Copperlining

Copperlining is a technique used in the production of copper wire and cable, where a layer of copper is deposited onto a non-conductive core. This process involves several steps. First, a non-conductive core, such as polyethylene or polypropylene, is drawn into a thin tube. Then, a layer of copper is electroplated onto the inner surface of the tube. The tube is then drawn down to the desired diameter, and the excess copper is removed from the outer surface. Finally, the copper-lined tube is annealed to improve its ductility and flexibility. Copperlining is used to produce flexible, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant electrical conductors. It is commonly used in applications such as automotive wiring, telecommunications cables, and power cables for marine and industrial use. The technique offers several advantages over solid copper conductors, including reduced weight, improved flexibility, and enhanced corrosion resistance. However, it may have higher initial costs and may not be suitable for high-current applications due to its lower conductivity compared to solid copper.