Designation: B49 − 15

Standard Specification for

Copper Rod for Electrical Purposes1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation B49; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of original
adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A superscript
epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.

1. Scope* B577 Test Methods for Detection of Cuprous Oxide (Hydro-

1.1 This specification covers the requirements for rod in gen Embrittlement Susceptibility) in Copper
diameters from 1⁄4 to 13⁄8 in. (6.4 to 35 mm) produced from B846 Terminology for Copper and Copper Alloys
high conductivity coppers listed in Table 1, namely, electrolytic E8/E8M Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Ma-
tough-pitch or oxygen-free coppers and are suitable for further terials
fabrication into electrical conductors. E18 Test Methods for Rockwell Hardness of Metallic Ma-
terials
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded E29 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical Determine Conformance with Specifications
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only E53 Test Method for Determination of Copper in Unalloyed
and are not considered standard. Copper by Gravimetry
1.3 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to E478 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Copper Alloys
Section13. This standard does not purport to address all of the E1606 Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy-Current) Exami-
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the nation of Copper Redraw Rod for Electrical Purposes
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- E2575 Test Method for Determination of Oxygen in Copper
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica- and Copper Alloys
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. 2.3 Other Document:3
NBS Handbook 100 Copper Wire Tables
2. Referenced Documents
3. Terminology
2.1 The following documents in the current issue of the
Book of Standards form a part of this specification to the extent 3.1 For definitions of general terms relating to copper and
referenced herein and define materials suitable for use in rod copper alloys refer to Terminology B846.
manufacture:
4. Ordering Information
2.2 ASTM Standards:2
B5 Specification for High Conductivity Tough-Pitch Copper 4.1 Orders for rod under this specification shall include the
Refinery Shapes following information:
B115 Specification for Electrolytic Copper Cathode 4.1.1 ASTM designation and year of issue,
B170 Specification for Oxygen-Free Electrolytic Copper— 4.1.2 Quantity of each size,
Refinery Shapes 4.1.3 UNS designation and requirements of copper (Sec-
B193 Test Method for Resistivity of Electrical Conductor tions 5 – 10),
Materials 4.1.4 Finish (Sections 9 and 10),
B224 Classification of Coppers 4.1.5 Package with or without joints (see 5.3),
4.1.6 Rod diameter (see 9.2),
4.1.7 Inspection (Section 15),
4.1.8 Package size (see 19.1), and
1
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee B05 on Copper 4.1.9 Special package marking as agreed upon between the
and Copper Alloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee B05.07 on
Refined Copper. manufacturer and the purchaser (Section 19).
Current edition approved May 1, 2015. Published May 2015. Originally 4.2 The following requirements are optional and should be
approved in 1923. Last previous edition approved in 2010 as B49 – 10. DOI:
10.1520/B0049-15. specified in the contract or purchase order when required.
2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
3
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on Available from National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5301 Shawnee
the ASTM website. Rd., Alexandria, VA 22312, http://www.ntis.gov.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

1
 B49 − 15
TABLE 1 Chemical CompositionA 6.3 Silver-bearing tough-pitch copper corresponds to the
UNS Number C11040 C10100 C10200 C11000 designation STP (silver-bearing tough-pitch) as shown in
Copper Type ETP OFEB OFC ETP
Classification B224 and to coppers having UNS Nos. C11300,
Copper, min 99.90 %D 99.99 %D 99.95 %E 99.90 %E
incl silver incl silver C11400, C11500, and C11600.
ppm ppm ppm ppm
Tellurium, max 2 2 ... ...
6.4 Oxygen Content—Oxygen-free copper as described
Selenium, max 2 3 ... ... herein is defined as a copper containing not in excess of
Bismuth, max 1.0 1.0 ... ... 0.0010 % (10 ppm) oxygen and produced without the use of
Group total, max 3 ... ... ...
Antimony, max 4 4 ... ... metallic or other deoxidizers.
Arsenic, max 5 5 ... ...
Tin, max 5 2 ... ... 7. Physical Property Requirements
Lead, max 5 5 ... ...
Iron, max 10 10 ... ... 7.1 Electrical Resistivity—Resistivity of the copper in the
Nickel, max 10 10 ... ...
Sulfur, max 15 15 ... ...
annealed condition (See Note X1.1) shall not exceed the
Silver, max 25 25 ... ... following values at 20°C:
Oxygen 100–650 5 max 10 max ...
Resistivity, max, at 20°C
Maximum 65F ... ... ... Type of Copper
Annealed, Ω · g/m2
allowable
total
UNS C10100 only 0.15176 (101.00 % IACS min)
Cadmium, max ... 1 ... ...
All others 0.15328 (100.00 % IACS min)
Phosphorus, max ... 3 ... ...
Zinc, max ... 1 ... ...
Manganese, max ... 0.5 ... ... 8. Mechanical Property Requirements
A
See 13.1.2.
8.1 Tensile Tests—Rod finished by hot working or annealing
B
From B170 Grade 1 copper or equivalent. shall have a minimum elongation of 30 % in 10 in. (250 mm).
C
D
From B170 Grade 2 copper or equivalent. (Note X1.2 and Test Methods E8/E8M.)
By difference. See 13.1.2 and 13.1.3.
E
See 13.1.1. 8.2 Torsion (Twist) Tests—Torsion tests are not a require-
F
Not including oxygen. ment of this specification. However, a discussion will be found
in Note X1.3.

