You may see copper every day in the pennies in your purse, or you may hear it changing the tone of musical instruments, but there is no doubt that this metal is ubiquitous in everyday life. You may be surprised to know just how many common items and processes use copper.
Electronics
Copper is an excellent electrical conductor, and its most common use is in wiring and electronics. This ranges from supplying power to homes and businesses to more complex circuitry for specialist electronic devices.
Construction
Both durable and versatile, copper is a popular construction material. Its colour may change but it will not rust, making it ideal for roofs, gutters and railings that may be exposed to the elements, but that need to remain aesthetically pleasing.
Plumbing
Plumbers use copper pipes and copper pipe connectors, such as those at watkinspowis.co.uk/products/copper-pipe-fittings-and-press-systems , because they are strong, able to resist extreme temperatures and pressures and unlikely to cause contamination.
Industry
Another way in which copper acts as a conductor is by transmitting heat. This makes it valuable for many industrial applications where temperature needs to be regulated. It can also be found in generators, motors and many other machines.
Kitchenware
Pots and pans are often made from copper thanks to its ability to withstand high temperatures and ensure that heat is evenly distributed when cooking. Copper kitchenware also creates a warm and welcoming aesthetic in your home.
Jewellery
For all its practical purposes, copper is an aesthetically pleasing material that can be used to create beautiful and intricate pieces of jewellery, or to decorate other items of homeware, whilst remaining strong and durable.
Medicine
Surfaces and instruments in medical settings may be made from copper because it has antimicrobial properties, making it a valuable tool of infection control. It can also be used for radio frequency shielding in MRI rooms.
This is just a small selection of the many uses of copper, but it shows just how valuable this metal is in the modern world. That is why there is continued pressure to find new and more sustainable sources.
