When it comes to electrical conductivity, formability, and appearance, few metals rival copper. At Winco Stamping, we frequently use copper to produce stamped parts for a wide range of industries and applications.
If you’re evaluating copper for your next project, this guide highlights what you need to know.
Where are Copper Stamped Parts Used?
Copper stamped parts show up in numerous industries, particularly:
Lighting
Copper is an excellent conductor, which makes it a natural choice as a stamped part in the lighting industry. Beyond its conductivity, the appealing finish eliminates the need for decorative secondary services.
Furniture
Compared to other aesthetically pleasing materials, copper is inexpensive to use, making it a popular choice for furniture hardware.
Restaurants
Plenty of commercial restaurant equipment utilizes copper stamped parts.
Key Considerations When Working with Copper
Copper is one of the most workable materials for metal stamping, but it performs best when a few design and process considerations are kept in mind.
- Avoid sharp corners and tight bend radii to prevent cracking during forming. Copper’s softness makes it easy to shape, but also more vulnerable to stress in sharp transitions.
- Multiple stamping passes and annealing steps may be required to preserve ductility and corrosion resistance – especially for complex parts or tight tolerances.
- Efficient material use is key as copper costs continue to rise. Undamaged scrap can often be reused, making smart material management both practical and economical.
- Strict quality control is essential, particularly for copper parts used in electrical or thermal applications. These industries demand precision and consistency as it directly impacts performance.
Advantages of Copper Stamped Parts
Copper offers key benefits that differentiate it from other metals used for stamping, including:
Corrosion Resistance
One of the top benefits of this material is that it does not deteriorate when exposed to the elements.
Ductility
Using copper helps to ensure structural safety, allowing components to be shaped and bent without immediate failure.
Cost-Effective
When looking for a conductive material, copper is the most cost-effective option, especially compared to other highly conductive metals like silver.
Know the Difference: Copper vs. Brass
Copper is a natural element and in its original form is known as native copper. Brass, however, is a combination of copper and zinc, which makes it an alloy. The addition of zinc gives brass different mechanical properties and a distinct golden appearance.
While they may look similar at a glance, copper and brass serve different purposes in stamped parts. Copper excels in conductivity and formability, while brass offers greater strength and a lower material cost. Choosing the right one depends on your part’s function, finish needs, and performance expectations.
Want to Know More About Copper Stamped Parts? Contact Winco Stamping Today
Winco Stamping has been a premier metal stamping service provider since 1948. Proudly located in Menomonmee, Wisconsin, we work with multiple types of metals — copper included — on a daily basis and can work with you to create the parts you require.
As an ISO 9001-certified company, quality is central to everything that leaves our facility. We only create and deliver the finest copper stamped parts.
Think copper stamping is for you? Contact us today and see the difference we can make for your next project.
