Copper Wire – Pros and Cons

Copper wire can be found in a wide variety of products, components and connections around the workplace. It has been long used and relied on to provide exceptional results. However, as technology continues to improve, many competitors have entered the market such as fibre optic. So, in today’s blog post, we will be looking at the pros and cons of copper wire. Our aim is to help you decide whether this is the right route and option for your needs. Firstly, let’s take a look at the pros of copper wire for network connections.

CONDUCTIVITY

Copper is one of the most conductive materials of electricity available. It stands only second to silver in the line up of metals. Therefore, it’s no surprise that it is regularly used in and alongside machinery that requires a reliable electrical connection. In contrast to other options, it can be used with less insulation and armoring, allowing you to be flexible with your set-up.

HEAT RESISTANCE

Another key benefit of copper wire is it’s resistance to heat. On the contrary, it is a good conductor of heat and can be used in appliances where it needs reliable corrosion protection. It also has a high melting point, offering longevity over the years.

CORROSION RESISTANCE

Copper has a low reactivity rating. In turn, this means it has a high corrosion resistance which reduces the risk of deterioration and failure. For connection purposes, this ensures a strong link and reliability over the years. And, for budget conscious environments, it minimises the need for costly and repeat replacements.

MALLEABILITY

Malleability is a material’s ability to be shaped into the desired shape without breaking. Copper has a high malleability rating. This allows it to be hammered or rolled into sheets or bent into any direction without the risk of snapping. In electrical settings, the thick wires can be twisted around corners or moulded to fit the available space exactly.

DUCTILITY

Ductility is a material’s ability to withstand high tensile stress. This is any force that pulls two ends of the material away from each other. This is how copper wires are made – the material is stretched into a thin wire. And, for professional use, these wires need to maintain their strength without becoming brittle. And now, the Cons.

CANNOT CONTROL ELECTRICAL SURGES

Copper wires are not normally able to perform well with very exact amounts of electrical charges. For example, when used in automotive parts or semi-conductors. They don’t offer the stability needed to minimise electrical surges and, thereby, minimising damage.

EMI (ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE)

Copper wire produces a ‘field of interference’ when used for electrical purposes. This can interfere with signal, have an impact on safety and cause a connection to become unstable. In settings with a high degree of wiring, many opt for fibre optics which work with light rather than electric. RCL is experts when it comes to professional-grade wiring and connections. If you have any questions about copper wires or fibre optics, get in contact with the team here today.