4.2.1 Certification (Section 17) and 8.3 Embrittlement (Bend) Test:

4.2.2 Test Report (Section 18). 8.3.1 A test to reflect propensity towards hydrogen em-
brittlement shall be performed only on oxygen-free copper.
5. Material and Manufacture 8.3.2 The specimen shall be tested in accordance with 13.6
5.1 The rod shall be fabricated from copper of such quality and Specification B170.
and purity that the finished product shall have the properties 8.3.3 The specimen, prepared and tested from the OFE
and characteristics prescribed in this specification. (oxygen-free electronic) copper (UNS C10100) listed in Table
1, shall withstand without breaking into two pieces, a minimum
NOTE 1—The following specifications define materials suitable for use: of ten (10) reverse bends.
Specification B5, or Specification B115, or Specification B170.
8.3.4 The specimen, prepared and tested from the OF
5.2 Copper of special qualities, forms, or types, as agreed (oxygen-free) copper (UNS C10200) listed in Table 1, shall
upon between the manufacturer and the purchaser and that will withstand, without breaking into two pieces, a minimum of
conform to the requirements prescribed in this specification eight (8) reverse bends.
may also be used.
8.4 Annealability—Annealability is not a requirement of
5.3 The rod coils shall be furnished in continuous lengths this specification. However, a discussion will be found in Notes
with or without joints, as ordered. X1.4-X1.6.
6. Chemical Composition
9. Other Requirements
6.1 Each rod type shall conform to the chemical composi-
tion requirements prescribed in Table 1 for the type of copper 9.1 Surface Oxide—The surface oxide film thickness shall
ordered (Section 5). be determined in accordance with 13.5.
9.1.1 Total thickness of the copper oxide film on cleaned
6.2 By agreement between the manufacturer and the
copper rod or annealed shaved rod or cold-finished rod shall
purchaser, the addition of silver up to an average of 30 troy oz
not exceed 750 Å (7.5 × 10−8 m).
per short ton of copper (0.10 %) will be considered within the
9.1.2 The residual oxide film thickness on as-shaved rod
specification, copper including silver in the chemical analysis,
does not need to be specified.
with no individual silver analysis to exceed 35 troy oz per short
ton (0.12 %). In the case of oxygen-free silver-bearing coppers, 9.1.3 A surface oxide requirement is not necessary for rod
the designation OFS (oxygen-free, silver-bearing) will be used ordered uncleaned.
as shown in Classification B224 and will include the UNS Nos. 9.2 Diameter—The diameter of the rod at any point shall not
C10400, C10500, and C10700 as defined by the agreed silver vary from that specified by more than the amounts prescribed
content. in Table 2.

