United Wire Technology, Inc. offers quality copper-based wire that can be used as a conductor for transmitting electrical signals in numerous applications. Compared to other wiring materials, copper requires less insulation, is more malleable, and offers a host of other benefits that make it the preferred choice for various industries and applications.
Copper-Based Wire Explained
Copper-based wire is a type of wire that is primarily composed of copper, a highly ductile and conductive metal. However, it is also often combined with other metals to form copper alloy wire, which can include elements such as:
- Zinc
- Tin
- Nickel
- Silicon
- and more
Copper is a popular wiring material primarily due to its excellent electrical conductivity. Depending on the properties needed for the intended application, copper wire properties can be altered by alloying it with other elements, such as those listed above.
Benefits of Copper-Based Wire
Copper-based wire offers various benefits, including:
- Conductivity. Copper wires are second only to silver in terms of electrical conductivity. Compared to other non-precious metals, copper wires can withstand a larger load of electric power, allowing it to require less armoring or insulation.
- Heat and corrosion resistance. Copper-based wire has a high resistance to heat, reducing the risk of overloading issues. It is also highly resistant to corrosion.
- Malleability and ductility. Copper is very ductile, meaning wires can be stretched thinner than human hair strands. Because of its malleability, it can be bent into nearly any form without breaking.
- Low losses. Copper wire has low losses, meaning less signal is lost as it travels along the wire. This results in higher-quality signal transmission.
- Reliability. Copper wire and cable are highly reliable and less likely to experience outages compared to other cable types. Copper wires are also not affected by weather conditions, making them an ideal choice for outdoor applications.
Applications of Copper-Based Wire
Because of copper-based wire’s great electrical conductivity, malleability, and heat resistance, it is a preferred choice for a wide variety of applications, such as:
- Electrical wiring. Copper is often used as a conductor for various types of electrical wire. Electrical wiring in buildings and homes is the most important market for the copper industry.
- Power generation, transmission, and distribution. Copper wire is commonly used to generate, transmit, and distribute power for applications such as electronics circuitry, telecommunications, and many other types of electrical equipment.
- Automotive. Technological advances have increased the demand for copper wire in vehicles. Copper wires can be easily bent to fit into tight places within vehicles and offer a high melting point, meaning they can be used in areas that see regular temperature changes. Common uses include battery cables, electrical components, airbags, and shielding products.
- Aerospace. Its electrical and thermal conductivity make copper wire ideal for aerospace applications such as cabin management systems, airframe wiring, and more.
- Industrial machinery. Copper-based wires are found in numerous types of industrial machinery, including robotics, factory automation, industrial heating, mining equipment, and more.
Copper-Based Wire From United Wire Technologies
Copper-based wires offer many beneficial properties that make them a great choice for various applications across a diverse range of industries. United Wire Technologies, Inc. offers high-quality copper-based wire products that meet your unique needs. For more information about the types of copper wire we offer, or to get started on your custom solution, contact us or request a quote today.