ASTM B187/B187M-20

Standard Specification for Copper, Bus Bar, Rod, and Shapes and General Purpose Rod, Bar, and Shapes

ABSTRACT
This specification establishes the requirements for copper conductor bars, rods, and shapes for both electrical (bus) and general applications. Products shall be produced in tempers O60 (soft annealed), and H04 (hard). Products shall be sampled and prepared, then tested accordingly to examine their conformance to dimensional (mass, diameter, thickness, width, shape, specified and stock lengths, straightness, edge contour, and radius of edges or corners), mechanical (tensile, yield and bend strengths, elongation, Rockwell hardness, and embrittlement), electrical resistivity, and chemical composition requirements.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification2 establishes the requirements for copper conductor bar, rod, and shapes for electrical (bus) applications and rod, bar, and shapes for general applications.  
1.1.1 The products for electrical (bus) applications shall be made from the following coppers:3    
Copper UNS No.3  
Reference Designation  
C10100  
OFE  
C10200  
OF  
C10300  
OFXLP  
C10400, C10500, C10700  
OFS  
C10920, C10930, C10940  
—  
C11000  
ETP  
C11020  
FRHC  
C11300, C11400, C11500, C11600  
STP  
C12000  
DLP
1.1.1.1 The product may be furnished from any copper listed unless otherwise specified in the contract or purchase order.  
1.2 The product for general applications shall be made from any of the coppers in 1.1.1 or the following coppers:    
Copper UNS No.3  
Reference Designation  
C10800  
OFLP  
C12200  
DHP  
1.2.1 The product may be furnished from any copper listed above unless otherwise specified in the contract or purchase order. Other coppers may be used upon agreement between the supplier and purchaser.  
1.3 Units—The values stated in either inch-pound units or SI units are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text, SI units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.
Note 1: Material for hot forging will be found in Specification B124/B124M.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-May-2020
• ICS: 29.050 - Superconductivity and conducting materials
• ICS: 77.150.30 - Copper products
• Technical Committee: B05 - Copper and Copper Alloys
• Drafting Committee: B05.02 - Rod, Bar, Wire, Shapes and Forgings

Relations

• Refers: ASTM E1004-23 - Standard Test Method for Determining Electrical Conductivity Using the Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Method
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM B249/B249M-23 - Standard Specification for General Requirements for Wrought Copper and Copper-Alloy Rod, Bar, Shapes and Forgings
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023
• Refers: ASTM B124/B124M-20 - Standard Specification for Copper and Copper Alloy Forging Rod, Bar, and Shapes
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM B124/B124M-19a - Standard Specification for Copper and Copper Alloy Forging Rod, Bar, and Shapes
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM B249/B249M-19a - Standard Specification for General Requirements for Wrought Copper and Copper-Alloy Rod, Bar, Shapes and Forgings
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM B846-19a - Standard Terminology for Copper and Copper Alloys
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2019
• Refers: ASTM E2575-19 - Standard Test Method for Determination of Oxygen in Copper and Copper Alloys by Inert Gas Fusion
• Effective Date: 15-Jun-2019
• Refers: ASTM B124/B124M-19 - Standard Specification for Copper and Copper Alloy Forging Rod, Bar, and Shapes
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM B249/B249M-19 - Standard Specification for General Requirements for Wrought Copper and Copper-Alloy Rod, Bar, Shapes and Forgings
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM B577-19 - Standard Test Methods for Detection of Cuprous Oxide (Hydrogen Embrittlement Susceptibility) in Copper
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM B846-19 - Standard Terminology for Copper and Copper Alloys
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2019
• Refers: ASTM B601-18a - Standard Classification for Temper Designations for Copper and Copper Alloys—Wrought and Cast
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2018
• Refers: ASTM B249/B249M-18a - Standard Specification for General Requirements for Wrought Copper and Copper-Alloy Rod, Bar, Shapes and Forgings
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2018
• Refers: ASTM B124/B124M-18a - Standard Specification for Copper and Copper Alloy Forging Rod, Bar, and Shapes
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2018
• Refers: ASTM B124/B124M-18 - Standard Specification for Copper and Copper Alloy Forging Rod, Bar, and Shapes
• Effective Date: 15-Mar-2018

Overview

ASTM B187/B187M-20 is the international standard specification published by ASTM International for copper bus bar, rod, bar, and shapes used in both electrical (bus) and general-purpose applications. This standard outlines the requirements for the manufacture, sampling, testing, and acceptance of these copper products, ensuring high performance and quality for various industrial uses. The specification applies to copper products produced in both soft annealed and hard tempers, and it sets rigorous criteria for mechanical, physical, and chemical properties.

