COPPERPLUS MASTER Q & A (FAQ)

What is the make-up of CopperPlus, stainless vs copper?

CopperPlus is composed of a 10% thickness of copper metallurgically bonded on each side to an 80% core of Type 430 stainless steel.

Why is 430 Stainless used instead of 304?

430 has better cold working properties and the Coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) is less than steel.

Where do the Copper and Stainless come from?

Both the Copper and Stainless used for bonding CopperPlus are primarily by domestic mills. 

Why not clad just one side?

The CTE for 430 Stainless is much lower than Copper requiring Copper on  both sides.

Who bonds the product?

Engineered Material Solutions-Attleboro, MA

Is there anyone else that can make the bonded product?

Engineered Material Solutions is the only U.S. company with capabilities to metallurgically bond ferrous to non-ferrous alloys at widths required for architectural metal applications.

Via what process is the product bonded?

Copper is metallurgically bonded to both sides of a 430 stainless steel substrate.

Will the product delaminate?

No.  It becomes one monolithic product, similar to a quarter.A58

Is this a plated product?

No, 2 strips of Copper are roll bonded to a 430 Stainless substrate.

What role does Heyco play in the processing?

Heyco Metals rolls to the final gauge, anneals, tension levels, slits, cuts to length, inventories, markets, and distributes, CopperPlus to the North American marketplace.

How wide can the product be manufactured?

Up to 24" wide

How heavy and how light on gauge?

.0030" to .060"

Into what applications does CopperPlus go?

All applications that use copper, along with those requiring the additional strength of CopperPlus.

Against what product do we primarily compete?

Depending on the product and code compliance requirement, we could compete with Aluminum, Steel, Stainless, Zinc, or Copper.

Against what companies do we primarily compete?

Primarily with mills and importers that supply architectural Copper coil and sheet.  We might also compete with coil and sheet suppliers of painted Aluminum & Steel, Stainless, and Zinc.

How long has the product been in existence?

Texas Instruments engineered "TI-Guard" (predecessor to CopperPlus) in the 1960's. Installations over 42 years old have validated the performance and integriy of CopperPlus.

What is the specification for CopperPlus?

CopperPlus is manufactured in conformance to ASTM B506-09. A copy of this document can be purchased on ASTM’s website at: http://www.astm.org/Standards/B506.htm

Formability. Are special hand tools and roll forming equipment required for CopperPlus?

No. CopperPlus can be roll formed and fabricated with the same well maintained equipment that is used to form Architectural Copper.

Why does it not rust?

The steel core of CopperPlus comprises alloy 430, which as a stainless steel will not rust in normal outside environments.

Explain the density advantage of CopperPlus

The steel core of CopperPlus comprises alloy 430, which is less dense than copper, so the 10/80/10 by thickness composite is 11% less dense than monolithic copper. Thus, 11% more feet per ton at a given gage and width!

Explain the heat expansion advantage of CopperPlus

The coefficient of thermal expansion is 36% less than monolithic copper. 

What do I do with my scrap?

CopperPlus scrap can be sold to certain scrap dealers at around 10% of Comex value. We can provide contacts upon request.

Can CopperPlus be paired with monolithic copper in installations?

Yes.

Can CopperPlus be paired with aluminium in installations?

No.

Can I use my Copper-forming/Aluminium-forming equipment to prepare CopperPlus?

Generally yes.

Will CopperPlus patinate just like copper?

Yes.

How long does it take for the copper to patina?

The same length of time it takes for monolithic Copper to patina.

What variables impact the time it takes to patina?

Orientation and exposure to various atmospheric conditions affect the rate of patina.  See the Copper Development Association for detailed information about Copper patina.

Is there a method to keep CopperPlus from generating a patina?

See Copper Development Association for information about clear coat sealing to prevent patina.

What about environmental impact of Copperplus versus monolithic copper?

CopperPlus is Copper and the environmental impact of CopperPlus is the same as Copper

Where can I see CopperPlus in the installed condition? Where is the stuff which has been 42-years in service?

42 year old projects can be viewed on www.heycometals.com/copperplus and www.copperplus.com  Photos of additional CopperPlus installations are available upon request.

Can I get it tinned, lead-tinned?

CopperPlus is Copper, so it can be Lead or Tin coated.

How does CopperPlus stand up to hail?

CopperPlus exceeds Class 4 hail tests.

How does the product compare to bare copper relating to expansion to expansion and contraction?

Favorably. CopperPlus CTE is 6.1  Copper CTE is 9.6

Does CopperPlus oil can the same as Architectural Copper?

No. CopperPlus thermal expansion properties are the same as Stainless Steel; which is 1/3 less than Architectural Copper.

Is there wind uplift testing done for Dade County?

Yes, and the results are significant. Miami-Dade BCCO has published that the strength of CopperPlus is equal to steel at the same gauge.

Do you sell a pre-patinated CopperPlus?

No.

Does CopperPlus solder like Architectural Copper?

Yes. CopperPlus can be easier to solder than Architectural Copper. Less gas is required asCopperPlus is soldered at a lower temperature.

The same solder and flux are used for soldering CopperPlus as are used for soldering Copper.

Does this qualify as a 'Cool Roof' product?

Like Copper, it does not qualify for a "Cool Roof" rating.

Where is CopperPlus on 'Lead' points?

Lead point values vary.  Lead points are calculated by project

Is there an AIA approved learning unit?

Yes.

Is there an AIA on-line course?

Yes.

Do you use the same fasteners as with Copper roofing?

Yes.

What is the recycled content of CopperPlus?

Both Copper & Stainless are 60% post consumer recycled.

Is it used for gutter and downspout?

Yes.

Does Heyco sell accessories?

Yes.

How does CopperPlus compare to bare copper in pricing?

CopperPlus weighs less than Copper and CopperPlus is stonger than Copper, so thinner material can be used.  Both contribute to the CopperPlus' lower cost.

What is the lead-time to buy CopperPlus?

Generally 3 weeks or less.

Are there distributors set up across the country?

Yes. Contact Heyco Metals' Customer Service or Sales for a distributor in your area.

Is there a warranty available for CopperPlus?

Yes. The CopperPlus Warranty is 25 years and 6 months.