Copper has been making a name for itself for centuries. Its unique properties cause it to stand out more than its unmistakable reddish-brown color. From its electrical conductivity to its corrosion resistance, copper is ideal for so many applications throughout a long list of industries.
This article explores the properties that make it an industrial favorite.
Properties of Copper
Some metals offer a few great properties, but copper offers many. Not only does this make it more impactful, but it makes it more versatile, as well. Here’s a look at a few of the properties of copper.
Electrical Conductivity
Copper offers superior electrical conductivity — next in line to silver. This is, perhaps, its most extraordinary property.
The way it is structured gives electrons the freedom to flow through the metal without any disruption. What’s more, it can maintain its conductivity for long periods and over long distances.
It is a cost-effective, ideal choice for electrical and electronic applications.
Thermal Conductivity
Not only does copper transmit electricity but it also has high thermal conductivity. It carries heat efficiently, enabling the transfer of it throughout an application or from one to another.
Applications that require the transfer of heat often consider copper to be the most efficient option to do so successfully.
Corrosion Resistance
When choosing a metal for an application, you want to ensure that it will be a long-lasting solution that can stand up to a variety of elements. Copper can corrode, but thanks to its protective oxide layer, it guards against air and water to slow down the oxidation process.
Its corrosion resistance ensures its longevity.
Ductility and Malleability
What good is a metal in some applications if it cannot be formed into the shape or design needed? Some metals may break when bent, but copper is ductile and malleable. This means that it can be made into wires, sheets, pipes, and tubes with ease.
Sustainability
Finally, industries are being called to make a difference in how they interact with the world around us. As a result, there has been a greater focus on sustainable solutions to protect the environment. And copper is the perfect choice.
Copper can be recycled into new, usable metal — over and over and over again. This uses much less energy and causes much less damage than mining and refining the metal.
Where is Copper Used?
Understanding the properties makes it easier to appreciate why copper is sought after in many industries worldwide.
Construction. When building new residential and commercial buildings, plumbing is often the go-to choice of metal. It is used in plumbing, roofing, decorative fixtures, and electrical wiring.
Energy. Copper is an ideal option for applications involving electricity. For instance, it is often used in the lines transmitting power throughout communities, for the electrical wiring in buildings and structures, and as various electronic components.
Automotive. Electrical systems, radiators, and other aspects of automobiles make use of copper.
Healthcare. Copper has antimicrobial properties that can significantly reduce the spread of germs which is why it is often found in medical devices and inside hospitals and healthcare facilities.
Consumer Products. Consumers regularly use products containing copper, such as cookware, door handles, decorative fixtures, jewelry, musical instruments, cell phones, electronics, appliances, and more.
These are just a few of the many industries and applications that regularly use copper. In other words, it is no secret that copper’s properties make it an industrial favorite. How can you take advantage of what it has to offer?
Atlas Bronze is a copper supplier that provides solutions to all your metal needs. They are a leading distributor of bronze, copper, brass, iron, sintered products, self-lubricated bushings, wear plates, and made-to-order castings, plates, and forgings throughout the United States.