Key Topics

• Scope and Coverage

  • Applies to solid copper conductor bars, rods, and shapes for electrical and general applications
  • Covers multiple copper alloys, including C10100 (OFE), C10200 (OF), C11000 (ETP), and more
  • Permits materials in soft annealed (O60) and hard (H04) tempers

• Essential Requirements

  • Defines dimensional tolerances for mass, diameter, width, thickness, straightness, and shapes
  • Specifies mechanical properties such as tensile and yield strength, elongation, and Rockwell hardness
  • Sets criteria for electrical resistivity and chemical composition for optimal conductivity and performance
  • Outlines procedures for sampling, preparation, testing, and acceptance

• Testing Methods

  • Directs conformance testing for dimensional, mechanical, and electrical properties
  • Supported by referenced ASTM standards for analysis, including methods for chemical composition and embrittlement
  • Optionally includes supplementary tests for specific client or government requirements

• Order and Certification Details

  • Clarifies information required in purchase orders, including specification designation, alloy, temper, dimensions, shape, and quantity
  • Offers additional options for traceability, testing, certification, and special packaging

Applications

ASTM B187/B187M-20 copper bars, rods, and shapes are widely used across industries due to their excellent electrical and mechanical properties. Key applications include:

• Electrical Bus Bars: Used in switchgear, power distribution, substations, and panel building for conducting substantial electrical loads.
• General Engineering: Structural and mechanical parts in industrial machinery, transport systems, and architectural fixtures.
• Power Generation and Distribution: Ensures reliable conductivity, corrosion resistance, and longevity in demanding environments.
• Manufacturing: Provides raw material for finished copper parts requiring specific shapes, tempers, and performance standards.

The standard’s precise tolerances and testing requirements help manufacturers and engineers maintain consistent quality and enable traceable, certifiable supply chains for critical projects.

Related Standards

Several ASTM and other international standards are referenced or associated with ASTM B187/B187M-20 to ensure comprehensive quality control and compatibility. Notable related standards include:

• ASTM B249/B249M: General requirements for wrought copper and copper alloy rod, bar, shapes, and forgings
• ASTM B193: Test method for resistivity of electrical conductor materials
• ASTM B124/B124M: Specification for copper and copper alloy forging rod, bar, and shapes
• ASTM B577: Test methods for detection of cuprous oxide (hydrogen embrittlement susceptibility) in copper
• ASTM B900: Practice for packaging of copper and copper alloy mill products
• ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code: For applications requiring special certification
• Additional standards covering chemical analysis, alloy classification, and terminology

Practical Value

Adherence to ASTM B187/B187M-20 ensures that copper bus bars, rods, and shapes meet high standards for reliability, safety, and efficiency. Manufacturers, engineers, and buyers benefit from standardized material requirements, facilitating compatibility, safety, regulatory compliance, and optimal performance in critical electrical and structural applications.

