What are the end uses of Copper?
Copper is a metal which is essential in our everyday life in a diverse set of applications.
Electrical:
Copper is the best non precious metal conductor of electricity and being relatively abundant, is widely used for power distribution and electric drives. Copper's exceptional strength, ductility, and resistance to creeping and corrosion, makes it the preferred and safest conductor for building wiring.
Electronics and Communications:
The introduction of optical fibre in communication trunk lines has led to an increase in demand for copper. Copper continues to be the preferred carrier for the last mile or segment. Furthermore, domestic subscriber lines, wide and local area networks, personal computers and other hardware all require copper and copper alloys.
Construction:
Copper and brass are the materials of choice for plumbing, taps, valves and fittings. The use of copper doorknobs and plates is also very common in buildings.
Transportation:
All major forms of transportation depend on copper to perform critical functions. Copper-nickel alloys are used on the hulls of boats and ships to improve fuel consumption. Copper's superior thermal conductivity, strength, corrosion resistance, and recyclability make it ideal for automotive and truck radiators. Today's average size automobile contains about 27.6 kilograms of copper and a Boeing 747-400 contains 4,000 kilograms.
Industrial Machinery and Equipment:
Due to copper's durability, machinability, and ability to be cast with high precision and tolerances, copper alloys are ideal for making products such as gears, bearings, and turbine blades. Copper's superior heat transfer capabilities and ability to withstand extreme environments makes it an ideal choice for heat exchange equipment, pressure vessels and vats.
Fertilizers, Fungicides and insecticides:
Copper production was boosted in the 1950s and 1960s by the need for copper-based fertilisers to aid crop growth in previously unproductive land. Copper sulphate is used to kill algal blooms in water reservoirs, to protect timber, to stop plant roots from blocking rains and sewerage systems, and to kill insects.
Copper Alloys
Bronze (90% copper, 10% tin) is used for statues, and bearings in car engines and heavy machinery. Brass (70% copper, 30% zinc) is particularly rust-resistant and so is used to make the hulls of sailing boats and other marine hardware. Many musical instruments are made from brass. Also decorative pieces, from light fittings to taps, and instruments for astronomy, surveying, navigation and other scientific purposes.
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