Copper Facts
Production & Consumption
U.S. copper mine production in 2002 dropped to 2,516 million pounds from 2001's 2,954 million pounds.
The 2002 level of 7,313 million pounds is a 6.0% decrease from the revised 2001 level of 7,780 million pounds.
Exports of mill products in 2002 continued to decline also, down 7.1% at 735 million pounds versus imports of 909 million pounds, a decrease of 10.0% from 2001 levels.
Building construction continued to be the largest end-use market for copper products, accounting for more than two-fifths, 46.3% (3,384 million pounds), of total U.S. consumption. Other end-use markets:
Electrical and electronic products - 22.7%
(1,662 million pounds)
Transportation equipment - 10.2%
(744 million pounds)
Consumer and general products - 10.9%
(798 million pounds)
Industrial machinery and equipment - 9.9%
(725 million pounds)
The most current annual market data figures may be found in the market data section.
Additional Resources
The CDA web site provides many other resources for people interested in learning more about copper and its alloys.
Take a look at Innovations - our on-line magazine.
Please also check out Copper In Your Home - a section dedicated to consumers, with a special section just for kids!
If you need metallurgical or properties information, take a look at the Standards & Properties section.
Please also take a look at our application specific sections if you are looking for information regarding plumbing, electrical, architecture, and other copper alloy applications.