Keywords: ASTM B187, copper bus bar, copper rod, copper shapes, electrical conductors, copper standard, UNS No. C10100, C10200, C11000, electrical copper, mechanical properties, electrical resistivity, copper specification, dimensional tolerances, ASTM copper standards.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: B187/B187M −20
Standard Specification for
Copper, Bus Bar, Rod, and Shapes and General Purpose
Rod, Bar, and Shapes
This standard is issued under the fixed designation B187/B187M; 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* system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to
2 ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be
1.1 This specification establishes the requirements for cop-
used independently of the other, and values from the two
per conductor bar, rod, and shapes for electrical (bus) applica-
systems shall not be combined.
tions and rod, bar, and shapes for general applications.
NOTE 1—Material for hot forging will be found in Specification
1.1.1 The products for electrical (bus) applications shall be
B124/B124M.
made from the following coppers:
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
Copper UNS No. Reference Designation
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
C10100 OFE
C10200 OF
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
C10300 OFXLP
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
C10400, C10500, C10700 OFS
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
C10920, C10930, C10940 —
C11000 ETP
C11020 FRHC
2. Referenced Documents
C11300, C11400, C11500, STP
C11600
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C12000 DLP
B124/B124M Specification for Copper and Copper Alloy
1.1.1.1 The product may be furnished from any copper
Forging Rod, Bar, and Shapes
listed unless otherwise specified in the contract or purchase
B170 Specification for Oxygen-Free Electrolytic Copper—
order. Refinery Shapes
B193 Test Method for Resistivity of Electrical Conductor
1.2 The product for general applications shall be made from
Materials
any of the coppers in 1.1.1 or the following coppers:
B216 Specification for Tough-Pitch Fire-Refined Copper—
Copper UNS No. Reference Designation
Refinery Shapes
C10800 OFLP
B224 Classification of Coppers
C12200 DHP
B249/B249M Specification for General Requirements for
1.2.1 The product may be furnished from any copper listed
Wrought Copper and Copper-Alloy Rod, Bar, Shapes and
above unless otherwise specified in the contract or purchase
Forgings
order. Other coppers may be used upon agreement between the
B577 Test Methods for Detection of Cuprous Oxide (Hydro-
supplier and purchaser.
gen Embrittlement Susceptibility) in Copper
B601 Classification forTemper Designations for Copper and
1.3 Units—The values stated in either inch-pound units or
Copper Alloys—Wrought and Cast
SI units are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the
B846 Terminology for Copper and Copper Alloys
text, SI units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each
B900 Practice for Packaging of Copper and Copper Alloy
Mill Products for U.S. Government Agencies
ThisspecificationisunderthejurisdictionofASTMCommitteeB05onCopper
E53 Test Method for Determination of Copper in Unalloyed
and CopperAlloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee B05.02 on Rod,
Copper by Gravimetry
Bar, Wire, Shapes and Forgings.
Current edition approved June 1, 2020. Published June 2020. Originally
approvedin1944.Lastpreviouseditionapprovedin2019asB187/B187M-19.DOI:
10.1520/B0187_B0187M-20. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
For ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code applications, see related Specifi- contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
cation SB-187 in Section II of that Code. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Refer to Practice E527 for an explanation of the Unified Numbering System. the ASTM website.
*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
B187/B187M − 20
E62 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Copper and 4.1.12 Test Reports; and
CopperAlloys (Photometric Methods) (Withdrawn 2010) 4.1.13 Packaging and Package Marking.
E255 Practice for Sampling Copper and Copper Alloys for
4.2 Identical sections in this specification supplement the
the Determination of Chemical Composition
referenced section.
E478 Test Methods for ChemicalAnalysis of CopperAlloys
E527 Practice for Numbering Metals and Alloys in the
5. Ordering Information
Unified Numbering System (UNS)
5.1 Include the following specified choices when placing
E1004 Test Method for Determining Electrical Conductivity
orders for product under this specification, as applicable:
Using the Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Method
5.1.1 ASTM specification designation and year of issue,;
E2575 Test Method for Determination of Oxygen in Copper
5.1.2 Copper UNS No. (see 7.1 and Table 1);
and Copper Alloys by Inert Gas Fusion
5.1.3 Temper required (see 8.1 and Table 2);
2.2 Other Standard:
5.1.4 Dimensions and form;
ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code
5.1.5 When product is ordered for ASME Boiler and Pres-
sure Vessel Code applications (see Section 16);
3. Terminology
5.1.6 Shapes: dimensional tolerances required and agreed
3.1 For definitions of terms related to copper and copper
upon (see 13.3);
alloys, refer to Terminology B846.
5.1.7 Quantity: number of pounds, pieces, or footage re-
quired;
3.2 Definitions:
5.1.8 Length: stock or specific (see 13.5); and
3.2.1 bus bar, n—includes material of solid rectangular or
5.1.9 When material is purchased for agencies of the U.S.
square cross section or a solid section with two plane parallel
Government (see Section 12).
