Copper

Anco precision prides itself on using the best materials around. One of these highly valued metals is copper. Copper has symbol of Cu on the periodic table of the elements, and ahs n atomic number of 29. Unlike some metals, copper is soft and bendable and highly conductive. It is widely used as a type of thermal and electrical conductor, building material and numerous alloys. Copper and its alloys have been used by man for thousands of years in the shaping of tools and weaponry. During Rome’s reign copper was mined on the island of Cyprus thus the name given to it at the time, Cyprium which later became Cuprum.

It literally translates into, metal of Cyprus. At current levels of consumption it is not believe that the known reserves can handle the demand. Also, many naturalists protest the mining of this metal due to the harmful effects that pit mining has on the surrounding landscape. Some of the best reserves known to exist are found in the U.S. and Chile. The green tint seen on many copper made structures and decorations is really corrosion of the metal itself. When certain types of copper are dissolve din water they can be used in wood preservatives and fungicides. If the amount of copper salts get to high in they can have damaging effects on animals.

What is s interesting about this metal is that the copper ion in lower concentrations is a key element to the survival of all living creatures (plant and animal) and is found inside our bodies. The highest concentrations in the human body are found in tissues, the liver, muscles and bones. Copper is actually in the same mineral family as gold and silver because of similarities in the formation of their metallic bonds. Copper, gold and silver are also known for their playability, softness and density.

Copper is easily bent and a great electrical conductor, these properties have helped it become a leading material in electric wiring and electronics manufacturing. Copper strange reddish, orange and brown coloring is due to a thin layer of oxidation (which gives it that tarnished appearance). Osmium, gold and copper are the only elements that have a natural color other than gray and silvery tints.

Copper was known to many ancient civilizations and has been used by humans dating back 10,000 years. Some speculate that may have first been used in the Middle East sometime around 9,000 BC. The different stages of mans evolution with tools have been named ‘ages’, thus the copper age. Stop by Anco precision machining and see if we can help you with your copper milling needs.