JimmyM
Flashlight Enthusiast
I'd read in a lot of places that lights, etc are built with brass instead of aluminum/aluminium for better electrical conductivity.
However, real data proves otherwise.
In order of electrical conductivity (relative to copper)
Material IACS % Conductivity
Silver 105%
Copper 100%
Gold 70%
Aluminum/Aluminium 61%
Nickel 22 %
Zinc 27%
Brass 28%
Iron 17%
Tin 15%
Phosphor Bronze 15%
Lead 7%
Nickel Alum. Bronze 7%
Steel 3 to 15%
That's right, Gold is only 70% as electrically conductive as copper.
Brass is only slightly more than 25% as conductive as copper.
There are other factors, not the least of which, are solderability and corrosion resistance. But for electrical conductivity, It's tough to beat copper.
However, real data proves otherwise.
In order of electrical conductivity (relative to copper)
Material IACS % Conductivity
Silver 105%
Copper 100%
Gold 70%
Aluminum/Aluminium 61%
Nickel 22 %
Zinc 27%
Brass 28%
Iron 17%
Tin 15%
Phosphor Bronze 15%
Lead 7%
Nickel Alum. Bronze 7%
Steel 3 to 15%
That's right, Gold is only 70% as electrically conductive as copper.
Brass is only slightly more than 25% as conductive as copper.
There are other factors, not the least of which, are solderability and corrosion resistance. But for electrical conductivity, It's tough to beat copper.
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