surfaces and round or other simple regularly shaped edges up
to and including 12 in. in width and 0.090 in. and over in
5.2 The following options are available but may not be
thickness.
included unless specified at the time of placing of the order
when required:
3.2.2 bus conductor stock, n—a bar, rod, or shape of high
5.2.1 Heat identification or traceability details required,
conductivity copper used to make electrical conductors.
5.2.2 Hydrogen embrittlement test,
3.2.3 bus rod, n—includes solid round and regular polygons
5.2.3 Bend test,
of six and eight sides.
5.2.4 Certification,
3.2.4 bus shapes, n—a solid section other than regular rod,
5.2.5 Mill test reports,
bar, plate, sheet, strip, or flat wire, that may be oval, half oval,
5.2.6 Special packaging requirements,
half round, triangular, pentagonal, or of any special cross
5.2.7 Edges other than finished edges (see 6.2.1.2),
section furnished in straight lengths. Shapes shall not include
5.2.8 Edge contours other than square edge (see 13.7), and
tube and pipe or other hollow sections.
5.2.9 Location for the determination of the Rockwell hard-
3.3 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
ness (see 10.2.2).
3.3.1 orange peel, n—the surface roughness resulting from
6. Materials and Manufacture
working metal of large grain size. The surface is similar in
texture to that of the outside surface of an orange.
6.1 Material:
6.1.1 The materials shall conform to the published compo-
4. General Requirements
sitional requirements of the Copper or CopperAlloy UNS No.
4.1 The following sections of Specification B249/B249M designation specified in the ordering information.
are a part of this specification:
6.1.2 In the event heat identification or traceability is
4.1.1 Terminology; required, the purchaser shall specify the details desired.
4.1.2 Materials and Manufacture;
6.2 Manufacture:
4.1.3 Workmanship, Finish, and Appearance;
6.2.1 Edges:
4.1.4 Sampling;
6.2.1.1 Bar shall be furnished with finished edges (see 13.7)
4.1.5 Number of Tests and Retests;
unless otherwise specified at the time of order placement.
4.1.6 Test Methods;
6.2.1.2 Bar may be furnished with sawed edges and de-
4.1.7 Specimen Preparation;
burred corners upon agreement between the manufacturer or
4.1.8 Significance of Numerical Limits;
supplier and the purchaser (see 5.2.7).
4.1.9 Inspection;
4.1.10 Rejection and Rehearing;
7. Chemical Composition
4.1.11 Certification;
7.1 The specified copper shall conform to the chemical
requirements prescribed in Table 1.
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
7.2 These specification limits do not preclude the possible
www.astm.org.
presence of other elements. Limits for unnamed elements may
Available from American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ASME
be established and analysis required by agreement between the
International Headquarters, Two Park Ave., New York, NY 10016-5990, http://
www.asme.org. manufacturer or the supplier and the purchaser.
B187/B187M − 20
TABLE 1 Chemical Requirements
NOTE 1—If the type of silver-bearing copper is not specified (that is whether tough pitch, phosphorized, or oxygen-free), any one of the three types
may be supplied at the option of the manufacturer.
Composition % Maximum (Unless shown as a range or minimum)
Copper Copper Phos- Silver Oxygen Tellurium Tin
UNS No. (Incl. Silver) phorus
A BBBBB
C10100 99.99 min
C
C10200 99.95 min . . 0.0010 . .
D
C10300 99.95 min 0.001–0.005 . . . .
E C F
C10400 99.95 min . 8 0.0010 . .
E C F
C10500 99.95 min . 10 0.0010 . .
E C F
C10700 99.95 min . 25 0.0010 . .
D
C10800 99.95 min 0.005–0.012 . . . .
C10920 99.90 min . . 0.02 . .
F
C10930 99.90 min . 13 0.02 . .
F
C10940 99.90 min . 25 0.02 . .
G
C11000 99.90 min . . . .
G
C11020 99.90 min . . . .
H FG
C11300 99.90 min . 8 . .
H FG
C11400 99.90 min . 10 . .
H FG
C11500 99.90 min . 16 . .
H FG
C11600 99.90 min . 25 . .
C12000 99.90 min 0.004–0.012 . . . .
C12200 99.90 min 0.015–0.040 . . . .
A
Copper value is determined by the difference between the impurity total and 100 %. The copper value is exclusive of Ag.
B
Impurity maximums in ppm of C10100 shall be: antimony 4, arsenic 5, bismuth 1, cadmium 1, iron 10, lead 5, manganese 0.5, nickel 10, oxygen 5, phosphorus 3,
selenium 3, silver 25, sulfur 15, tellurium 2, tin 2, and zinc 1.
C
Copper value is determined by the difference between the impurity total and 100 %.
D
Copper (includes silver) + phosphorus, min.
E
C10400, C10500, and C10700 are oxygen-free coppers with the addition of a specified amount of silver. The compositions of these alloys are equivalent to C10200 plus
the intentional addition of silver.
F
Values are minimum silver in Troy ounces per Avoidupois ton (1 oz/ton is equivalent to 0.0034 %).
G
Oxygen and trace elements may vary depending on the process.
H
C11300, C11400, C11500, and C11600 are electrolytic tough-pitch copper with silver additions. The compositions of these alloys are equivalent to C11000 plus the
intentional addition of silver.
8. Temper 10.1.1 The bars and rod shall conform to the tensile, yield,
and elongation requirements of Table 2.
8.1 Tempers available under this specification and as de-
10.1.1.1 For shapes, the tensile requirements (if any) shall
scribed in Classification B601 are as follows:
be by agreement between the manufacturer and the purchaser.
Temper Designation
Standard Former
10.2 Rockwell Hardness:
10.2.1 Rockwell hardness tests offer a quick and convenient
O60 soft anneal
method of checking copper of any temper for general confor-
H02 half hard
H04 hard
mity to the requirements of tensile strength. The approximate
Rockwellhardnessvaluesforthespecifiedtempersaregivenin
9. Physical Property Requirements
