Pinhole-Free Copper Foil for High Voltage Transformers

High-voltage transformers are key equipment in power systems, and their insulation performance directly affects the safety and reliability of the power grid. As the core material of high-voltage transformer windings, the quality of pinhole-free copper foil directly determines the transformer’s insulation class, service life, and operational reliability.


I. Technical Definition and Testing Standards of Non-Porous Copper Foil

1.1 Basic Concepts

Non-porous copper foil refers to high-purity copper foil material that has undergone special processing and has no defects such as pinholes, inclusions, or cracks on its surface. Pinholes are a common defect which can lead to:

  • Insulation breakdown: Electric field concentration at pinholes can easily cause partial discharge
  • Insulation aging: Accelerates deterioration of insulation materials
  • Safety hazards: Serious risk of insulation failure

1.2 Pinhole Detection Methods

Detection MethodStandardPinhole Size Range
Pinhole DetectorCustom≥0.01mm
Visual InspectionASTM B152≥0.1mm
Eddy Current TestingCustom≥0.05mm
Light InspectionGB/T 5231≥0.05mm

1.3 Technical Requirements

  • Pinhole Count: AATCC Class 100 (≤5 pinholes per square foot)
  • Surface Roughness: Ra≤0.8μm
  • Conductivity: IACS≥101%
  • Tensile Strength: 200-280 MPa

II. High Voltage Transformer Requirements

2.1 Insulation Requirements

  • High voltage level: Usually 110kV and above
  • Strict insulation coordination: Various overvoltage conditions
  • Partial discharge: Must be controlled ≤10pC
  • Design life: ≥30 years

2.2 Core Selection Considerations

Technical PointsRequirements
Pinhole ControlZero pinholes or AATCC Class 100
Surface QualitySmooth, Ra≤0.8μm
PurityCu≥99.90%
Thickness ToleranceWithin ±3%

III. Technical Specifications

3.1 Recommended Grades

GradePurityConductivityTensile StrengthElongationApplication
C11000 (ETP)≥99.90%≥101% IACS200-280 MPa≥15%Standard HV
C10100 (OFC)≥99.99%≥101.5% IACS190-260 MPa≥20%High-Performance
C10200 (TPA)≥99.95%≥101% IACS195-265 MPa≥18%Precision

3.2 Key Performance Parameters

Electrical: Conductivity IACS≥101%, Resistivity 0.01724 Ω·mm²/m

Dimensions: Thickness 0.05-3.0mm, Tolerance ±0.02mm, Width 10-600mm

Mechanical: Tensile strength 200-280 MPa, Elongation ≥15-25%, Hardness 35-65 HV


IV. Special Process Requirements

4.1 Insulation System Design

  • Copper foil + Nomex paper + polyester film combination
  • Oil channel width meets insulation and heat dissipation needs
  • Electrical clearance: ≥5mm from edge to core

4.2 Partial Discharge Control

  • Non-porous copper foil eliminates pinhole-based partial discharge sources
  • Surface treatment reduces protrusions and sharp corners
  • Welding quality avoids defect-induced discharge

4.3 Winding Parameters

ParameterRecommended Value
Winding Tension10-20 N/mm²
Winding Speed20-50 m/min
Annealing Temperature400-650°C
Insulation ClassClass E to H (120-180°C)

V. Industry Standards and Certifications

Standards: IEC 60325, IEC 60076, GB/T 5231, ASTM B152, JIS H3100

Certifications: ISO 9001, UL, RoHS/REACH, SGS


VI. Quality Inspection

InspectionMethodStandard
Pinhole DetectionPinhole DetectorAATCC Class 100
Chemical CompositionSpectroscopyCu≥99.90%
Thickness ToleranceThickness Gauge±0.02mm
ConductivityEddy CurrentIACS≥101%

VII. Supplier Selection

  • Full-process production line (melting → rolling → annealing → slitting)
  • Professional pinhole detection capability
  • Thickness control: ±0.02mm
  • ISO 9001/14001/45001 certified

VIII. Product Specifications

GradeThicknessWidthTemperConductivity
C110000.1-2.5mm20-500mmO/H22/H24≥101% IACS
C101000.05-2.0mm10-400mmO/H22≥101.5% IACS
C102000.1-3.0mm20-600mmO/H24≥101% IACS

Non-Porous Grade: AATCC Class 100 or higher


Conclusion

The selection of pinhole-free copper foil for high voltage transformers requires focus on pinhole control accuracy, surface quality, and insulation compatibility.

Our company has 30 years of experience exporting electrical wire and metal foil. We provide C11000/C10100/C10200 series pinhole-free copper foil for high voltage transformers with customized sizes and global sample shipping.

Contact:
Email: office@cnlpzz.com
WhatsApp: 0086-19337889070


The technical parameters described are general reference values. Please consult our technical team for specific selections based on your high voltage transformer design requirements.

Send Message

Get a tailored quote—fill out the request form and enjoy exclusive discounts!