Why is copper the universal favorite when it comes to using for electrical wiring? There are many reasons. From a technical point of view, copper wiring is preferred because of the high conductivity it offers – highest among all non-precious metals. Because of its higher conductivity, copper has been accepted as the international standard on various performance parameters.
When it comes to using metals in the form of wires for electrical wiring, copper is a clear winner. It scores over others because of its exceptionally high yield strength. Generally, pure metals have lower strength when compared to alloys as the formation of intermetallic can reduce the movement of dislocations within the structure.
Withstands Stress
Copper has the ability to withstand stress than low alloyed aluminum. This means that copper conductors can withstand pulling stresses to a greater level without breaking. Copper delivers a better performance consistently under comparable conditions. Copper wiring is naturally hard and hence is able to resist nicks and breakages. It is capable of providing a truly reliable performance because of its high durability.
Strong and Sturdy
If you are looking for a sturdy and solid connection for your electrical system, then copper is the best choice. It is highly resistant to corrosion and jells well with metals such as brass to provide connections that do not let you down. Copper being extremely flexible allows easy installation without having to use any special tools. The joints established with copper do not need any compounds for achieving better connectivity. The flexible nature of copper makes joining easy while the hardness of this amazing metal ensures that connections remain steady and secure.
Does Not Break or Stretch
A key feature of copper is the ability to stretch the metal into any kind of intricate surface without the risk of breaking. This makes it possible to create any type of product including a long stretch of wires. Copper can also be used for making wires of smaller diameters used for specific needs and situations because of its high ductility and malleability. Copper, despite being strong is easily pliable and hence can be drawn into wires that are durable and do not stretch or break. They are ideal for use at junction boxes and terminations in an electrical system.
Offers High Ductility
Because of its high ductility, copper is a metal that’s easy to work with in the electrical industry, especially when it comes to electrical wiring. Copper is naturally strong and is also hard and flexible. That’s why it is easy to handle on any kind of electrical project. Copper does not stretch, break or twist – these are properties that make an electrical wiring ideal. You can easily pull the wire through a conduit without the risk of stretching or damaging it.
Copper wires can be easily terminated at junction points without any risk of breaking or damage, unlike other metals. Copper wires offer the highest level of reliability and durability and that’s why they are perfect for any kind of wiring system. It is highly unlikely that copper wires will let you down.
Superior Conductivity
Copper continues to be the favorite of engineers and professionals serving the electrical industry because it offers good electrical and thermal conductivity and is highly resistant to corrosion. Copper also stands apart from other metals as it can be joined easily and ductile.
Copper’s superior electrical conductivity is the best among all non-precious metal. Good electrical conductivity is inherent in metals with small electrical resistance. All metals allow the flow of electric current but they have varying levels of resistance. Metals with a bigger resistance need to be acted upon by an external force such as a battery to keep the current flowing. Copper does not pose any problem as current flows through the metal effortlessly thanks to its low resistance. When electricity passes through copper wires, there is least resistance and less loss of energy. It optimizes the performance of the electrical system.
There are more reasons why copper wires are used in residential and commercial set ups. It offers all the favorable properties and features needed in an efficient and effective electrical system. Copper is not just used for making electrical wires. It is used in the form of a thick copper strip for making lightning conductors on tall buildings. Copper wire can be wound into a coil to produce a magnetic field that does not waste much electrical energy.
Offers High Resistance to Corrosion
In the reactivity series, copper ranks very low which means it does not corrode. This property of copper allows it to be used for making a variety of materials of which making electrical wires is one of the largest applications. For electricity to flow smoothly and without much resistance, the wires through which it flows must be in good shape. A metal that is corrosion free can ensure good performance.
Saves Money
Copper is also the best option when it comes to cost-effectiveness. While on a cost-to-cost basis, aluminum might appear to be a cheaper option, copper can save you money in the long run. If you consider the life-cycle cost of copper and take into account all aspects including the cost of installation, the tools and processes, and the maintenance and repairs, then copper is definitely the most affordable option. You need not use bigger conduits that for part of aluminum electrical wiring which means money saved. Copper wiring can be installed quickly and easily thus saving time and effort. No specialized tools and procedures are needed.
With copper wires, you need not shell out more money on any additional extra maintenance and repair tasks as copper wires are reputed for their consistently superior performance. The chances of any breakdown are less as copper is strong, ductile, malleable, durable, is one of the best conductors of electricity and known for high efficiency and easy handling.
All these qualities of copper wire make it the perfect wiring material for use in all types of wiring in homes and commercial establishments.