Table 2 for general information and assistance in testing.
9.1 Electrical Resistivity—Bar, rod, and shapes of alloys
10.2.2 When specified at the time of order and as agreed to
Copper UNS Nos. C10100, C10200, C10300, C10400,
by the purchaser and supplier or manufacturer, the location for
C10500,C10700,C10920,C10930,C10940,C11000,C11020,
the determination of the Rockwell hardness may be specified.
C11300, C11400, C11500, C11600, and C12000 shall conform
to the electrical resistivity limits prescribed in Table 2 for
11. Performance Requirements
specified copper, temper, form, and size when determined in
11.1 Bending Requirements:
accordance with Test Method B193.
11.1.1 When specified in the contract or purchase order, for
9.2 Electrical Resistivity—Unless otherwise specified in the
bar, bus bar, flat wire, and rod, test specimens shall withstand
contract or ordering information, the manufacturer has the
being bent cold (right way bend) through an angle as specified
option of using Test Method E1004 to determine conformance
in Table 2 for the specified temper and size without fracture on
to the electrical resistivity limits prescribed in Table 2 for
the outside of the bent portion and with no evidence of slivers,
Copper UNS Nos. C10100, C10200, C10300, C10400,
cracks, orange peel, or similar surface defects being visible to
C10500,C10700,C10920,C10930,C10940,C11000,C11020,
the unaided eye.
C11300, C11400, C11500, C11600, and C12000. In case of
11.1.2 The bend shall be made on a radius equal to the
dispute, Test Method B193 shall be used.
minimum cross-sectional dimension of the specimen, and this
dimension shall be radial to the bend.
10. Mechanical Property Requirements
11.1.3 The axis of the bend shall be at an angle of 90° to the
10.1 Tensile Requirements: direction of rolling, drawing, or extrusion (right way bend).
B187/B187M − 20
A
TABLE 2 Mechanical (All Alloys) and Electrical Requirements (Conductor Alloys Only)
Yield
Tensile
Temper Strength,
E 2
Strength, Electrical Resistivity, Max,Ω·g/m at 20 °C [68 °F]
Designation ksi, [MPa]
B
ksi, [MPa]
C
Min
C10200,
C10400,
C10500,
Elongation
C10700, Rockwell
in 4 ×
C10920, Hardness
Diameter or Diameter Bend
C10930, F Scale,
Distance Between or Test
Standard Former Min Max Min C10100 C10940, C10300 C12000 60-kg
Parallel Surfaces, Thickness Angle of
C11000, Load,
in. of Bend °
C11020, ⁄16-in.
Specimen
C11300, Ball
D
Min. %
C11400,
C11500,
C11600
O60 Soft Rod and bar:
anneal
C
All sizes 28 [195] 37 [255] 8 [55] 25 180 0.15176 0.153 28 0.156 14 0.16661 50 max
H04 Hard Rod:
Up to ⁄8 [10] incl. 45 [310] 60 [410] — 12 120 0.15585 0.157 37 0.15940 0.17031 —
Over ⁄8 [10] to 40 [275] 55 [380] — 12 120 0.15585 0.15737 0.15940 0.17031 80 min
1 [25] incl.
Over 1 [25] to 35 [240] 50 [345] — 15 120 0.15585 0.15737 0.15940 0.17031 75 min
2 [50] incl. ······
Over 2 [50] to 33 [230] 48 [330] — 15 120 0.15425 0.15577 0.15940 0.17031 65 min
3 [75] incl.
Over 3 [75] 30 [205] 48 [330] — 15 120 0.15425 0.15577 0.15940 0.17031 —
Bar:
H02 Half Up to ⁄8 [10] incl. 37.5 [260] 50 [345] — 10 120 0.15585 0.15737 0.15940 0.17031 80 min
Hard thickness and up
to 4 [110] incl.
in width
All other sizes 33 [230] 50 [345] — 15 120 0.15425 0.15577 0.15940 0.17031 65 min
F
Channels, angles Not — 15 — 0.15425 0.15577 0.17031 —
F
and shapes established
A
See 9.1.
B
ksi = 1000 psi.
C
Light-straightening operation is permitted.
D
In any case, a minimum gage length of 1 in. shall be used.
E
See Appendix X1.
F
Special agreement shall be made between the manufacturer or supplier and the purchaser.
11.1.4 Edgewise and wrong way bend test requirements for 11.3.1 When specified in the contract or purchase order,
bar or bus bar shall be by agreement between the manufacturer Copper UNS Nos. C10100, C10200, C10300, C10400,
or supplier and the purchaser. C10500, C10700, C10800, and C12000 shall pass the em-
brittlement test described in Procedure B, Microscopical Ex-
11.2 Microscopical Examination:
amination of Thermally Treated Specimens, in Test Methods
11.2.1 Copper UNS Nos. C10100, C10200, C10300,
B577.
C10400, C10500, C10700, C10800, and C12000 shall be
11.3.2 In case of dispute, testing shall be in accordance with
substantially free of cuprous oxide as determined by Procedure
Procedure C, Closed Bend Test, of Test Methods B577.
A, Microscopical Examination, of Test Methods B577.
11.2.2 In lieu of the Microscopic examination for copper
12. Orders for U.S. Government Agencies
C10100, C10200, C10300, C10400, C10500, C10700, C10800
the manufacturer has the option to determine the actual oxygen
12.1 Orders for agencies of the U.S. Government shall
content of the copper in the final size. If the oxygen level is
conform to the special government requirements stipulated in
equal to or less than 10 ppm, then it is considered free of
the Supplemental Requirements section.
cuprous oxide. For Copper C12000 when phosphorus content
is within the specification (0.004 and 0.012 %) it should be
13. Dimensions, Mass, and Permissible Variations
considered substantially free of cuprous oxide. In case of
13.1 The dimensions and tolerances for material manufac-
dispute, testing shall be in accordance with Test Method
tured under this specification shall be as specified in the
E2575.
following tables:
11.2.3 In case of dispute, testing shall be in accordance with
Procedure C, Closed Bend Test, of Test Methods B577.
13.2 Diameter or Distance Between Parallel Surfaces:
11.3 Embrittlement Test: 13.2.1 Rod: Round, Hexagonal, Octagonal—See Table 3.
B187/B187M − 20
TABLE 3 Diameter Tolerances for Cold-Drawn Rod (H04 and O60 Tempers)
A
Tolerances, Plus and Minus, in. [mm]
Diameter or Distance Between
Parallel Surfaces, in. [mm]
Round Hexagonal or Octagonal
Up to 0.150 [3.8] incl. 0.0013 [0.035] 0.0025 [0.06]
