Metallurgical analysis according to NF EN 1977 standard in the laboratory (copper analysis)

Chemical analysis Material characterization Problem solving
More than 140 people
More than 140 people at your service
5200 m² laboratory
5200 m² laboratory + 99% of services are provided in-house
Accredited laboratory
Accredited laboratory COFRAC ISO 17025

In sectors such as automotive, aerospace, or construction, the purity of copper is an industrial imperative. To ensure the performance of your products and secure your supply chain, our specialized laboratory supports you in qualifying your copper cathodes and wire.

Copper metallurgical analysis: entrust your compliance with NF EN 1977 to us

Why carry out a metallurgical analysis according to NF EN 1977?

The NF EN 1977 standard defines the chemical and physical characteristics of copper wire rod intended for wire drawing or the manufacture of electrical conductors. A tiny variation in impurity or oxygen content can drastically alter the electrical conductivity, malleability, and mechanical strength of the material.

Did you know?

An excess of oxygen can lead to embrittlement of copper during welding or annealing processes, while a lack of oxygen can affect the recrystallization of the metal.

FILAB laboratory carries out copper metallurgical analysis according to NF EN 1977 standard

Our dual analytical approach for metallurgical analysis according to NF EN 1977 standard

Oxygen (O) Determination by Elemental Analyzer

Control of oxygen content is the cornerstone of the NF EN 1977 standard (particularly for the Cu-ETP and Cu-FRHC grades).

  • Method: oxygen determination O elemental analyzer, inert gas fusion (Infrared).

  • Advantage: a direct, ultra-fast measurement with extreme sensitivity to ensure the electrical and mechanical properties of your copper.

Analysis of impurities by ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma Emission Spectrometry)

High-purity copper requires the control of trace amounts of undesirable elements (Bismuth, Lead, Antimony, Arsenic, Iron, etc.) at thresholds on the order of ppm (parts per million).

  • Method: ICP-OES (Optical) or ICP-MS (Mass) after acid dissolution of your samples.

  • Advantage: simultaneous multi-element analysis making it possible to establish a complete and ultra-precise chemical fingerprint of your copper matrix.

Why choose FILAB for copper metallurgical analysis according to NF EN 1977 standard?

  • 45 years of experience in metallurgical analysis and expertise
  • Dual expertise in chemistry / materials
  • Tailor-made support according to program requirements
  • Confidential interventions on critical components

Our FAQ

What is NF EN 1977 standard and who is it for?

NF EN 1977 standard specifies the requirements relating to the chemical, physical, and mechanical characteristics of copper wire rods intended for wire drawing or the manufacture of electrical conductors. It is mainly intended for copper refiners, wire drawers, electrical cable manufacturers, and industrial buyers seeking to validate the quality of their raw material.

Why is oxygen determination so important for copper?

Oxygen plays a dual role in copper:

  • A controlled oxygen level (generally between 100 and 400 ppm for Cu-ETP copper) makes it possible to trap certain impurities in the form of harmless oxides, thereby improving conductivity.

  • On the other hand, excess oxygen weakens the metal during bending, wire drawing, or welding operations (risk of "hydrogen embrittlement").

Our O elemental analyzer allows precise measurement of this critical parameter.

Which chemical elements are measured by ICP technology?

ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma Emission Spectrometry) makes it possible to detect and quantify impurities and alloying elements at extremely low levels (often below ppm). NF EN 1977 standard requires strict control of many elements, including:

  • Lead (Pb), bismuth (Bi), and antimony (Sb), which affect hot workability.

  • Arsenic (As), iron (Fe), and phosphorus (P), which drastically reduce electrical conductivity.

  • Silver (Ag), sulfur (S), nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn), tin (Sn), and selenium (Se).

How can i get a quote from FILAB laboratory?

To receive a quote, you can contact our teams via our contact form, by phone, or by email.
Simply send us your requirements (material type, desired analysis, any applicable standard, urgency, number of samples, etc.). We will then send you a personalized technical and pricing proposal within 24-48 hours.

What is the typical duration of a copper metallurgical analysis according to NF EN 1977 standard?

Lead times vary depending on the nature of the analysis and the complexity of the expert assessment project.
However, FILAB is committed to providing fast turnaround times tailored to your constraints and industrial urgencies.

The filab advantages
A highly qualified team
A highly qualified team
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
(Staves available on www.cofrac.com - Accreditation number: 1-1793)
A complete analytical facility of 5,200m²
A complete analytical facility of 5,200m²
Tailor-made support
Tailor-made support
Video debriefing available with the expert
Video debriefing available with the expert
Emmanuel BUIRET Metallurgical Specialist
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