Copper
– Copper is one of the earliest metals discovered by man.
– The boilers on early steamboats were made from copper.
– The copper tubing used in water plumbing in Pyramids was found in serviceable condition after more than 5,000 years.
– Cu is a ductile metal. Pure Cu is soft and malleable, difficult to machine.
– Very high electrical conductivity – second only to silver.
– Copper is refined to high purity for many electrical
Applications
• Excellent thermal conductivity – Copper cookware most highly regarded – fast and uniform heating.
• Electrical and construction industries are the largest users of Cu.