Chemical Properties of Copper

Elemental copper has a density of 8954.32 kg/m3 (559 lb/ ft³) and a melting point of 1083°C(1981° F).

It has excellent electrical and thermal conductivities and is malleable and readily formed and machined; however, it exhibits relatively poor mechanical properties.

Therefore, it must be cold worked or alloyed to improve its strength.

Copper also possesses good corrosion resistance. It is below the noble metals and nickel in the galvanic series but above stainless steel.

Commercially pure copper contains a minimum of 99.3% copper.

It is used primarily in electrical and electronic applications, in metallic motor vehicle radiators, in tubing for hydraulic and fuel lines, and in tubing and pipe for potable water systems.

Copper is also used in downspouts, flashing, gutters, roofing, screening, and exterior cladding in architectural applications.

High copper alloys contain a minimum of 96% copper if in the wrought form and 94% an>copper if in the cast form.

The high copper alloys have better mechanical properties than the commercially pure copper and about the same corrosion resistance.

this article is taken from: MATERIAL DETERIORATION PREVENTION AND CONTROL GUIDE FOR ARMY MATERIEL, PARTONE, METALS - Mil HDBK-73S (MR) 15 JANUARY 1993