Different Industries that Benefit from Copper and Brass Sales

Who would have thought that a relatively expensive metal such as copper is actually utilized in massive amounts for a wide range of applications? Unlike aluminum and iron, which make up around 15 percent of the Earth’s crust, copper (along with its many alloys) is low-abundance metal and not easy to mine and process. Yet many industries don’t mind making incredibly large investments in this highly valuable metal and it’s not difficult to understand why. Here are top five industries that benefit from copper and brass sales and why they do.

Construction

You may think that the only metals used in construction are steel and iron. After all, these are the metals commonly used for making trusses and reinforcements. In truth, a great deal of metallic fixtures found in buildings are made of copper and its alloy. As a matter of fact, copper alloys dominate one of the most critical aspects of construction—plumbing. Most of the tubes and pipes used for conveying water and sewage are copper-based. Common fixtures, such as door knobs, hinges, locks, and handles are made of copper alloys, too. This should not come as a surprise, though, because the metal is known for its extreme durability and corrosion resistance, properties that are heavily needed in those applications. In fact, copper is vastly utilized in construction that 43 percent of annual copper production goes to this industry.

Electrical and Electronics

Around 19 percent of copper produced in the U.S. is manufactured into electrical wires and electronic products. This metal is preferred for these applications due to its high malleability, ductility, and electrical conductivity. Unlike silver that burns when used to convey high voltage of electricity, copper maintains its safe form under high temperatures. Such properties also make copper the best material for producing some essential electronic parts, including connectors, circuitry wiring and contacts, printed circuit boards, micro-chips, and semi-conductors among many others.

Transportation

Copper alloys are key in the manufacture of the core components of virtually all kinds of vehicle. Among them are radiators and oil coolers as well as on-board navigation and anti-lock braking systems. All the wiring for glass defrost systems, fittings, fasteners, brass screws, and hydraulic lines are made of copper alloys, too. It’s no wonder 19 percent of all the country’s copper production are delivered to transportation equipment manufacturers.

Industrial Machinery and Equipment

Most manufacturing companies use customized, heavy-duty machineries that run for many hours a day to produce a certain number of products. These machines last lengthy operations without sustaining sufficient wear and tear, thanks to copper alloys that they are made of. Unlike other metals, copper alloys such as brass and bronze also have high thermal coefficient, which allows them to withstand high temperatures.

Consumer and General Products

Copper is found in many areas of the home as well, in the form or furniture and decorative fixtures. It the kitchen, you’ll see some of your pots and pans made of this metal. Most calorifiers for water heating and refrigeration units are copper-based as well. This metal is also the base material for making some of the key parts of other everyday items, including magnetics, clocks, and watches.

Learning about the different applications of copper and its many alloys may help you come up with useful ideas for your projects. However, be careful not to pick substandard materials to ensure the high quality of your output. Purchase your materials from a reputable supplier such as Rotax Metals.

About Rotax Metals: In operation since 1948, Rotax Metals is one of the longest running metal supplier in North America. With decades of experience in providing copper, brass, and bronze supplies to all kinds of customers, including builders, artisans, and distributors, we are confident that we can meet all your metal needs. Whether you need tubes, angles, or sheets for your project, we’ve got your covered. Get in touch with us so that we can answer your queries and guide you through your choices.

Sources:

Copper, minerals.usgs.gov

Learn About the Common Uses of Copper, thebalance.com