Copper is the only metal that is more conductive than silver. As a result, electricity can pass through it more easily, making it ideal for use in electrical wires. Other conductive metals can be used by businesses to make electrical wires
Fremont, CA: Copper is used in a wide range of applications, including electrical wires. A power cable for a TV, computer, kitchen appliance or construction tool is almost certainly made of copper. With the atomic number 29, this red-brown metal has become indispensable in our daily lives by powering a plethora of devices. But, since copper isn't the only material capable of transmitting electricity, why is it used to make electrical wires?
Increased Conductivity
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Copper is the only metal that is more conductive than silver. As a result, electricity can pass through it more easily, making it ideal for use in electrical wires. Other conductive metals can be used by businesses to make electrical wires. Unless they use silver, the high conductivity properties of copper allow electrical current to travel a greater distance. Companies can use copper instead of most other conductive metals to create longer, higher-performing electrical wires.
High Ductility
Copper is not only conductive, but it is also ductile. In other words, copper can be bent and flexed to some extent without breaking or otherwise being damaged. What is the significance of this? Electrical wires must frequently pass through floors, walls, ceilings, and other confined spaces. As a result, they will naturally bend and snake their way around the house or building where they are used. Copper's ductile properties allow copper electrical wires to bend and flex. They will continue to transmit electricity and will not lose any power strength due to shape deformity.
Thermal Resistant
Thermal resistance is an often-overlooked advantage of copper electrical wires. Electrical fires are responsible for over 51,000 residential house fires in the US each year, according to ESFI, and that doesn't include commercial/business fires. Because copper electrical wires are heat resistant, they are safer to use than wires made of most other conductive metals.
Low Cost
Copper is also relatively cheap in comparison to other metals. Gold, for example, is an excellent electrical conductor, but it is several times more expensive than copper. Companies would essentially waste money if they used gold to make electrical wires because copper is more conductive and less expensive than gold. This alone justifies making copper the de facto standard for electrical wires.
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