Copper Sheet is a flat-rolled form of high-purity copper known for its exceptional electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance, and superior workability. It is widely used in electrical, architectural, industrial, and decorative applications due to its durability, malleability, and excellent thermal performance.
Common grades include C11000 (Electrolytic Tough Pitch Copper) and C12200 (Phosphorus-Deoxidized Copper), offering reliable performance in both high-conductivity and structural environments.
Chemical Composition (Typical – C11000)
| Element | Typical % |
|---|---|
| Copper (Cu) | ≥ 99.90 |
| Oxygen (O) | 0.02 – 0.04 |
| Other Impurities | < 0.01 |
For brazing and hydrogen-exposed applications, phosphorus-deoxidized copper (C12200) is preferred.
Key Physical Properties
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 8.94 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | 1083°C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 385 – 401 W/m·K |
| Electrical Conductivity | 97 – 101% IACS |
| Coefficient of Expansion | 16.5 × 10⁻⁶ /°C |
| Magnetic Property | Non-magnetic |
| Crystal Structure | FCC |
| Reflectivity | High (IR & visible) |
Key Mechanical Properties
| Property | Annealed (Soft) | Half-Hard | Hard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 200 – 220 MPa | 250 – 300 MPa | 350 – 420 MPa |
| Yield Strength | ~70 MPa | ~200 MPa | ~350 MPa |
| Elongation | 35 – 45% | 10 – 20% | 2 – 5% |
| Hardness (HV) | 40 – 55 | 70 – 95 | 100 – 120 |
Annealed sheets are ideal for deep drawing and forming, while hard sheets are suited for structural and electrical busbar applications.
Strengthening & Metallurgical Behaviour
✔ FCC crystal lattice provides exceptional ductility
✔ Strength achieved primarily through cold rolling
✔ Annealing restores ductility
✔ No precipitation or phase hardening
Copper sheets rely on strain hardening rather than alloying.
Key Characteristics of Copper Sheet
✔ Exceptional electrical conductivity
✔ Superior heat dissipation
✔ Excellent corrosion resistance
✔ Easy forming, stamping, and bending
✔ Natural antimicrobial surface
✔ Smooth surface finish
✔ Fully recyclable
Refining & Processing Properties
Refining Process
Copper smelting and converting
Fire refining
Electrolytic refining (99.99% purity)
Controlled deoxidation (if required)
Sheet Manufacturing
Hot rolling
Cold rolling
Annealing (bright or normal)
Surface finishing (pickled / polished)
✔ Excellent formability
✔ Uniform thickness control
✔ Minimal work cracking
✔ High surface smoothness
Available Forms
Copper sheets (cut-to-size)
Copper plates (thicker sections)
Coils and strips
Laminated copper sheets
Polished / mirror finish sheets
Oxidized or patinated sheets
Thickness Range
0.1 – 6 mm (sheet)
> 6 mm (plate)
Applications of Copper Sheet
Electrical & Electronics
Busbars
Grounding plates
Transformer components
EMI/RFI shielding
Industrial & Thermal
Heat exchangers
Gaskets
Industrial liners
Architecture & Construction
Roofing and cladding
Domes and facades
Rainwater systems
Renewable Energy
Solar collectors
Wind turbine grounding
Medical & Hygiene
Antimicrobial surfaces
Hospital panels
Advantages of Copper Sheet
✔ Highest electrical conductivity among structural metals
✔ Excellent thermal performance
✔ Long service life (50–100 years)
✔ Natural corrosion resistance
✔ Aesthetic aging (patina)
✔ Easy fabrication
Why Choose Copper Sheet?
Choose Copper Sheet when your application demands maximum conductivity, efficient heat transfer, superior corrosion resistance, high formability, and long-term sustainability.
Engineering Insight:
Despite higher upfront cost, copper sheets deliver the lowest lifecycle cost
due to durability, efficiency, and recyclability.
Comparison with Alternatives
| Property | Copper | Aluminum | Steel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical Conductivity | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★ |
| Thermal Conductivity | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★ |
| Corrosion Resistance | ★★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★ |
| Formability | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★ |
| Service Life | ★★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ |
Sustainability & Lifecycle Benefits
✔ 100% recyclable
✔ No property loss on recycling
✔ Energy-efficient lifecycle
✔ Green building compatible