Over 0.150 [3.8] to 0.500 [12] incl 0.0015 [0.04] 0.003 [0.08]
Over 0.500 [12] to 1.00 [25] incl. 0.002 [0.05] 0.004 [0.10]
Over 1.00 [25] to 2.00 [50] incl. 0.0025 [0.06] 0.005 [0.13]
B B
Over 2.00 [50] 0.15 0.30
A
When tolerances are specified as all plus or all minus, double the values given.
B
Percent of specified diameter
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: B187/B187M − 19 B187/B187M − 20
Standard Specification for
Copper, Bus Bar, Rod, and Shapes and General Purpose
Rod, Bar, and Shapes
This standard is issued under the fixed designation B187/B187M; 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*
1.1 This specification establishes the requirements for copper conductor bar, rod, and shapes for electrical (bus) applications
and rod, bar, and shapes for general applications.
1.1.1 The products for electrical (bus) applications shall be made from the following coppers:
Copper UNS No. Reference Designation
C10100 OFE
C10200 OF
C10300 OFXLP
C10400, C10500, C10700 OFS
C10920, C10930, C10940 —
C11000 ETP
C11020 FRHC
C11300, C11400, C11500, STP
C11600
C12000 DLP
1.1.1.1 The product may be furnished from any copper listed unless otherwise specified in the contract or purchase order.
1.2 The product for general applications shall be made from any of the coppers in 1.1.1 or the following coppers:
Copper UNS No. Reference Designation
C10800 OFLP
C12200 DHP
1.2.1 The product may be furnished from any copper listed above unless otherwise specified in the contract or purchase order.
Other coppers may be used upon agreement between the supplier and purchaser.
1.3 Units—The values stated in either inch-pound units or SI units are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text,
SI units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure
conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not
be combined.
NOTE 1—Material for hot forging will be found in Specification B124/B124M.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
B124/B124M Specification for Copper and Copper Alloy Forging Rod, Bar, and Shapes
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee B05 on Copper and Copper Alloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee B05.02 on Rod, Bar,
Wire, Shapes and Forgings.
Current edition approved April 15, 2019June 1, 2020. Published May 2019June 2020. Originally approved in 1944. Last previous edition approved in 20162019 as
B187/B187M–16.-19. DOI: 10.1520/B0187_B0187M–19.10.1520/B0187_B0187M-20.
For ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code applications, see related Specification SB-187 in Section II of that Code.
Refer to Practice E527 for an explanation of the Unified Numbering System.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
*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
B187/B187M − 20
B170 Specification for Oxygen-Free Electrolytic Copper—Refinery Shapes
B193 Test Method for Resistivity of Electrical Conductor Materials
B216 Specification for Tough-Pitch Fire-Refined Copper—Refinery Shapes
B224 Classification of Coppers
B249/B249M Specification for General Requirements for Wrought Copper and Copper-Alloy Rod, Bar, Shapes and Forgings
B577 Test Methods for Detection of Cuprous Oxide (Hydrogen Embrittlement Susceptibility) in Copper
B601 Classification for Temper Designations for Copper and Copper Alloys—Wrought and Cast
B846 Terminology for Copper and Copper Alloys
B900 Practice for Packaging of Copper and Copper Alloy Mill Products for U.S. Government Agencies
E53 Test Method for Determination of Copper in Unalloyed Copper by Gravimetry
B187/B187M − 20
E62 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Copper and Copper Alloys (Photometric Methods) (Withdrawn 2010)
E255 Practice for Sampling Copper and Copper Alloys for the Determination of Chemical Composition
E478 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Copper Alloys
E527 Practice for Numbering Metals and Alloys in the Unified Numbering System (UNS)
E1004 Test Method for Determining Electrical Conductivity Using the Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Method
E2575 Test Method for Determination of Oxygen in Copper and Copper Alloys by Inert Gas Fusion
2.2 Other Standard:
ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code
3. Terminology
3.1 For definitions of terms related to copper and copper alloys, refer to Terminology B846.
3.2 Definitions:
3.2.1 bus bar, n—includes material of solid rectangular or square cross section or a solid section with two plane parallel surfaces
and round or other simple regularly shaped edges up to and including 12 in. in width and 0.090 in. and over in thickness.
3.2.2 bus conductor stock, n—a bar, rod, or shape of high conductivity copper used to make electrical conductors.
3.2.3 bus rod, n—includes solid round and regular polygons of six and eight sides.
3.2.4 bus shapes, n—a solid section other than regular rod, bar, plate, sheet, strip, or flat wire, that may be oval, half oval, half
round, triangular, pentagonal, or of any special cross section furnished in straight lengths. Shapes shall not include tube and pipe
or other hollow sections.
3.3 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.3.1 orange peel, n—the surface roughness resulting from working metal of large grain size. The surface is similar in texture
to that of the outside surface of an orange.
4. General Requirements
4.1 The following sections of Specification B249/B249M are a part of this specification:
4.1.1 Terminology;
4.1.2 Materials and Manufacture;
4.1.3 Workmanship, Finish, and Appearance;
4.1.4 Sampling;
4.1.5 Number of Tests and Retests;
4.1.6 Test Methods;
4.1.7 Specimen Preparation;
4.1.8 Significance of Numerical Limits;
4.1.9 Inspection;