2
 B49 − 15
TABLE 2 Permissible Variations in Diameter 12.1.1 Chemical Analysis—Chemical composition shall be
Nominal Diameter, in. (mm)
Permissible Variation, determined in accordance with the element mean of the results
in. (mm) from at least two replicate analyses of the sample(s).
⁄ (6.4)
14 +0.020 (+0.51)
12.1.2 Other Tests:
−0.010 (−0.25)
Over ⁄ (6.4) to ⁄ in. (19 mm) incl.
14 34 ±0.015 (±0.38) 12.1.2.1 Electrical Resistivity, Tensile Elongation,
Over 3⁄4 (19) to 1.0 in. (25 mm) incl. ±0.020 (±0.51) Diameter, and Surface Oxide—Results shall be reported as the
Over 1.0 (25) to 13 ⁄8 in. (35 mm) incl. ±0.030 (±0.76)
average obtained from at least two test specimens, each taken
from a separate test piece where possible.
TABLE 3 Equivalent Resistivity ValuesA
12.1.2.2 Hydrogen Embrittlement Test and Microscopical
Conductivity at 68°F (20°C), % IACS 100.00 101.00
Examination—All specimens tested must meet the require-
Ω · lb/mile2 875.20 866.53 ments of the specification.
Ω · g/m2 0.153 28 0.151 76
Ω · c mil/ft 10.371 10.268 12.2 Retests:
Ω · mm2/m 0.017 241 0 0.017 070 12.2.1 When requested by the manufacturer or supplier, a
µΩ · in. 0.678 79 0.672 07
µΩ · cm 1.7241 1.7070
retest shall be permitted when results of tests obtained by the
A
purchaser fail to conform to the requirements of the product
The equivalent resistivity values for 100 % IACS (soft copper) were each
computed from the fundamental IEC value (1/58 Ω · mm2/m) using conversion specification.
factors each accurate to at least seven significant figures. 12.2.2 The retest shall be as directed in the product speci-
fication for the initial test except the number of test specimens
shall be twice that normally required for the specified test.
12.2.3 All test specimens shall conform to the product
9.3 Electromagnetic (Eddy-current) Examination—Electro- specification requirement(s) in retest. Failure to conform shall
magnetic examination of copper redraw rod is not a require- be cause for rejection.
ment of this specification. If it is performed for detecting
surface discontinuities, however, a discussion will be found in 13. Test Methods
Note X1.7.
13.1 Chemical Analysis:
10. Workmanship, Finish, and Appearance 13.1.1 In case of dispute, copper content of the coppers
other than UNS C10100 and UNS C11040 in Table 1 shall be
10.1 The rod shall be free of defects, but blemishes of a
determined in accordance with Test Method E53.
nature that do not interfere with the intended application are
13.1.2 Analytical method for determining impurity levels of
acceptable.
coppers listed in Table 1 shall be in accordance with Specifi-
11. Sampling cation B115.
13.1.3 Copper content of UNS C10100 and UNS C11040
11.1 Routine Sampling—For the routine analysis of copper types shall be calculated by subtracting from 100 % the total
rod coils, the methods of sampling shall be at the discretion of impurity concentration determined. The impurity total for UNS
the tester. C10100 is defined as the sum of sulfur, silver, lead, tin,
11.2 This procedure shall be used in case of rod dispute bismuth, arsenic, antimony, iron, nickel, zinc, phosphorus,
between the manufacturer and the purchaser. selenium, tellurium, manganese, cadmium, and oxygen present
11.2.1 A lot shall be considered as a single coil of finished in the sample. The impurity total for UNS C11040 is defined as
rod. A minimum of two samples of sufficient length shall be the sum of sulfur, silver, lead, tin, bismuth, arsenic, antimony,
taken from the suspected non-conforming rod coil for re- iron, nickel, selenium, tellurium, and oxygen present in the
testing. Samples may be taken from either end of the rod coil sample.
at the discretion of the tester. Specific numbers and locations 13.1.4 The test methods annex of Specification B170 should
shall be determined between the producer and user. If the test be referenced for the oxygen-free coppers. Test Methods E478
pieces from both test samples pass the appropriate test(s), then should be referenced for the determination of silver-bearing
the coil shall be deemed to conform to the particular require- alloys permitted under this specification.
ment(s) of the standard. If a test piece fails a test, the rod coil 13.1.5 Oxygen content shall be determined on cleaned
represented in the shipping lot shall be deemed not to conform copper samples using a suitable laboratory apparatus or a
to this standard. commercial instrument designed specifically for this purpose.
11.2.2 A shipping lot shall be the quantity of rod in coil Test Method E2575 shall be referenced to determine oxygen
form that is present in a single container, such as a truck or content in copper and copper alloys only for the range 5 to 400
railroad car. ppm since standards have not been developed above this range.
11.3 When a cast refinery shape has been chemically 13.2 Tensile Elongation—Elongation shall be determined as
analyzed and converted into rod without remelting, further the permanent increase in length, caused by breaking of the rod
chemical analysis shall not be required. in tension, measured between gage marks placed originally 10
in. (250 mm) apart upon the test specimen (Note X1.2). The
12. Number of Tests and Retests fracture shall be between gage marks and not closer than 1 in.
12.1 Tests: (25 mm) to either gage mark.

