Copper (Cu)
Copper is one of humanity's oldest-used metals, prized for its unmatched electrical and thermal conductivity, ductility, and antimicrobial properties. It is essential for electrical systems, heat exchangers, plumbing, and an ever-growing role in renewable energy and electric vehicles.
Properties
- Density
- 8,960 kg/m³
- Melting Point
- 1,085 °C
- Boiling Point
- 2,562 °C
- Thermal Conductivity
- 401 W/(m·K)
- Electrical Resistivity
- 1.67 × 10⁻⁸ Ω·m
- Tensile Strength
- 210–380 MPa
- Yield Strength
- 70–310 MPa
- Hardness
- 35–115 HB
- Elongation
- 5–50%
- Crystal Structure
- FCC
Common Grades
- C11000 (ETP): Electrolytic tough pitch copper, 99.9% Cu. Standard electrical conductor.
- C12200 (DHP): Deoxidized high-phosphorus copper. Plumbing tubes, heat exchangers.
- C10200 (OFHC): Oxygen-free high-conductivity copper. Electronics, vacuum applications.
- C17200: Beryllium copper. Springs, connectors, non-sparking tools.
- C14500 (Te-Cu): Tellurium copper — free-machining grade. Screw-machine parts, electrical components.
- C18150 (CuCrZr): Chromium-zirconium copper. Resistance welding electrodes, MIG contact tips, high-current connectors.
Applications
- Electrical: Wiring, busbars, transformers, motor windings, printed circuit boards
- Plumbing & HVAC: Water pipes, fittings, radiators, heat exchangers, air conditioning
- Renewable Energy: Solar panel wiring, wind turbine generators, EV motors and wiring
- Architecture: Roofing, cladding, gutters, decorative elements, door hardware
- Marine: Ship hulls (anti-fouling), propellers, seawater piping systems
FAQ
Why is copper the best electrical conductor after silver?
Copper has the second-lowest electrical resistivity (1.67 × 10⁻⁸ Ω·m) of all elements after silver (1.59 × 10⁻⁸). Combined with its much lower cost, excellent ductility for wire drawing, and good corrosion resistance, it is the universal choice for electrical applications.
What is the green coating on old copper surfaces?
The green coating is patina, primarily copper carbonate (CuCO₃) formed through decades of atmospheric exposure. This patina is self-healing and protects the underlying copper from further corrosion — which is why copper roofs can last 200+ years.
How much copper is in an electric vehicle?
A typical battery electric vehicle contains 60–80 kg of copper — 3–4× more than a conventional car. Copper is used in the motor windings, battery connections, wiring harness, charging infrastructure, and power electronics. The EV transition is projected to add 2–3 million tonnes to annual copper demand by 2030.
What is beryllium copper used for?
Beryllium copper (C17200, ~2% Be) is precipitation-hardened to achieve very high strength (1,200+ MPa) while maintaining good conductivity. Its key properties are non-sparking behavior (safe in explosive atmospheres), high fatigue resistance, and spring properties. Used for non-sparking tools, connectors, and springs in hazardous environments.