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Ferrite Vs. Copper Conductivity

Copper and ferrous metals (those with an iron base) are often chosen for certain applications based on their conductivity. Copper, for example, is used in wires for its high electrical conductivity. The thermal and electrical conductivities of these metals can vary with temperature.

Electrical Conductivity
- Electrical conductivity refers to the amount of current that will run through a metal, given a certain applied voltage. It is the opposite of electrical resistance. Copper has a much higher conductivity, at 0.596 *10^6 / (cm-ohm). Iron has an electrical conductivity of 0.0993 * 10^6 / (cm-ohm).
Thermal Conductivity
- The speed at which a metal conducts heat, given an applied temperature difference, is its thermal conductivity. Copper is very conductive, having a room-temperature conductivity of 223 Btu/(hr-deg.F-ft). Iron, while still a good conductor, is lower at 42 Btu/(hr-deg.F-ft).
Cause of Conductivity
- The number of electrons in an atom's valence shell determines its electrical conductivity. Copper has one free electron that can be easily transferred. Iron has either two or three, depending on its state. The atomic lattice structure of a metal affects its thermal conductivity. A closely packed lattice causes atoms to bump into each other more readily and to conduct heat better.

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