Abstract
The relative importance of rolled versus extruded and drawn copper products is discussed in the context of the 41% increase in total world copper consumption which has taken place in the last decade. The present paper discusses not only flat shapes, but also copper wire rod, for which hot rolling is an integral stage in the manufacturing sequence. The dominant part played by electrical conductivity requirements explains why the electrical industry accounts for 73% of Western European markets for rolled copper-base products. Statistical data are presented for principal applications in this sector, as well as other major user-industries, namely transport, domestic appliances, general engineering, and construction. The main technical trends influencing present and future demand for rolled copper-base products are discussed and, where data are available, these trends are compared and contrasted with markets for rolled products in the USA and Japan.
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