Enhancing the Electrical Conductivity of Electrolytic Tough Pitch Copper Rods Processed by Incremental Equal Channel Angular Pressing

Abstract

Electrolytic tough pitch copper rods were processed by Incremental Equal Channel Angular Pressing and subjected to short-term annealing. Conductivity of 94 pct IACS without significant changes in the material’s microstructure and mechanical properties, up to 130 HV0.2, was achieved, which gives a very good ratio of electrical conductivity to strength in comparison with other processing methods. The proposed method offers a solution for manufacturing rods of significant sizes with good mechanical strength and electrical conductivity.