3
 B49 − 15
13.3 Electrical Resistivity: supply or a coulometer. A discussion on means to help improve
13.3.1 At the option of the manufacturer, electrical resistiv- accuracy and repeatability of this test method will be found in
ity shall be determined in accordance with 13.3.2 or 13.3.3. Note X1.8.
However, in case of dispute, 13.3.2 shall apply. 13.5.2 Each of the oxides found on copper, namely cuprous
13.3.2 Resistance measurements (Note X1.1) shall be made and cupric, are reduced sequentially to copper at different
on specimens of the rod after cleaning and processing down to reduction potentials, and the voltages are to be recorded against
a diameter of approximately 0.080 in. (2.0 mm) and annealing time during the entire test. When the individual reactions
at approximately 932°F (500°C) for 30 min. Other equivalent between the oxides and hydrogen ions are complete, gaseous
annealing methods may be used. Test specimens processed to hydrogen is evolved and may be seen visually at the surface of
a diameter other than 0.080 in. may be used if agreed upon the copper rod sample.
between the manufacturer and the purchaser. 13.5.3 A typical curve of voltage versus time is presented in
13.3.3 Resistance measurements may be determined on Fig. 2. Cuprous oxide is reduced initially. When this reaction is
specimens of the rod after cleaning, but without further complete, reduction of the cupric oxide occurs at a higher
processing and annealing. However, in the event of failure of a voltage.
rod specimen to conform to the criteria of 7.1, a retest is 13.5.4 Thickness of each oxide present shall be calculated
permitted using the procedure of 13.3.2. as follows:
13.3.4 Electrical resistivity shall be determined in accor-
dance with Test Method B193 except that when the option of ItM
13.3.3 is elected, the plus and minus tolerance for the cross- T5 (1)
Sd Fn
sectional area as specified in Test Method B193 shall not apply.
where:
13.4 Diameter—Diameter of the rod shall be measured with
a suitable measuring device, micrometer, caliper or other, T = oxide thickness, cm;
reading at least to the nearest 0.001 in. (0.02 mm). I = current, A;
t = time of reaction, s;
13.5 Surface Oxide: M = molecular weight of the oxide, g;
13.5.1 The thickness and type of unreduced oxide films S = surface area of immersed sample, cm2;
remaining on the surface of rod after cleaning shall be d = oxide density (6.0 g/cm3 for Cu2O and 6.4 g/cm3 for
determined by an electrolytic reduction method. This test shall CuO);
be performed by reducing the surface oxide(s) to copper in an F = Faraday constant, 96 500 C; and
electrolytic cell.4 As shown by the schematic diagram in Fig. 1, n = hydrogen equivalent (2).
the test sample is made cathodic with respect to an anode, 13.6 Hydrogen Embrittlement Susceptibility:
which shall be made from a platinum wire or an equivalent
inert electrode. Current shall be supplied from a dc power

4
For a description of a similar, yet alternative standard procedure to determine
tarnish films on coupons exposed to environmental tests, see “Monitoring Environ-
mental Tests by Coulometric Reduction of Metallic Control Samples,” Journal of
Testing and Evaluation, 1989, pp. 357-367, ASTM. Also refer to “The Role of
Surface Oxide and Its Measurement in the Copper Wire Industry,” Wire Journal,
March 1977, pp. 50-57, and “Analysis and Automation of Copper Surface Oxide
Measurement,” Wire Journal, February 1999, pp. 90-97, and “New Developments in
Rod Surface Measurement and Analysis,” Wire Journal, December, 2009, pp. 72-78.

FIG. 1 Schematic Illustration Showing Electrolytic Reduction FIG. 2 Typical Voltage-Time Curve for the Reduction
Test Method of Copper Oxide Films

