Battery Terminals Preferred by Auto Electrical Repair Professionals

Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) Battery Terminal (24K Gold Plated Version)

Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) Battery Terminal (24K Gold Plated Version)
DTPL 24K SET

Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) Battery Terminal (24K Gold Plated Version)
DTPS 24K SET

A supreme masterpiece made from high-conductivity oxygen-free copper (OFC), plated with 24K gold for low contact resistance and superior corrosion resistance

Designed to efficiently and stably supply power from automotive batteries (lead-acid batteries) to various electrical components, this terminal is crafted from the highest quality copper with a purity of 99.96% or higher, containing minimal impurities and additives. Using oxygen-free copper (OFC), known for its excellent conductivity, as the main material, this terminal reflects over half a century of experience as a professional manufacturer of automotive repair parts. Manufactured exclusively in Japan to meet Hero Electric's stringent standards, it stands as a truly unique battery terminal.

The surface is finished with 24K gold plating of exceptional purity (99.9% to 100.0%), chosen not only for the material’s uniquely exquisite natural luster, but also for its ability to maintain low contact resistance and exhibit extraordinary corrosion resistance with minimal degradation even under atmospheric exposure. These outstanding properties make it a preferred choice for a wide range of industrial applications where utmost reliability is essential, including precision electronic devices such as computers, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, measuring instruments, and medical components.

Hero Electric’s original Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) battery terminal with 24K gold plating embodies our unwavering commitment to innovation—responding to the evolving needs and values of consumers in a changing era. More than a functional component, it is a product designed to deliver lasting satisfaction and a deep sense of pride in ownership, as we continue to pursue the creation of truly high-value offerings.

"MADE IN JAPAN" – a mark of trust and reliability

By integrating the extensive knowledge and specialized expertise that Hero Electric has cultivated over more than half a century into every aspect of the design phase—and manufacturing exclusively at domestic facilities under innovative technologies and a rigorous, comprehensive quality control system—we achieve exceptionally high precision and reliability in the products themselves.

To meet the supreme mission of achieving both "quality" and "durability" as professional-use products, all of our products are designed and developed entirely in-house.

Uses Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) with impurities removed to the utmost limit

For the first time in Japan's automotive aftermarket industry, we adopted Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) as the core material for our battery terminal bodies. OFC is significantly purer and more conductive than standard copper, and is widely used in electronics and high-performance cables.

Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) Main Body

Images are for illustration purposes.
Not available for sale in bare (non-plated) form.

What is Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) ?

Oxygen-Free Copper (JIS H 3100, C1020)
High-purity copper with a purity of 99.96% or more

Oxygen-Free Copper is an exceptionally pure type of copper with minimal trace elements, impurities, and oxygen, resulting in a significantly higher purity compared to general copper.

High Electrical Conductivity

Oxygen-Free Copper has excellent electrical conductivity and is widely used in electronics, wiring, and conductors. Its high conductivity allows efficient transmission of electrical signals.

■Types, Grades, and Symbols of Materials Used in Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) Battery Terminals
Name Type Gradea) Type Symbol Key Features and Representative Applications (Reference Only)
Alloy Number Form
Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) C1020 Strip Standard Grade C1020Rb) It has excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, ductility, and drawability. It also offers good weldability, corrosion resistance, and weather resistance. Even when heated to high temperatures in a reducing atmosphere, it does not risk hydrogen embrittlement.

(Reference): Japanese Industrial Standard JIS H 3100:2018 Copper and Copper Alloy Plates and Strips

[Note]
b) For plates and strips used for electrical conduction, a "C" shall be added after the type symbols P, PS, R, or RS.

■ Chemical Composition of Oxygen-Free Copper (Alloy Number: C1020)
Alloy Number Chemical Composition (%)
CuPbFeSnZnAlMnNiPZr
C 1020"Minimum
99.96%"

(Reference): Japanese Industrial Standard JIS H 3100:2018 Copper and Copper Alloy Plates and Strips

■ Mechanical Properties of Materials Used in Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) Battery Terminals
Alloy Number Grade Product Symbol Tensile Test Bending test a) Hardness test a)
(for reference)
Thickness Range
mm
Tensile Strengthb)
N/mm2
Elongationb)
Thickness Range
mm
Bending Anglee)
Inner Radiuse)
Thickness Range
mm
Vickers Hardnessb)
HV
C1020 ½H C 1020
P-½Hd)
C 1020
PS-½Hd)
0.10~<0.15 235~315 - 0.10~2.0 180° 1xThickness 0.20~20 75~120e)
0.15~<0.30 ≧10
0.30~20 245~315 ≧15
C 1020
R-½Hd)
C 1020
RS-½Hd)
0.10~<0.15 235~315 - ≧0.20
0.15~<0.30 ≧10
0.30~4.0 245~315 ≧15 ≦4.0

(Reference): Japanese Industrial Standard JIS H 3100:2018 Copper and Copper Alloy Plates and Strips

[Notes]
a) Products that fall outside the specified thickness categories are not subject to bending or hardness tests.
b) Numerical values are rounded to the nearest whole number.
d) Also applicable to plates and strips used for electrical purposes.
e) Minimum test force is 1.961 N.

