available with material documentation on request.

Applications

• Main bus and conductor runs in 12 / 24 / 40.5 kV MV switchgear
• Conductor segments between breaker contacts and busbar joints
• Terminal extensions and cable connection points
• Replacement copper conductor stock for refurbishment programs

Technical Notes

Copper rod for MV switchgear is sized by the rated continuous current and the joint design. Larger cross-sections handle more current with less voltage drop at junctions; smaller cross-sections cost less but generate more I²R heat. For installed switchgear refurbishment, match the original conductor dimensions. The joints, supports, and thermal allowances were designed around them.

Temper affects machinability and joint behavior. Annealed copper is easiest to machine but soft; half-hard is the common compromise; hard temper resists deformation but is harder to machine. For most MV switchgear conductor applications, half-hard is the default.

Silver plating on conductor ends reduces resistance at bolted joints over decades of service. Specify plating thickness based on joint cycle expectations.

Sourcing & OEM

Standard diameters and lengths produced to order. Custom dimensions, finishes, and end conditions per drawing. Contact us with your specification for a project-specific quote.