Copper Conductors for Use in Hookup Wire for Electronic Equipment

B286-07 (Reapproved 2017): Standard Specification for Copper Conductors for Use in Hookup Wire for Electronic Equipment

In the intricate world of electronic equipment design and manufacturing, the reliability and performance of every component are paramount. For engineers and designers working with hookup wire, understanding and adhering to material specifications is not just best practice, but an essential requirement for ensuring product integrity. ASTM B286-07 (Reapproved 2017) stands as an authoritative guide, providing the foundational specifications for the copper conductors that form the backbone of countless electronic systems. This document is crucial for anyone involved in the procurement, design, or quality assurance of electronic wiring.

What is B286-07 (Reapproved 2017)?

ASTM B286-07 (Reapproved 2017) is a comprehensive standard that defines the requirements for uninsulated, metallic-coated copper conductors specifically intended for use in hookup wire within electronic equipment. Developed by ASTM International, this standard ensures consistency and quality in the metallic coatings applied to copper conductors, impacting their electrical performance and durability. Its primary purpose is to establish a reliable baseline for materials used in critical electronic applications.

Scope & Purpose

This industry-leading standard governs the physical and electrical properties of metallic-coated copper conductors, including solid and stranded constructions. It details requirements for various metallic coatings such as tin, lead alloy, silver, and nickel, specifying their application and performance characteristics. The standard focuses on the conductors themselves, not the finished insulated hookup wire. It also references other ASTM standards for specific coating types and electrical properties, providing a clear framework for material selection and verification.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Electrical Engineers, Materials Engineers, Design Engineers, Quality Control Inspectors, Procurement Specialists, and Manufacturing Technicians.
• • Industries affected: Electronics Manufacturing, Wire and Cable Manufacturing, Aerospace, Automotive, Telecommunications, and Industrial Control Systems.
• • Compliance nature: Voluntary, but highly recommended for manufacturers and designers seeking to meet industry expectations and ensure product reliability.
• • Enforcement: Compliance is typically verified through internal quality control processes, customer audits, and certifications.

Key Requirements Overview

Professionals working with ASTM B286-07 (Reapproved 2017) should be aware of several core provisions:

• • The standard requires that metallic coatings applied to copper conductors conform to the specific requirements outlined in referenced ASTM specifications (e.g., B33 for tin-coated, B298 for silver-coated).
• • Conductors are generally specified to be supplied in an annealed temper, though exceptions for unannealed silver or nickel-coated conductors are noted for specific applications.
• • Key provisions include detailed tables specifying conductor sizes (AWG), construction parameters (e.g., number of wires in stranded conductors), and maximum allowable D-C resistance at 20°C for various coating types.
• • Design considerations for stranded conductors include requirements for the length of lay to ensure proper flexibility and performance.
• • Engineers must ensure that the selected conductor meets the specified electrical resistance and mechanical properties suitable for the intended electronic equipment.

Related Standards & References

ASTM B286-07 (Reapproved 2017) often works in