Common Uses for Copper

Copper has a long history of decorative and functional purposes. In fact, this easily-identifiable golden/reddish material dates back thousands of years. Currently, copper exists in our homes, vehicles, and electronic devices. Today, I'll cover some unique properties and common uses for this versatile, time-tested alloy. 

Unique Properties of Copper

Alloy 110 Copper, also known as Electrolytic Tough Pitch (ETP), is an alloy with good ductility and good electrical and thermal conductivity. It has excellent resistance to weathering and soil corrosion and antimicrobial properties. Additionally, Alloy 110 is soft, malleable, and 100% recyclable. 

Common Uses for Copper

Whenever you flip on a light in your home, turn on the sink, or heat leftovers in the microwave, copper is the element delivering the water and electricity to you. Due to its ductility and electrical/thermal conductivity, copper is one of the most valuable alloys in our everyday lives.

COPPER USES IN THE HOME

Did you know that the average single-family home uses 439 pounds of copper? From the wiring in the walls to the plumbing pipes, copper is everywhere you turn. Because it’s naturally resistant to weathering and soil corrosion, copper is ideal for roofing and plumbing applications. Some of the most common uses of copper in the home include: 

• Wiring and plumbing 
• Door knobs and pull handles
• Lighting fixtures 
• Gutters 
• Clocks 
• Jewelry 
• Art
• Musical instruments

COPPER USES IN PUBLIC

Copper is not just resistant to weathering and corrosion, but it’s also resistant to microbes and bacteria. Several studies have found that a surface made with copper-based alloys can reduce the transmission of disease-causing bacteria by as much as 58%! Because of this, copper is a popular material for the manufacturing of doorknobs and handrails in public buildings. Some other common uses for copper in public include: 

• Slot machines 
• Bridges and toll roads 
• Dry cleaning machines
• Rental golf carts 
• Public transportation 
• Amusement games 

Copper is an essential component in brass, phosphor bronze, and beryllium copper. To create these metal products, copper is combined with other metals (tin, zinc, and phosphorus). It lends its coloring, malleability, and other unique properties to these metals.