4
 B49 − 15
13.6.1 The specimen of oxygen-free copper rod shall be 16.2 Rehearing—As a result of product rejection, the manu-
drawn into 0.080-in. (2.03-mm) diameter wire, annealed in an facturer or supplier may make claim for retest to be conducted
atmosphere containing not less than 10 % of hydrogen for 30 by the manufacturer or supplier and the purchaser. Samples of
min at 1560 6 45°F (850 6 25°C) and cooled quickly in the the rejected product shall be taken in accordance with the
same atmosphere, or without undue exposure to air, quenched product specification and tested by both parties as directed in
into water. Each specimen shall undergo the bend test in the product specification, or alternatively upon agreement by
accordance with 13.6.2. both parties, an independent laboratory may be selected for the
13.6.2 The specimen (13.6.1) shall be lightly clamped tests using the test methods prescribed in the product specifi-
between jaws with edges having a radius of 0.200 in. (5.1 mm), cation.
bent by hand over one edge of the jaws through an angle of
17. Certification
90°, and returned to its original position. This constitutes a
second bend. Each successive bend shall be made in the 17.1 When specified in the contract or purchase order, the
opposite direction from the previous bend (see Test Methods purchaser shall be furnished certification representative of the
B577). shipping lot indicating that requirements have been met as
directed by this specification.
14. Significance of Numerical Limits 18. Test Report
14.1 Calculated values shall be rounded to the nearest unit 18.1 When specified in the contract or purchase order, a
in the last right hand significant digit used in expressing the report of test results shall be furnished.
limiting value in accordance with the rounding-off method in
Practice E29. 19. Packaging and Package Marking
19.1 Package size shall be agreed upon between the manu-
15. Inspection facturer and the purchaser and shall be stated in the order.
15.1 All inspections and tests shall be made at the place of 19.2 The rod shall be packaged and protected against
manufacture unless otherwise agreed upon between the manu- damage from normal handling and shipping as is consistent
facturer and the purchaser at the time of purchase. The with good commercial practice.
manufacturer shall afford the inspector representing the pur- 19.3 Individual coils without joints and with a net mass
chaser all reasonable facilities to satisfy him that the material greater than 3000 lb (1400 kg) shall be marked or otherwise
being furnished is in accordance with this specification. identified with the following:
19.3.1 Coil production number,
16. Rejection and Rehearing 19.3.2 Net weight, and
16.1 Rejection: 19.3.3 Manufacturer’s name, brand, or trademark.
16.1.1 Product that fails to conform to the requirements of 19.4 Marking for coils other than described in 19.3 shall be
the product specification may be rejected. agreed upon between the manufacturer and the purchaser.
16.1.2 Rejection shall be reported to the manufacturer, or
supplier, promptly and in writing. 20. Keywords
16.1.3 In case of disagreement or dissatisfaction with the 20.1 cathode; copper rod; electrical conductors; electrolytic
results of the test upon which rejection was based, the tough-pitch copper; oxygen-free copper; shaving; subsurface
manufacturer or supplier may make claim for a rehearing. oxides; uniform surface oxides

APPENDIX

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. EXPLANATORY INFORMATION

NOTE X1.1—Relationships that may be useful in connection with the contained in NBS Handbook 100. The use of five significant figures in
values of electrical resistivity prescribed in this specification are shown in expressing resistivity does not imply the need for greater accuracy of
Table 3. Resistivity units are based on the International Annealed Copper measurement than that specified in Test Method B193. The use of five
Standards (IACS) adopted by IEC in 1913, which is 1/58 Ω · mm2/m at significant figures is required for reasonably accurate reversible conver-
20°C for 100 % conductivity. The value of 0.017 241 Ω · mm2/m and the sion from one set of resistivity units to another. The equivalent resistivity
value of 0.153 28 Ω · g m2 at 20°C are, respectively, the international values in Table 3 were derived from the fundamental IEC value (1/58 Ω
equivalent of volume and weight resistivity of annealed copper equal (to · mm2/m) computed to seven significant figures and then rounded to five
five significant figures) to 100 % conductivity. The latter term means that significant figures.
a copper wire 1 m in length and weighing 1 g would have a resistance of NOTE X1.2—In general, tested values of elongation are reduced with
0.153 28 Ω. This is equivalent to a resistivity value of 875.20 Ω · lb/mile2, increased speed of the moving head of the testing machine in the tension
which signifies the resistance of a copper wire 1 mile in length weighing testing of copper wire and rod. In the case of tests on soft or annealed
1 lb. It is also equivalent, for example, to 1.7241 µΩ/cm of length of a copper rod, however, the effects of speed of testing are not pronounced. In
copper bar 1 cm2 in cross section. A complete discussion of this subject is tests of soft rod made at speeds not greater than 12 in./min (300 mm/min),

