All categories
Featured selections
Trade Assurance
Buyer Central
Help Center
Get the app
Become a supplier

About thick copper sheet

Types of Thick Copper Sheet

Thick copper sheet is a malleable and ductile metal with high thermal and electrical conductivity. The metal is mostly used in electrical applications, as it efficiently transfers heat and electric current. Below are some common types of thick copper sheets.

Dead Soft Copper Sheets

Dead soft copper sheets are annealed to be non-hardened. Therefore, it is easy to bend, stretch, and stake the sheets to form various shapes. Watchmakers, jewelers, and metal workers prefer using these types of copper sheets, as they easily work with them for fine precision tasks.

Half Hard Copper Sheets

Half hard copper sheets are slightly flexible and can hold shapes better than the soft copper sheet. It is obtained by partially annealing dead-soft copper. Wire and tubing manufacturers prefer using these sheets, as they can draw and shape without the material snapping.

Hard Copper Sheets

Hard copper sheets are not malleable and are difficult to bend or shape. Many manufacturers use this type of copper where additional strength and wear resistance is needed. Upon purchase, hard sheets can be tempered to different hardness ratings.

Electrolytic Tough Pitch Copper Sheets

Of all kinds, electrolytic tough pitch copper sheets are the most common. They contain 99.90% copper and use a refining method that incorporates a small amount of phosphorus, reducing voids that impede conductivity. This copper sheet is ideal for electric motors and wiring. Cases of thick copper sheets can be used to make ETPC since it has high conductivity.

Architectural Copper Sheet

Architectural copper sheet is a versatile metal in construction and design with a thickness of up to 22 gauge. It is popular for cladding, roofing, and decorative elements. It is durable and corrosion resistant and develops a patina over time. The patina gives copper a unique aesthetic value.

Industrial Applications of Thick Copper Sheet

Thick copper sheet is valuable in many industries due to durability, fabrication ease, and resistance to corrosion. It transfers heat and electric current and is used in the following applications:

Electrical and Electronic Components

Thick copper sheets are ideal for making electrical contacts, terminals, and buss bars. These components require copper with good conductivity and enough thickness to handle heavy electrical current without warping or frying.

Manufacturing of Copper Alloys

Copper sheets can be combined to create an alloy with copper's desirable qualities for a specific use. For example, adding zinc creates brass, while nickel addition creates cupronickel. These alloys are useful in many applications ranging from jewelry to industrial machinery.

Heat Exchangers

Many materials used to construct radiators, air conditioning units, and heat pumps contain thick copper sheets. These appliances transfer heat efficiently, requiring copper with high resistance to corrosion and good thermal conductivity.

Tools and Machinery Parts

The copper sheet can be used to make gears, bearings, and shafts in machinery. Car parts like radiators also have thick copper platting, increasing durability and reducing wear in high-friction areas.

Medical Devices

Thick copper sheets are ideal for making electrodes in medical equipment. These electrodes are used for conducting electric on electrocardiograms and other electrical stimulation and measurement devices. Biocompatibility makes copper a suitable material for medical devices.

Aerospace Applications

Thick copper sheets make aircraft components like heat shields and wiring because of their lightweight and strength. Thick sheets can also stand extreme temperatures and environmental conditions in space.

Product Specifications and Features of Thick Copper Sheet

Specifications

Features that make copper sheets versatile and ideal for various applications, such as construction or electrical parts, include thickness, alloy composition, and tempering.

  • Thickness

    Thick copper sheets come in various thicknesses that suit different needs. Most copper sheets are in a range of 0.5 mm to 3 mm thickness.

  • Alloy Composition

    Most copper sheets are pure and comprise 99.9% copper like the ETPC sheets. Nonetheless, some sheets are copper alloys like bronze and brass that contain varying percentages of zinc, tin, or other metals. These alloy compositions aim to enhance specific properties, such as strength and corrosion resistance.

  • Dimensions

    Thick copper sheets are available in standard and customizable sizes. Nevertheless, common lengths are 48 inches, and typical widths are 36 inches.

Features

  • Malleability and Ductility: Thick copper sheets can easily be shaped into desired forms, as they are highly flexible.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Most thick copper sheets are resistant to water, chemicals, and environmental elements.
  • Thermal and Electrical Conductivity: Copper sheets are ideal for heat transfer applications due to their superior conductivity.
  • Durability: Thick copper sheets can withstand extreme conditions, including temperature variations and corrosion for long periods.