4.1.10 Rejection and Rehearing;
4.1.11 Certification;
4.1.12 Test Reports; and
4.1.13 Packaging and Package Marking.
4.2 Identical sections in this specification supplement the referenced section.
5. Ordering Information
5.1 Include the following specified choices when placing orders for product under this specification, as applicable:
5.1.1 ASTM specification designation and year of issue,;
5.1.2 Copper UNS No. (see 7.1 and Table 1);
5.1.3 Temper required (see 8.1 and Table 2);
5.1.4 Dimensions and form;
5.1.5 When product is ordered for ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code applications (see Section 16);
5.1.6 Shapes: dimensional tolerances required and agreed upon (see 13.3);
5.1.7 Quantity: number of pounds, pieces, or footage required;
5.1.8 Length: stock or specific (see 13.5); and
5.1.9 When material is purchased for agencies of the U.S. Government (see Section 12).
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
Available from American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ASME International Headquarters, Two Park Ave., New York, NY 10016-5990, http://
www.asme.org.
B187/B187M − 20
TABLE 1 Chemical Requirements
NOTE 1—If the type of silver-bearing copper is not specified (that is whether tough pitch, phosphorized, or oxygen-free), any one of the three types
may be supplied at the option of the manufacturer.
Composition % Maximum (Unless shown as a range or minimum)
Copper Copper Phos- Silver Oxygen Tellurium Tin
UNS No. (Incl. Silver) phorus
A B B B B B
C10100 99.99 min
C
C10200 99.95 min . . 0.0010 . .
D
C10300 99.95 min 0.001–0.005 . . . .
E C F
C10400 99.95 min . 8 0.0010 . .
E C F
C10500 99.95 min . 10 0.0010 . .
E C F
C10700 99.95 min . 25 0.0010 . .
D
C10800 99.95 min 0.005–0.012 . . . .
C10920 99.90 min . . 0.02 . .
F
C10930 99.90 min . 13 0.02 . .
F
C10940 99.90 min . 25 0.02 . .
G
C11000 99.90 min . . . .
G
C11020 99.90 min . . . .
H F G
C11300 99.90 min . 8 . .
H F G
C11400 99.90 min . 10 . .
H F G
C11500 99.90 min . 16 . .
H F G
C11600 99.90 min . 25 . .
C12000 99.90 min 0.004–0.012 . . . .
C12200 99.90 min 0.015–0.040 . . . .
A
Copper value is determined by the difference between the impurity total and 100 %. The copper value is exclusive of Ag.
B
Impurity maximums in ppm of C10100 shall be: antimony 4, arsenic 5, bismuth 1, cadmium 1, iron 10, lead 5, manganese 0.5, nickel 10, oxygen 5, phosphorus 3,
selenium 3, silver 25, sulfur 15, tellurium 2, tin 2, and zinc 1.
C
Copper value is determined by the difference between the impurity total and 100 %.
D
Copper (includes silver) + phosphorus, min.
E
C10400, C10500, and C10700 are oxygen-free coppers with the addition of a specified amount of silver. The compositions of these alloys are equivalent to C10200 plus
the intentional addition of silver.
F
Values are minimum silver in Troy ounces per Avoidupois ton (1 oz/ton is equivalent to 0.0034 %).
G
Oxygen and trace elements may vary depending on the process.
H
C11300, C11400, C11500, and C11600 are electrolytic tough-pitch copper with silver additions. The compositions of these alloys are equivalent to C11000 plus the
intentional addition of silver.
5.2 The following options are available but may not be included unless specified at the time of placing of the order when
required:
5.2.1 Heat identification or traceability details required,
5.2.2 Hydrogen embrittlement test,
5.2.3 Bend test,
5.2.4 Certification,
5.2.5 Mill test reports,
5.2.6 Special packaging requirements,
5.2.7 Edges other than finished edges (see 6.2.1.2),
5.2.8 Edge contours other than square edge (see 13.7), and
5.2.9 Location for the determination of the Rockwell hardness (see 10.2.2).
6. Materials and Manufacture
6.1 Material:
6.1.1 The materials shall conform to the published compositional requirements of the Copper or Copper Alloy UNS No.
designation specified in the ordering information.
6.1.2 In the event heat identification or traceability is required, the purchaser shall specify the details desired.
6.2 Manufacture:
6.2.1 Edges:
6.2.1.1 Bar shall be furnished with finished edges (see 13.7) unless otherwise specified at the time of order placement.
6.2.1.2 Bar may be furnished with sawed edges and deburred corners upon agreement between the manufacturer or supplier and
the purchaser (see 5.2.7).
7. Chemical Composition
7.1 The specified copper shall conform to the chemical requirements prescribed in Table 1.
7.2 These specification limits do not preclude the possible presence of other elements. Limits for unnamed elements may be
established and analysis required by agreement between the manufacturer or the supplier and the purchaser.
B187/B187M − 20
A
TABLE 2 Mechanical (All Alloys) and Electrical Requirements (Conductor Alloys Only)
Yield
Tensile
E 2
Temper Strength,
Electrical Resistivity, Max, Ω·g/m at 20°C [68°F]20 °C
Strength,
Designation ksi, [MPa] [68 °F]
B
ksi, [MPa]
C
Min
C10200,
C10400,
C10500,
Elongation
C10700, Rockwell
in 4 ×
C10920, Hardness
Diameter or Diameter Bend
C10930, F Scale,
Distance Between or Test
Standard Former Min Max Min C10100 C10940, C10300 C12000 60-kg
Parallel Surfaces, Thickness Angle of
C11000, Load,
in. of Bend °
C11020, ⁄16-in.
Specimen
C11300, Ball
D
Min. %
C11400,
C11500,
C11600
O60 Soft Rod and bar:
anneal
C
All sizes 28 [195] 37 [255] 8 [55] 25 180 0.15176 0.153 28 0.156 14 0.16661 50 max
H04 Hard Rod:
Up to ⁄8 [10] incl. 45 [310] 60 [410] — 12 120 0.15585 0.157 37 0.15940 0.17031 —
Over ⁄8 [10] to 40 [275] 55 [380] — 12 120 0.15585 0.15737 0.15940 0.17031 80 min
1 [25] incl.
Over 1 [25] to 35 [240] 50 [345] — 15 120 0.15585 0.15737 0.15940 0.17031 75 min
2 [50] incl. · · · · · ·
Over 2 [50] to 33 [230] 48 [330] — 15 120 0.15425 0.15577 0.15940 0.17031 65 min
3 [75] incl.
