Copper Conductor Element

Machined copper conductor elements are the near-final-shape current-path segments in MV switchgear and VCB assemblies, not rod stock, but parts machined to specific geometries: stepped diameters, threaded ends, mounting flanges, brazing-allowance shoulders. The conductor element is what fits into the assembly; the rod is the stock you machine it from.

For raw rod stock, see Copper Conductive Rod. For CuW conductor elements (arc-exposed segments), see the Copper Tungsten Series.

Specifications

Property	Value
Material	ETP copper C11000 (default); OFC copper C10100 on request
Form	Machined conductor element (stepped, flanged, threaded per drawing)
Dimensions	Per drawing
Tolerance	Per drawing
End Conditions	Faced, threaded, plated, or brazed-ready per drawing
Surface Treatment	Bright-machined; silver, nickel, or tin plating optional
Conductivity	100% IACS (C11000) / 101% IACS (C10100) reference
Density	8.94 g/cm³
Working Voltage	Common MV ratings: 12 / 24 / 40.5 kV
Working Current	Sized per cross-section and application

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

Applications

• Stepped conductor segments in VCB assemblies (12 / 24 / 40.5 kV)
• Bus-side and load-side conductor elements at breaker terminals
• Conductor segments with brazing allowance for CuW or bronze sub-assemblies
• Replacement conductor elements for installed switchgear refurbishment

Technical Notes

A conductor element typically has multiple features along its length: a mounting flange at one end, a stepped cross-section in the middle (for thermal mass or to fit through bushings), and a braze-ready face at the other end. Machining tolerances on each feature affect the part's fit in the assembly. For tight tolerances at the braze interface, specify the mating CuW or bronze part dimensions along with the conductor drawing.

For elements pre-plated at one end (for a bolted joint) and bare at the other (for brazing), the masking and process sequence matters. We can supply elements ready for downstream assembly with the plating applied per drawing.

Sourcing & OEM

Custom copper conductor elements to your drawing are routine. Specify the temper, end conditions, plating, and any brazing allowance; contact us for a project-specific quote.