5
 B49 − 15
the values obtained for elongation are not affected to any practical extent MPa (1000 psi). The wire shall be wound into a spiral by rotating the
(see Test Methods E8/E8M). mandrel at a speed of approximately 50 r/min, taking special care that
NOTE X1.3—Torsion tests are widely used by producers and users. each turn of the spiral touches the preceding one, that the turns are not
Because of the uncertain correlation with performance, and the subjective pressed into place, that handling is kept to a minimum, and that the wire
aspect of interpretation, these tests should only be used as an indicator of is wound in the same direction that it was previously coiled.
in-house process control. Therefore, no standardized test is recommended. Although the length between gage marks on the spiral is approximately
NOTE X1.4—Annealability by Hardness Tests—A rod sample of suit- 28 mm, this distance shall be measured to the nearest 1 mm, and recorded
able length shall be cut from each end of a coil lot. The as-received sample as the initial value “10.”
shall be cold rolled to a flat section, so that the thickness is equal to 30 % The spiral of wire shall then be removed from the mandrel, carefully
of the original rod diameter. No edge rolling is required. The flattened fastened at one end, and loaded axially at the other (lower) end with the
copper shall be heated at 527 6 2°F (275 6 1°C) for 15 min in a constant same 2.240-kg weight as that used in the aforementioned coil winding
temperature bath and quenched immediately into water at ambient operation.
temperature. Other temperatures and times may be used by special The weight shall be supported initially with a platform and loaded onto
agreement between the manufacturer and purchaser. Hardness shall be the spiral uniformly and smoothly by either of two methods, namely: (a)
measured along the center line of the annealed specimen using the lowering the platform supporting the weight or (b) raising the upper end
Rockwell F scale, in accordance with Test Methods E18. of the spiral at a rate such that the stretching of the spiral does not exceed
NOTE X1.5—Annealability by Torsion (Spiral Elongation)—The spiral 20 cm/s.
elongation test described herewith is used only for testing high conduc- After 1 min of free suspension, the weight is manually removed in a
tivity copper that is sampled at the rod stage and does not address the very careful manner and the elongated spiral is allowed to relax by placing
quality of copper wire selected at later stages of commercial processing. it on a table for an additional period of 1 min. Note that the load is not to
Copper wire is initially given a low temperature anneal under tightly be removed by either raising the platform or lowering the upper end of the
controlled conditions, subsequently wound into a spiral (helical configu- spiral. The extended length of the spiral between gage marks shall be
ration) under tensile load, and then stretched axially by a weight of measured to the nearest 1 mm and called “1f.” The spiral elongation value,
specified mass. The change in length measured after the weight is in millimetres, is calculated as the difference lf − l0.
removed, and the spiral has relaxed, is considered as a measure of This same procedure shall be repeated on two additional spirals of wire
softness. from the same coil, and the average value obtained from three separate
Rod Treatment—A rod sample of suitable length shall be cut from the spirals shall be referred to as the “Spiral Elongation Number.”
end of a coil lot, and if necessary, reduced to a diameter of either 0.25 in., NOTE X1.6—Annealability (General)—Although five different basic
+0.020 −0.010 (6.35 mm +0.50 −0.25) or 0.315 6 0.015 in. (8.00 6 0.40 types of test methods have been reported in the literature for measuring the
mm) by cold drawing. This sample shall either be annealed or not annealability of wirebar or rod, numerous variations and perturbations
annealed according to the following circumstances: exist. For a more thorough description of these tests, refer to the Journal
(a) No annealing treatment will be performed if the copper is processed of Testing and Evaluation.5 Inasmuch as hardness and torsional measure-
according to a specific manufacturing schedule. ments are frequently used, detailed procedures are contained in Notes
(b) The sample shall be subjected to an annealing treatment if it is X1.4 and X1.5. Softening values for low temperature annealing copper
desired to compare samples produced via different manufacturing routes. and for other types of copper rods, if requested, shall be decided upon
