Thermal Conductivity and Permeability Studies of Recycle Copper Wire Mesh

Abstract

Abstract Copper is well known as a valuable material, particularly for electrical industries due to its excellent properties. Besides, the price for copper scrap is also higher in comparison with other metal scrap materials found in many electrical appliances such as computer equipment, electric motor, transformer, and other components. This paper describes the potential of recycled copper wire shaped into a form suitable for heat sink application. The samples of wire mesh for this research were fabricated by compacting copper wire with different weight. Compaction was done to form a cylindrical shape with a diameter and height of approximately 25 mm and 30 mm, respectively. These samples were evaluated for porosity, thermal conductivity, and permeability. The experimental results showed that the sample with the lowest porosity exhibited great promising conductivity. In addition, lowering the amount of copper wire in compaction resulted in low density, thus improved its lightweight properties. The greater amount of porosity resulted in greater permeability. The optimum properties with a combination of the excellent thermal conductivity and permeability are necessary for heat sink application to ensure that the parts work effectively.