Choosing the Perfect Copper Sheet From 28 Gauge to 16 Gauge

What is a copper sheet?

The copper sheet is a heavy metal sheet-like object made of metallic copper. Its color is reddish brown. It is highly malleable and machinable.

Advantages of copper sheet

1. Excellent conductivity

The conductivity of copper is very stable. Even in the harsh environment with high temperature and humidity, its conductivity won't be almost changed significantly. In addition, the loss of electronic energy for copper is very small and almost never converted into thermal energy.

2. Good thermal conductivity

The principle that copper sheets can conduct heat is because of the unique physical and electronic structure of the copper. Copper is a good conductor. Its crystalline system is a face centered cubic crystal system which gives it extremely high thermal conductivity. In the meantime, the special properties of the electronic structure of copper atoms also endow them with strong thermal conductivity.

3. Excellent corrosion resistance

Copper reacts with oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water vapor in the air to form a dense oxide film. And this film will protect the internal copper from further oxidation. Then the performance of copper sheets is stable in various environments.

4. Extraordinary formability

We can get the shape and size we want from copper sheets by a series of processing processes such as cutting, bending, stamping, etc. We can also get various shapes and sizes of copper products from copper sheets through the processes such as casting, forging, and extrusion.

All in all, because of these processing methods, copper sheets are widely used in various fields.

Choose the right copper sheet from 28 gauge to 16 gauge

First, how thick are they? For example, what is 16 gauge copper sheet thickness?

Here is a guideline chart for reference:

Please pay attention to this: the larger the gauge number is, the thinner the copper sheet will be.

Second, what are they used for?

28 gauge copper sheet

This copper sheet can hold weight and maintain shape significantly better. And it can be cut with ordinary scissors. It is often used in outdoor projects to protect wood from the elements such as for flashing, capping poles or exposed beams in a structure.

26 gauge copper sheet

The 26 gauge copper sheet is more rigid and less pliable than the 28 gauge copper sheet, but will also hold weight and can be bent or formed into shape by hand or with tools. So it is very durable and can be cut with tin snips, shears or a utility knife with a heavy-duty blade. It is often used for sculptures, jewelry-making, and other arts and crafts projects.

24 gauge copper sheet

Its thickness is half a millimeter. It is a heavy-weight copper often referred to as "roofing copper" or "roofing flashing. It is also used to make a Copper Bar Top, Counter Top, Range Hood, Table Top, Backsplash, Cabinet Insert, Furniture, Ceiling Tile, etc.

22 gauge copper sheet

This copper sheet is perfect for jewellery making projects. Stamping, texturing, sawing & enameling are the most common ways to use it.

20 gauge copper sheet

For crafts and art projects, DIY projects and embossing, you need a 20 gauge copper sheet. If this sheet is not thick enough, 18 gauge copper sheet is another choice. Please note this copper sheet can be cut with heavy duty snips or sheet metal shears.

16 gauge copper sheet

The most common gauge sizes for kitchen copper sinks are 18, 16, and 14. A 14 gauge sink is thicker and more durable. It can withstand heavy use and resist dents and dings. But it is more expensive. A 18 gauge sink is lighter and may be more affordable. Thus the 16 gauge copper sheet thickness is perfect for a kitchen copper sink.

In a word, consider your usage needs and budget when you select a perfect kitchen or bathroom sink gauge, ensuring a blend of functionality and aesthetics for years to come.