[Reference] Comparative Table of Conductivity of Various Materials Commonly Used for Battery Terminals
Comparative Materials Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC)
(Material used in our products)
Brass Zinc Alloy Die-Cast Lead
Material Conductivity (% IACS) 101% 28% 26% 9%

*1. IACS refers to the International Annealed Copper Standard, which defines 100% IACS as the conductivity of annealed standard copper.
*2. The above values are general reference values and not absolute (guaranteed) values.
(*Note) Cu-Zn alloys are referred to as brass; the academic term is "黄銅" (ōdō).
     (Reference): Osawa, Nao. "Illustrated Introduction to the Basics and Mechanisms of Copper." Shuwa System, 2010, p.106.

[Point] Easy-to-understand conductivity explained with illustrations

Conductivity can be compared to "road width," where smoother traffic flow represents higher efficiency.

Copper is a critical material for realizing a sustainable, decarbonized society through renewable energy and electric vehicles

■Renewable Energy Generation
Copper plays a vital role in renewable energy systems. Solar and wind power equipment requires large amounts of copper wiring. Copper's high conductivity and durability enhance the efficiency and sustainability of renewable energy generation.

■Electric Vehicles and Charging Infrastructure
Copper is an essential material in the production of electric vehicles. Motors, batteries, and charging infrastructure for electric vehicles require large amounts of copper. Its excellent conductivity and durability contribute to improved performance and efficiency in electric vehicles.

■Electronic Devices
Copper is also essential in electronics manufacturing. Copper wiring is used in computers, smartphones, and TVs. Its excellent heat conduction makes it suitable for use in cooling systems. As high-performance electronics become increasingly important in a decarbonized society, copper plays a crucial role in supporting this demand.

The surface is treated with 24K gold plating, which not only preserves low contact resistance but also delivers outstanding corrosion resistance and a lustrous, refined appearance

For the surface treatment of oxygen-free copper (OFC), we employ 24K gold plating—renowned not only for its elegant appearance, but also for its exceptionally low contact resistance, superior chemical stability, and outstanding corrosion resistance. This high-grade plating is the same type used in partial plating of specialized automotive airbag connectors, as well as in precision electronics, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and measurement instruments.

Before 24K Gold Plating
After 24K Gold Plating

About Gold Purity

Gold purity (or fineness) is a measure of the amount of gold in a product, expressed as a percentage (%) or in karats (K, kt). Pure gold is 24 karats, which means it contains 99.9% to 100.0% gold.

■ Gold Purity Explained at a Glance

Note: Common metals used as gold alloys include silver, copper, palladium, nickel, and zinc.

(Reference) TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd. “Interesting Facts About Precious Metals - Is it true that the higher the gold purity, the softer it is?” https://www.tanaka.co.jp/fun_facts/gold_purity/. (Accessed on 2024-04-17)

Developing products with a strong emphasis on unleashing maximum performance

To ensure the highest priority of achieving both reliability and robustness as battery terminals under the extremely harsh conditions of automotive engine compartments, we have established key specifications that include thickened materials and a slitless structure—free from notches or cracks. From the design stage onward, our in-house product development integrates the technical expertise and know-how that Hero Electric has cultivated over the years.

Development ConceptBackground Behind the Development Concept
Enhanced Durability through Thicker Base Material
  1. Structural Reinforcement
    While copper is a relatively soft material, increasing its thickness enhances its strength, thereby improving both rigidity and durability.
  2. Improved Electrical Conductivity
    While oxygen-free copper (OFC) already offers excellent electrical conductivity, increasing its volume through thicker material design further enhances the efficiency of electrical signal and power transmission.
Slitless Structure
  1. Enhanced Strength and Durability
    The absence of slits (cuts or cracks) improves the overall strength and durability of the product.
  2. Reduced Risk of Product Damage
    The slitless structure minimizes the risk of cracks or fractures, helping to avoid issues like poor contact and voltage drops.

Thickness Verification of Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) Battery Terminals

Products Plate Thickness
Bolt-Type Model DTPL Series 1.8 mm (0.071 in)
DTPS Series 1.5 mm (0.059 in)

(Dimensional tolerance: ±0.1 mm / ±0.004 in)

[Reference] Validation Based on Real-World Use Cases of Slit-Type Battery Terminals

Slits (cuts or cracks) can weaken the strength of objects or structures. When external force or load is applied to the slit, that area may become a point of weakness, increasing the likelihood of cracking or breakage.

Furthermore, Slit-type battery terminals that develop cracks due to vibrations from automobiles may cause unexpected vehicle issues, as increased contact resistance or poor connections can lead to voltage drops.

Verified by "Vibration Test" Based on JIS Standards (Test materials: DTPL and DTPS)

[Overview of Vibration Testing Equipment]

Actively promoting environmentally conscious manufacturing with consideration for issues such as climate change and biodiversity conservation

We place great importance on environmentally conscious manufacturing. As part of this commitment, over 30 years ago, Hero Electric took the lead in developing oxygen-free copper (OFC) battery terminals for automotive aftermarket use—completely free from hazardous substances such as lead, mercury, and cadmium—in compliance with the RoHS2 Directive. In line with RoHS2, Hero Electric will continue to actively contribute to global environmental preservation by providing compliant products and working toward a more sustainable future.

