Copper wires are a fundamental component of electrical systems owing to their excellent conduction property and strength. With the availability of various types to offer differing properties, strengths and durability, their usage depends on specific requirements. But what are those copper wires types and applications? Understanding them is crucial to making the right choice. So, let’s begin understanding the types of copper electric wire.
Types of Copper Wires
Copper wires come in various forms, and each form has a different appropriate use. The varying types of copper wires are:
Solid Copper Wire
Being the most commonly used kind of copper wires, these are the solid ones comprising a single strand of copper. They have top-notch conduction capability and, hence, low resistance. They are used in both residential and commercial electrical systems and exhibit high durability and reliability.
The diameter of solid copper wire is measured in a gauge with low numbers indicating it to be a thicker wire. The solid copper wire finds applications in connecting outlets, light fixtures, retail shops, industries and others.
Stranded Copper Wire
Among the different kinds of copper wires, they offer flexibility and strength owing to the presence of multiple strands of copper rather than one. They also enable frequent bending or movement and are colour-coded for easy identification. The number of strands and thickness of each strand is an indicator of the gauge of the wire.
The increase in gauge is directly proportional to the flexibility. The application of stranded copper wire is seen in manufacturing plants, fluctuating electrical loads, machinery and automotive wiring.
Tinsel Wire
Here, the copper wires are present in very thin strand form and wrapped in polyester film. It enhances the flexibility, making them suitable for applications demanding movement. Further, the presence of polyester film imparts protection and long life. The common usage of these types of copper wire is witnessed in diagnostic tools, monitoring devices, mobile phones and headphones.
Braided Copper Wire
As evident by the name, the copper wire is present in braided form. It further increases the flexibility and durability of the wire. It also positively influences electrical conductivity, making them functional in harsh environments. The common applications are witnessed in battery cables, wiring harnesses, grounding systems, computers, televisions and appliances.
Bare Copper Wire
In bare copper wire, the copper lacks the presence of coating or insulation. These are traditional forms of copper wire that are also cost-effective. The bare copper wires are easily available and, being in a pure form, exhibit excellent electrical conductivity. Their applications include usage in electrical grounding and for DIY purposes.
Copper Clad Aluminum Wire
In these kinds of copper wires, the aluminium wire is the core coated with a thin copper layer. Aluminium is used to reduce the cost, while copper offers high conductivity. Overall, the resistance here is more than that of the pure copper wire. These wires are found in applications in telecommunications and audio systems. It is also the preference for electrical wires at residential and commercial properties where cost reduction determines the choice of wire.
Specialised Copper Wires
Apart from the ones mentioned above, the other different types of copper wires that exist are:
- Enameled copper wire offers corrosion resistance. Some of these also have insulation between the outer coating and conductor, while others comprise steel filaments for better strength.
- Copper alloy wire is available in different forms, such as titanium, brass, zirconium and bronze. It is used due to its high durability, strength and solderability.
- Beryllium copper wire offers multiple features, such as non-magnetic and non-sparking ability with the strength of copper. The applications have high conductivity, flexibility, and corrosion resistance.
- Tinned copper wire also offers corrosion resistance owing to the thin tin coating that prevents oxidation. It enhances soldering properties due to the inability to form oxide on the surface during the process.
- Titanium-clad copper wire is another combination that offers corrosion resistance and good conductivity. The usage is seen in industries dealing with power generation, desalination and chemical processing.
- Copper nickel and nickel plated copper wire are also known for their corrosion resistance and high conductivity.
- Oxygen-free copper wires are free from impurities and are highly conductive for both thermal and electricity use. They are used in superconductors.
Uses Of Copper Wires
The different kinds of copper wires, owing to their high electrical conductivity, have a wide number of uses. They are enlisted here:
- In domestic electrical wiring and as antennas for radio waves
- To supply electricity in residences, factories and offices
- In electrical circuits of television and computer
- In the aerospace industry for airframe wiring, cabin management systems and inflight entertainment
- In the telecommunication industry High Digital Subscriber Lines (HSDL) and Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Lines (ADSL)
- For mining operations, robotics, industrial heating, factory automation, watercraft applications
- In the automobile industry at charging stations, in shielding products, battery cables, airbags, and busbars for EV battery interconnects
Conclusion
With copper wires different types, the suitability of each is dependent on their purpose. Selecting the right one is based on specific functionality, environment, budget and performance requirements. Exhibiting high electrical conductivity, its varying forms include braided, stranded, tinsel, tinned and alloy wires.
By now, you must be clear about your specific requirements. So, what’s the wait for? Head to L&T-SuFin to shop for your requirements with ease. With availability in bulk, we meet all your needs through top brands. The product’s price can be requested as per the requirement and is always affordable. Do you have any worries? Connect with us now, or just begin shopping.
FAQ
How many types of copper wire are there?
There are multiple types of copper wire. The list includes bare, tinned, copper, braided and stranded copper wire, and others.
Which winding is better, copper or aluminium?
Copper possesses high electrical conductivity, making it a better option than aluminium.
Is copper wire hard or soft?
Copper is considered a soft metal, and hence, pure copper wire is soft. However, the wires are hardened through different mechanical processes.
Top Blogs
Top Products