Under these circumstances, the rod sample shall be annealed under normal between the producer and the user.
atmosphere for 1 h at 700°C 6 20 (1256 to 1328°F) and then quenched NOTE X1.7—Electromagnetic (Eddy-Current) Examination—Non-
into water or a dilute (10 % v/v) sulfuric acid solution at ambient destructive methods for locating surface discontinuities or imperfections
temperature. Copper oxide scale shall be removed in a 10 % v/v volume in copper redraw rod are widely used by both producers and users. A
per volume, sulfuric acid bath and thoroughly washed to remove loose detailed description of the procedures that could be followed is found in
scale or adhering copper dust. Practice E1606. This practice covers electromagnetic (eddy-current)
Preparation of Wire for Spiral Elongation Test—The rod sample shall examination of redraw rod that is made from tough-pitch or oxygen-free
be drawn into a 2.00-mm (0.080 in. 6 0.01) diameter wire in a series of coppers in diameters from 1⁄4 to 1 3⁄8 in. (6.4 to 35 mm) and that are
passes, each of which shall reduce the cross-sectional area of the suitable for further fabrication into electrical conductors. Examination is
conductor by 20 to 25 %. achieved by passing the rod lengthwise through a stationary encircling
Particular care should be taken to avoid excessive heating of the copper annular test coil that is energized with alternating current at a fixed
during drawing. For example, the wire shall either be allowed to cool for frequency. As the rod is passed through the coil, electrical impedance
5 min between passes or quenched to ambient temperature after each pass. changes are caused by such variables as rod vibrations, electrical
In addition, drawing speed should not exceed 60 m/min (200 ft/min), and conductivity differences, dimensional changes, and mechanical disconti-
the drawn wire shall be wound into a coil having a minimum diameter of nuities on the rod surface. Deep seated defects are not detected by this test
200 mm. method.
After drawing, a coil of the wire shall be formed by winding the Test coils induce eddy currents in the moving rod and also sense
conductor around a mandrel having a minimum diameter of 200 mm (7.87 changes in electrical characteristics of the rod. Their diameters should
in.). The copper coil shall then be removed from the mandrel, heated for allow the largest practical fill factor, which is oftentimes greater than
2 h at 392 6 1°F (200 6 0.5°C), in a constant temperature bath, and 60 %. The electrical apparatus energizes these test coils with alternating
cooled immediately to ambient temperature. currents having frequencies usually in the range from 1 kHz to 1 MHz.
Temperature of the copper wire must be kept uniform and measured Artificial discontinuity standards can be used for adjusting the sensitivity
quite accurately. Since good temperature control is extremely important, setting of the apparatus. They should be processed from mechanically
thermocouples should be placed at strategic locations throughout the shaved or machined copper rods that are similar to typical production lots.
annealing device. It is recommended that an 8-mm-diameter dummy rod Artificial discontinuities should be small holes drilled radially, transverse
sample be formed into a 200-mm-diameter ring and placed in the constant notches, or other contours. They are not meant to be indicative of natural
temperature bath at the same position normally occupied by the test wire. discontinuities, but only used for establishing levels of sensitivity. It
Using a thermocouple embedded in the rod to a depth equal to the radius, should be noted that sensitivity control settings are arbitrary and may vary
temperature should reach the annealing temperature within a 5-min from instrument to instrument of the same design and manufacturer. A
period. suggested instrument that can be used for passing the artificial disconti-
Test Procedures—A 1400-mm-long test sample is cut from the nuity standards through a stationary test coil with a reciprocating motion
annealed coil of wire. Using an indelible marking tool, a 1000-mm gage is shown in Practice E1606. It should be constructed to minimize
length is marked over the midlength of the copper wire. One end of the
test sample is firmly secured to the end of a polished mandrel whose axis
is horizontal and which has a diameter of 20 6 0.01 mm. A 2.240-kg load 5
Joint B-1 and B-2 Task Group, “The Annealability Testing of Copper,” Journal
is suspended from the free end of the wire, thereby inducing a stress of 7 of Testing and Evaluation, Vol 1, No. 1, ASTM, 1973.