The RoHS2 (Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive) is a directive issued by the European Union (EU) that restricts the use of specific hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment and their components. The goal of RoHS2 is to reduce harmful effects on both the environment and human health.

The ten substances restricted under the RoHS2 Directive are as follows:

  1. Lead
  2. Mercury
  3. Cadmium
  4. Hexavalent Chromium
  5. Polybrominated Biphenyls(PBBs)
  6. Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers(PBDEs)
  7. Diisobutyl phthalate(DIBP)
  8. Dibutyl phthalate(DBP)
  9. Butyl benzyl phthalate(BBP)
  10. Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate(DEHP)

These substances are recognized as harmful to the environment, particularly when they leak during waste disposal, potentially contaminating soil and water sources and negatively impacting ecosystems and human health.

Hero Electric's Exclusively Designed Battery Terminal Cover — Where Function Meets Form

To improve usability, HERO Electric has expanded its original battery terminal cover series by introducing dedicated covers designed to fit both types of oxygen-free copper (OFC) battery terminals—standard and conversion models. These covers have been developed using HERO’s proprietary technologies and know-how, refined over many years, while also pursuing a sophisticated and functional design. In order to ensure high product reliability, domestic production is maintained without compromise. Like other products in the lineup, the covers feature increased wall thickness for enhanced durability and safety.

Cover for Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) Battery Terminal – Bolt Type (Compatible with DTPL and DXL models)

DVC-TXLR
DVC-TXLB

Cover for Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) Battery Terminal – Bolt Type (Compatible with DTPS and DXS models)

DVC-TXSR
DVC-TXSB

Verification Results of Leakage Current Testing Based on Our In-House Standards (Test Material: DVCP60)

[On-Vehicle Installation Example of Dedicated Cover for Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) Battery Terminals]

State During Testing
 

Product Lineup: *Click the part numbers for product details
Photo Type Parts number Standard specification
Pole size Application Polarity Materials Surface finish
Bolt-Type DTPL 24K SET For Large Pole [L]
(Type D Terminal)
Vertical Bolt
Section: M8
Includes one positive (+) and one negative (–) terminal per set Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) 24K Gold Plating
DTPS 24K SET For Small Pole [S]
(Type B Terminal)
Includes one positive (+) and one negative (–) terminal per set
24K Gold-Plated Ring Terminal (Closed Barrel Type)
Photo Parts number Bolt Hole Diameter Crimp Section Hole Diameter Wire Accommodation Range (Stranded Wire) Plate Thickness Materials Surface finish
DR8-8-24K φ8.4mm
(0.331 in)
φ4.5mm(br/>(0.177 in) 6.64mm²–10.52 mm²
(Approx. AWG 9–7)
1.2mm
(0.047 in)
Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) 24K Gold Plating
DR14-8-24K φ5.8mm
(0.047 in)
10.52mm²–16.78 mm²
(Approx. AWG 7–5)
1.6mm
(0.063 in)
DR22-8-24K φ7.7mm
(0.303 in)
16.78mm²–26.66 mm²
(Approx. AWG 5–3)
1.8mm
(0.071 in)
Example of use
Real-World Installation Example of Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) Battery Terminal with 24K Gold Plating
Toyota PRIUS DAA-ZVW50
Nissan NOTE NISMO S
Replacement Method for Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) Battery Terminals (Bolt Type)

Installation Example

Vehicle Model
Daihatsu Mira Gino (Model: L700)

Replacement Products
Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) Battery Terminal
(Parts No.: DTPS-2S)

Step 1 Prepare Necessary Components Including Battery Terminals
Step 2 Remove Battery Terminals
Step 3 Cut the Wire
Step 4 Crimp the Terminal and Prepare
Step 5 Protect the Crimped Section with Heat-Shrink Tubing (Only if Using Heat-Shrink Tubing)
Step 6 Reattach the Battery Terminals
Quick Tip for Installing an Oxygen-Free Copper Battery Terminal onto a Lead-Acid Battery Post

*The illustration above shows the bolt-type specification.

  1. Firmly insert the oxygen-free copper (OFC) battery terminal onto the post of the lead-acid battery.
  2. Tighten the M6 nut until Point A comes into contact with the opposite surface.
  3. By further tightening the M6 nut, Point A acts as a fulcrum, causing the oxygen-free copper battery terminal to clamp securely onto the post of the lead-acid battery.(The fulcrum effect ensures that the oxygen-free copper terminal is firmly and reliably fixed in place.)
  4. Immediately after installation, check for any looseness.
  5. Periodically inspect to confirm that the oxygen-free copper battery terminal remains securely tightened.
When installing the oxygen-free copper battery terminal,always check that there are no abnormalities on the post of the battery (lead-acid battery).Also, please make sure not to touch the battery fluid under any circumstances.