Copper Sheet: Timeless Material for Diverse Applications and Natural Aging
Celebrated for durability and aesthetic appeal, hold a place of prominence in various industries and artistic endeavors. With a natural ability to evolve/age over time, especially in outdoor environments, copper sheets offer a unique combination of functionality and visual appeal. This article delves into the uses of copper sheets and how they age gracefully when exposed to the elements.
Australian Metals supply sheet by either drawing from master coils or off the shelf product. This provides flexibility in sheet supply width, thickness and length (e.g. 6 metre lengths), we are the only suppliers in Australia who can offer this type of flexibility, in addition we can apply surface finishes like hammering for extra appeal
Property | Copper Alloy C10100 | Copper Alloy C11000 | Copper Alloy C12200 |
Tensile Strength (MPa) | 255 - 315 | 255 - 315 | 255 - 315 |
Hardness Range (Vickers) | 75 - 90 | 75 - 90 | 75-90 |
Yield Strength (MPa) | 170-190 | 170-190 | 170-190 |
IACS Conductivity (%) | Approx. 101 | Approx. 100 | Approx. 90 |
Chemical Composition - Copper (Cu) | Approx. 99.99% | Approx. 99.9% | Approx. 99.9% |
Chemical Composition - Other Elements | Oxygen (Trace amounts) | Oxygen, Phosphorus (Trace amounts) | Phosphorus (Trace amounts) |
| Alloy Grade | Length | Width | Thickness(mm) | Thickness (Gauge/AWG) | Weight | Quantity | Add to Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C10200 | 2400 mm | 1000 mm | 2.0 mm | 13 | 43.0 kg/sheet | | |
| C11000 | 2000 mm | 1000 mm | 2.0 mm | 13 | 35.9 kg/sheet | | |
| C11000 | 1800 mm | 900 mm | 3.0 mm | 11 | 43.5 kg/sheet | | |
| C12200 | 2400 mm | 1200 mm | 0.55 mm | 24 | 14.2 kg/sheet | | |
| C12200 | 2400 mm | 1200 mm | 0.7 mm | 22 | 18.0 kg/sheet | | |
| C12200 | 2400 mm | 1200 mm | 0.9 mm | 20 | 23.2 kg/sheet | | |
| C12200 | 2400 mm | 1200 mm | 1.2mm | 18 | 30.9 kg/sheet | | |
| C12200 | 2400 mm | 1200 mm | 1.6 mm | 16 | 41.2 kg/sheet | | |
| C11000 | 2440 mm | 1220 mm | 3.0 mm | 11 | 79.9 kg/sheet | | |
| C12200 | 3600 mm | 1200 mm | 1.6 mm | 16 | 61.8 kg/sheet | | |
| C12200 | 1800 mm | 900 mm | 1.6 mm | 16 | 23.2 kg/sheet | | |
| C11000 | 2000 mm | 1000 mm | 3.0 mm | 11 | 53.7 kg/sheet | | |
| C11000 | 2400 mm | 1000 mm | 2.0 mm | 13 | 43.0 kg/sheet | |
Please note that our stock sizes frequently change and not all sizes will be listed and may possibly be out of stock, please contact us to confirm
If you’re looking for thicker materials please feel free to check out our Copper Plate section for additional options
Properties
- Durability: Resistant to corrosion and extreme weather conditions.
- Malleability: Easily shaped and molded, ideal for custom designs.
- Conductivity: Excellent for thermal and electrical applications.
- Antimicrobial properties: Naturally inhibiting bacterial growth.
Uses:
- Architecture and Construction: widely used in roofing, cladding, and as architectural accents due to their durability and ease of installation.
- Interior Design: They add an elegant and warm touch to interiors, being used in countertops, backsplashes, and decorative panels.
- Art and Sculpture: Artists and sculptors value copper sheets for their flexibility and unique coloration, making them a favorite for intricate designs.
- Electrical Components: Due to high electrical conductivity, they are crucial in the manufacturing of circuit boards and electrical grounding components.
- Automotive Industry: used in radiators and for electrical wiring in vehicles.
- Medical Applications: Their antimicrobial properties make them suitable for use in medical facilities to reduce the spread of infections.
Aging in Outdoor Environments
Copper sheets undergo a fascinating transformation when exposed to the outdoor environment:
- Initial Stage: New copper sheets have a bright, metallic sheen with a finish known as “mill” for off the rolling mill finish.
- Weathering Process: Over time, copper reacts with the elements, undergoing oxidation. The surface starts to tarnish, losing its initial sheen and progressively turning a brown earthy colour.
- Patina Formation: The most notable aspect of copper aging is the development of a patina – a protective layer that forms over years of exposure. This patina is typically a verdigris (greenish) hue but can vary depending on the local climate and environmental factors.
- Durability Aspect: The patina not only enhances the sheet’s aesthetic appeal but also acts as a barrier, protecting the copper from further corrosion. This natural process ensures that copper sheets remain durable and maintenance-free for decades.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Copper is one of the most sustainable materials on the planet. Its durability and recyclability make it an eco-friendly choice for various applications. The long lifespan of copper sheets reduces the need for frequent replacements, contributing to sustainability in construction and design. As an added bonus in scenarios like roofing, large recouperation costs are available when scraping and replacing roofs after long life spans
Conclusion
Copper sheets represent a fusion of practicality and beauty. They are versatile, durable, and gain character over time, especially when used outdoors. This natural aging process, resulting in a distinctive patina, adds to their allure, making them a preferred material for architects, designers, and artists. Whether for functional or decorative purposes, copper sheets continue to be an invaluable material, offering a blend of timelessness and evolving beauty.