Copper’s versatility has made it a key component for telecommunications for over a century. From its use in early landline phones to modern mobile networks, copper’s unique properties have played a vital role in connecting the world for the last 100 years and will continue to do so well into the future.
As one of the leading global mining companies, Anglo American has contributed significantly to the global supply of copper, as the metal that has been instrumental in the development of modern telecommunications infrastructure across the world.
Did you know?
Copper wire was the foundation of early telephone systems. Its high conductivity allowed for the transmission of voice signals over long distances. The iconic landline telephones, with their coiled cords, relied heavily on copper wire to connect homes and businesses to the telephone network.
As technology advanced, coaxial cable, a type of cable with a copper conductor at its center, became essential to telecommunications infrastructure. Coaxial cables were used to transmit high-bandwidth signals, including television and broadband internet. Their ability to carry multiple channels simultaneously revolutionised the way we consume media.
Copper plays a central role in modern smartphones, providing essential wiring that connects the intricate electronic components. Alongside copper, other metals like gold and tantalum are used in microelectrical parts and capacitors, gallium in semiconductors, and zinc in circuit boards. These metals, including copper, are carefully selected for their electrical resistance and other key properties that make them ideal for advanced microelectronics.
With the advent of digital communication, copper continued to play a crucial role. Copper-based Ethernet cables, commonly found in homes, offices, and data centres, are still used to connect devices to local networks. Even as fibre optic cables have gained popularity for long-distance transmission, copper remains indispensable for the final mile connectivity to homes and businesses.
Data Centres & Artificial Intelligence (AI)
As AI continues its global ascent, it is intensifying the looming copper deficit.
Data centres, the neural networks of AI, are a major driver of copper demand. These facilities, which house and power the infrastructure for AI applications, require significant amounts of copper for power supply, cooling systems, and internal connectivity. Moreover, the increasing energy consumption of AI-powered data centers further compounds the demand for copper.
Copper's unique properties:
- High Conductivity: Copper's ability to conduct electricity efficiently is essential for transmitting signals over long distances.
- Malleability: Copper can be easily shaped and formed into various components, making it versatile for use in different applications.
- Durability: Copper is a durable metal that can withstand harsh environmental conditions, ensuring the reliability of telecommunications infrastructure.
As technology continues to evolve, copper's role in telecommunications may change. However, its versatility and reliability make it a valuable asset in the industry. Copper-based infrastructure will likely remain a cornerstone of telecommunications for the foreseeable future, supporting both traditional and emerging technologies.
By supplying copper, we continue to play our part in the development and growth of modern communication technologies, and our commitment to sustainable mining practices ensures a reliable and responsible source of this essential metal for the future.