Over 3 [75] 30 [205] 48 [330] — 15 120 0.15425 0.15577 0.15940 0.17031 —
Bar:
H02 Half Up to ⁄8 [10] incl. 37.5 [260] 50 [345] — 10 120 0.15585 0.15737 0.15940 0.17031 80 min
Hard thickness and up
to 4 [110] incl.
in width
All other sizes 33 [230] 50 [345] — 15 120 0.15425 0.15577 0.15940 0.17031 65 min
F
Channels, angles Not — 15 — 0.15425 0.15577 0.17031 —
F
and shapes established
A
See 9.1.
B
ksi = 1000 psi.
C
Light-straightening operation is permitted.
D
In any case, a minimum gage length of 1 in. shall be used.
E
See Appendix X1.
F
Special agreement shall be made between the manufacturer or supplier and the purchaser.
8. Temper
8.1 Tempers available under this specification and as described in Classification B601 are as follows:
Temper Designation
Standard Former
O60 soft anneal
H02 half hard
H04 hard
9. Physical Property Requirements
9.1 Electrical Resistivity—Bar, rod, and shapes of alloys Copper UNS Nos. C10100, C10200, C10300, C10400, C10500,
C10700, C10920, C10930, C10940, C11000, C11020, C11300, C11400, C11500, C11600, and C12000 shall conform to the
electrical resistivity limits prescribed in Table 2 for specified copper, temper, form, and size when determined in accordance with
Test Method B193.
9.2 Electrical Resistivity—Unless otherwise specified in the contract or ordering information, the manufacturer has the option
of using Test Method E1004 to determine conformance to the electrical resistivity limits prescribed in Table 2 for Copper UNS
Nos. C10100, C10200, C10300, C10400, C10500, C10700, C10920, C10930, C10940, C11000, C11020, C11300, C11400,
C11500, C11600, and C12000. In case of dispute, Test Method B193 shall be used.
10. Mechanical Property Requirements
10.1 Tensile Requirements:
10.1.1 The bars and rod shall conform to the tensile, yield, and elongation requirements of Table 2.
10.1.1.1 For shapes, the tensile requirements (if any) shall be by agreement between the manufacturer and the purchaser.
B187/B187M − 20
10.2 Rockwell Hardness:
10.2.1 Rockwell hardness tests offer a quick and convenient method of checking copper of any temper for general conformity
to the requirements of tensile strength. The approximate Rockwell hardness values for the specified tempers are given in Table 2
for general information and assistance in testing.
10.2.2 When specified at the time of order and as agreed to by the purchaser and supplier or manufacturer, the location for the
determination of the Rockwell hardness may be specified.
11. Performance Requirements
11.1 Bending Requirements:
11.1.1 When specified in the contract or purchase order, for bar, bus bar, flat wire, and rod, test specimens shall withstand being
bent cold (right way bend) through an angle as specified in Table 2 for the specified temper and size without fracture on the outside
of the bent portion and with no evidence of slivers, cracks, orange peel, or similar surface defects being visible to the unaided eye.
11.1.2 The bend shall be made on a radius equal to the minimum cross-sectional dimension of the specimen, and this dimension
shall be radial to the bend.
11.1.3 The axis of the bend shall be at an angle of 90° to the direction of rolling, drawing, or extrusion (right way bend).
11.1.4 Edgewise and wrong way bend test requirements for bar or bus bar shall be by agreement between the manufacturer or
supplier and the purchaser.
11.2 Microscopical Examination:
11.2.1 Copper UNS Nos. C10100, C10200, C10300, C10400, C10500, C10700, C10800, and C12000 shall be substantially free
of cuprous oxide as determined by Procedure A, Microscopical Examination, of Test Methods B577.
11.2.2 In lieu of the Microscopic examination for copper C10100, C10200, C10300, C10400, C10500, C10700, C10800 the
manufacturer has the option to determine the actual oxygen content of the copper in the final size. If the oxygen level is equal to
or less than 10 ppm, then it is considered free of cuprous oxide. For Copper C12000 when phosphorus content is within the
specification (0.004 and 0.012 %) it should be considered substantially free of cuprous oxide. In case of dispute, testing shall be
in accordance with Test Method E2575.
11.2.3 In case of dispute, testing shall be in accordance with Procedure C, Closed Bend Test, of Test Methods B577.
11.3 Embrittlement Test:
11.3.1 When specified in the contract or purchase order, Copper UNS Nos. C10100, C10200, C10300, C10400, C10500,
C10700, C10800, and C12000 shall pass the embrittlement test described in Procedure B, Microscopical Examination of Thermally
Treated Specimens, in Test Methods B577.
11.3.2 In case of dispute, testing shall be in accordance with Procedure C, Closed Bend Test, of Test Methods B577.
12. Orders for U.S. Government Agencies
12.1 Orders for agencies of the U.S. Government shall conform to the special government requirements stipulated in the
Supplemental Requirements section.
13. Dimensions, Mass, and Permissible Variations
TABLE 3 Diameter Tolerances for Cold-Drawn Rod (H04 and O60 Tempers)
A
Tolerances, Plus and Minus, in. [mm]
Diameter or Distance Between
Parallel Surfaces, in. [mm]
Round Hexagonal or Octagonal
Up to 0.150 [3.8] incl. 0.0013 [0.035] 0.0025 [0.06]
Over 0.150 [3.8] to 0.500 [12] incl 0.0015 [0.04] 0.003 [0.08]
Over 0.500 [12] to 1.00 [25] incl. 0.002 [0.05] 0.004 [0.10]
Over 1.00 [25] to 2.00 [50] incl. 0.0025 [0.06] 0.005 [0.13]
B B
Over 2.00 [50] 0.15 0.30
A
When tolerances are specified as all plus or all minus, double the values given.
B
Percent of specified diameter or distance between parallel surfaces expressed to the nearest 0.001 in. [0.025 mm].
A
TABLE 4 Thickness Tolerances for Drawn or Rolled Rectangular and Square Bar Plus and Minus, in. [mm]
Width, in. [mm]
Thickness 2 [50] Over 2 [50] Over 4 [100] Over 8 [20
...