Electrical Applications

Copper has made possible the continued, efficient development of the electrical industry because it has the highest conductivity of the commercial metals. In addition, it has ideal mechanical properties at low, ambient and elevated temperatures, is easily fabricated or cast to shape and can be readily machined. It has excellent resistance to oxidation and corrosion. The thin oxide layer that does form is conductive, meaning that good joints have a long service life. From high voltage transmission cables to microcircuits, and from megawatt generators to computers, in every aspect of electricity generation, transmission and use, copper is the vital, energy efficient metal.

Information on compositions, applications and properties of high conductivity coppers can be found in the ‘High Conductivity Coppers’ section

Good practice electrical design of installations ensures good power quality, reliability, energy efficiency and safety. Information on energy efficiency, power quality and earthing can be found in the publications listed in the ‘Energy Efficiency’ and ‘Electrical Design’ sections.

High Conductivity Coppers

Energy Efficiency

Electrical Design