Metallurgy of Copper
Copper is one of the oldest and most important metals ever used by man. Its malleability and ductility have seen it be used a wide range of applications and the fact that is can be recycled safety, makes it a very important material in modern society. This essay looks at the metallurgy of copper, examining its Chemical composition, shapes and alloys.
Chemical Composition
Copper is primarily comprised of copper (Cu) and an element known as oxygen (O) with a trace amount of carbon (C). The standard name for pure copper is known as Cu-OF (99.35% copper, .15% oxygen and .50% carbon). There are also different grades of copper, each with their own chemical composition. These include Copper 6-05 (99.80% copper, .10% oxygen and .10% carbon) and Copper 6-13 (99.86% copper, .10% oxygen and .04% carbon).
Shapes
Copper can be found in a variety of shapes, from large metal sheets to thin wires. The shape that copper is available in depends on its intended purpose. For instance, copper sheets are usually used for electrical applications, as they provide a good way of conducting electricity and can easily be cut to any size. Conversely, thin copper wires are often used in decorative items and art projects due to the fact that they are malleable and can be bent.
Alloys
As copper is malleable and ductile, it is often used to create alloys. Copper alloys are made by combining different elements such as zinc, lead, tin and nickel. These alloys have enhanced mechanical, physical and chemical properties over those of pure copper and can be used in a number of different applications. Some of the more commonly used copper alloys include brass (made with zinc), bronze (made with tin) and nickel silver (made with nickel).
Conclusion
Copper has been used in a vast number of applications for centuries, due to its malleability and ductility. Its Chemical composition, shapes and alloys are all derived from pure copper. Different grades and alloys exist, each with their own unique properties and uses. Copper remains an important material in modern society, and is frequently seen in electronics, engineering and decorative pieces.