6
 B49 − 15
vibrations and to allow the standard to pass through the center of the coil sample should be thoroughly cleaned to prevent contamination of the
in a straight line. electrolyte. This procedure is particularly important if the rod is acid
NOTE X1.8—Surface Oxide Testing—The Surface Oxide test measures pickled, since the test is very sensitive to pH.
multiple factors and combines them into one number. The two most (6) Physical Calibration—Studies using copper foil, which acts as a
influential of these factors are the uniform surface oxide (USO) thickness secondary standard and changes negligibly over time when properly
and the degree to which detrimental subsurface oxides (SSOs) are present stored, can be performed in the laboratory to determine the number of tests
in the sample. The latter can be considered a production defect since poor that can be run before readings change, which is a factor that depends
drawability, excessive fines generation, and wire breaks may occur if upon the cell volume, the cleaning practice for test samples, and the
subsurface oxides (SSOs) are present in the hot-rolled rod. SSOs may surface area under test. Foil testing can also be used to check proper
occur if the high pressure descaler does not adequately remove the oxide operation of the tester, compare two different testers, and gage R&R
scale in the roughing mill and some of this oxide becomes embedded in testing for quality control.
the rod by rolls downstream from the descaler. They can also occur if hot (7) Electrolyte Renewal—Electrolyte quality has a significant effect on
cracks occur in the cast bar or if there are fold overs of bar corners. To the test results, inasmuch as contamination or depleted electrolyte tends to
improve quality and reduce costs, it may be extremely important to reduce the reduction efficiency.
determine if high surface oxide test results are caused by either high The following methods can be used to determine when subsurface
uniform surface oxides (USOs) or by the presence of SSOs, and methods oxides are present:
for doing so will be listed in the latter. (1) Twist Testing Combined with Surface Oxide Testing—Torsional
Many different process and operating variables can impair the accuracy twist testing of rod introduces stresses on the surface that may produce
and repeatability of the test that is used to measure the uniform surface cracks and open-up fissures near the brittle SSOs. Exposure of these
oxide (USO) film thickness on copper rod or wire. The most significant oxides to the electrolyte will increase the value of the cupric oxide (CuO)
test parameters are as follows: constituent compared with the untwisted rod, while at the same time the
(1) Current Density—This property is calculated by taking the constant cuprous oxide (Cu2O) value remains nearly constant. The optimum degree
test current and dividing it by the surface area of the sample exposed to the
of twisting exposes SSOs without causing excessive exfoliation of oxides
electrolyte. Current density is a very important factor when SSOs are
on the rod surface. Prior research on 8 mm rod has shown that a 5 by 5
present or if the electrolyte is bad. However, under ideal conditions it is a
twist test is the optimum level to be performed prior to surface oxide
negligible factor. The test takes more time to complete as the current
testing.
density is decreased, but at the same time accuracy and repeatability are
(2) High Variability of Test Results—Inasmuch as SSOs are usually
improved. As a compromise between attaining practical (short) laboratory
test times while not losing extreme accuracy, a current density in the range periodic in nature, overall surface oxide results often display high
between 0.15 and 0.55 milliamperes per square centimeter is typically variability. Furthermore, at the temperature where SSOs are stable, the
used in the rod industry. In general, equipment is usually operated in the resulting phase is mostly cupric oxide. Whereas the cuprous oxide values
range of 1 to 20 milliamperes. from sample to sample are usually quite consistent and have a low
(2) Reference Electrode—Either saturated calomel or a silver/silver- standard deviation, high variability of test data tends to occur in the cupric
chloride configuration are often used to determine voltage. However, if the oxide measurements.
current density is maintained fairly low, there is no accuracy-based reason (3) Metallographic Examination of Samples—Although the presence of
to use a reference electrode. SSOs in rod can be detected clearly by metallographic analysis, it is
(3) Electrolyte Solution—A 0.1 molar solution of sodium carbonate has oftentimes very time consuming. Twisting of the rod may be beneficial
generally been adopted, although potassium chloride solutions are also because cracks usually form where SSOs are present. Examination of
acceptable. fines, the cast bar, wire, and a “fishpole” of the hot rolled rod can also
(4) Dissolved Oxygen in the Electrolyte—When a constant current is prove useful.
run between the anode and cathode, the anode creates oxygen. This is just (4) Use of Variable Current Densities—Testing rod that contains SSOs
one way in which dissolved oxygen enters the electrolyte. Overall test is highly influenced by current density, especially at high dissolved
efficiency is diminished and leads to artificially high surface oxide values oxygen levels in the electrolyte. Copper foil, most wires, some hot-rolled
when dissolved oxygen in the electrolyte is reduced by the hydrogen at the rods, and shaved rod samples show nearly constant surface oxide
cathode. Best results are obtained when oxygen is removed by bubbling measurements with increasing values of current density. In contrast,
nitrogen or argon gas through the electrolyte after each test run and however, these measurements increase significantly (as much as nine
electrolyte change. Since oxygen is also introduced into the electrolyte at times or higher) with increasing current density when SSOs are present. In
the end of the test when hydrogen gas is generated by electrolysis, the test large part this occurs because at high current densities the reduction rate
sample should be removed as soon as possible after bubbles are first of uniform surface oxides is faster than the rate of partially buried scale.
observed at the cathode. Some commercial surface oxide testers automati- The influence of SSOs will usually be different for different rod sources
cally reduce the current to just a sensing level when the test has stopped. since the exact geometric characteristics of these contaminants are usually
(5) Sample Cleanliness—Any residual mill or quench solution on the never the same.

7
 B49 − 15
SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee B05 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (B49 – 10)
that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved May 1, 2015.)

(1) Added Note X1.8 for surface oxide testing. (3) Added keywords “electrolytic,” “uniform surface oxides,”
(2) Removed “Drawing Stock” from Title and Scope and and “subsurface oxides.”
“redraw” from Keywords.

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