What to Consider When Buying Thick Copper Sheet

Thick copper sheets are highly durable and resistant to rust. Thus, they are ideal for various uses, including construction and industrial purposes. Here are the factors to consider when buying these copper sheets in bulk.

End Use

Buyers should consider the application purpose when purchasing thick metal sheets in bulk. For example, thicker copper sheets, which are 1 inch thick, are ideal for electrical connections, while 0.25 copper sheets are suitable for structural applications.

Gauge

Gauge refers to the thickness of the copper sheet being worn and should be considered. The gauge affects the workability and durability of the copper. Thick copper sheets of more than 1 mm are ideal for industries with heavy workloads dealing with high-impact activities.

Alloy

Consider the alloy of the copper sheet to ensure it gives the desired result. Copper sheets are made of pure copper and copper alloys, such as bronze and brass, which contain varying copper and zinc ratios. Each alloy has varying benefits, such as increased sheet strength or workability.

Finish

Copper sheets are available in different finishes. Therefore, buyers should choose between polished, brushed, and matte finish sheets depending on their clients' preference and application purpose. Polished copper sheets are ideal for electrical and mechanical uses requiring a clean surface. At the same time, brushed and matte finishes are suitable for architectural uses where aesthetics and corrosion resistance are a factor.

Fabrication

Consider the method of metal handling the bulk copper sheets have gone through. When purchasing copper sheets in bulk, business owners should seek sheets that have been handled to prevent tarnishing and bending metal.

Useful Scenarios for Thick Copper Sheet

Electrical

Thick copper has applications in electrical components such as circuit boards, wires, and connectors. Its conductivity helps in efficiently transferring electricity. Therefore, many manufacturers use thick copper sheets to make these components needing high conductivity and strength.

Industrial Manufacturing

This metal is resistant to corrosion and easily paired with other metals. Thus, thick copper sheets are ideal for making machines. Many industries use these sheets to fabricate parts that will tolerate chemicals, moisture, and heat, increasing longevity.

Construction

Thick copper sheets are ideal roofing materials in the building industry. They have unmatched durability and corrosion resistance, which makes copper sheets suitable in harsh weather conditions.

Art and Decor

These sheets are malleable and easy to fabricate; hence, they are used to create artwork, sculptures, and decorative elements. Copper's aesthetic appeal makes it a popular choice for designers and artists, as it gives structures a unique look.

Jewelry Making

Thick copper sheets are used to make hypoallergenic jewelry such as earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Crafters and artisans prefer these sheets because they are cost-effective, making copper jewelry accessible without sacrificing quality.

Heat Exchangers

Thick copper sheet metal is ideal for heat exchangers in HVAC systems. Properties such as thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance make copper sheets suitable to efficiently transfer heat and withstand environmental elements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Thick Copper Sheet

Q1. What is the copper sheet's HF finish?

A1. HF, which means home fashioned finished copper sheets, are copper sheets finished by hand using a brushing tool. They offer a unique look with distinct lines and a textured surface. The texture increases friction, making it ideal for stylish countertops.

Q2. What is the best way to clean thick copper sheets?

A2. Use warm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth to clean copper sheets. Avoid using steel wool or anything abrasive, as this could scratch or dent the surface. To restore copper's shine, apply a commercial copper cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and salt. Rinse and dry the sheet thoroughly.

Q3. How are thick copper sheets stored?

A3. To prevent thick copper sheets from tarnishing when in storage, keep them in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated space. Maintain copper sheets in a single stack, separated by a soft cloth to avoid scratching or denting. For long-term storage, wrap copper in anti-tarnish cloth or paper to minimize exposure to air.

Q4. Is thick copper sheet recyclable?

A4. Yes. Copper sheets withstand multiple recycling processes without losing quality. Recycling copper sheets helps conserve the environment as they reduce mining activities.

Q5. How to choose the right gauge of copper sheet?

A5. When buying thick copper sheets in bulk, consider the typical applications of the customers. If customers use copper sheets for intricate work, choose lower gauges, such as 1 mm. However, if commonly used in structural or industrial applications, go for higher gauge numbers, like 4 mm.