Copper

Copper is a Refined Metal resource used as a construction material and crafting component in the game. It functions primarily as a building material for mid-tier electrical and automation infrastructure and appears as a processed metal that other recipes and constructions consume. Copper also grants a positive decor effect when used in structures.

Copper's primary in-game roles include construction of advanced power systems, power-related buildings, and automation devices. Because Conductive Wire and other low-resistance conductor components require Refined Metal to be built, Copper is a standard choice for manufacturing those components once the appropriate research is unlocked. The game's Exosuit Forge uses Copper as a raw input for at least one wearable item: the Atmo Suit is produced from 300 kg Copper + 2 Reed Fiber = 1 Atmo Suit, demonstrating Copper's role in crafting equipment as well as infrastructure.

Practical notes and strategy for using Copper

• Use Copper as a Refined Metal for power and automation: Copper is commonly consumed by mid- and late-game power buildings and automation components. When planning power networks and automation fabrications, factor Copper consumption into your supply and refining workflows.
• Conductive components: Research that unlocks Conductive Wire and related low-resistance conductors requires Refined Metal to construct. Because Copper is a Refined Metal, it is suitable for producing these components once unlocked.
• Decor benefit: Buildings and constructions made of Copper provide a decor bonus; this can help when placing decor-relevant structures or when choosing materials for visible rooms. The decor bonus associated with Copper is significant and should be leveraged when aesthetics or morale matters.
• Crafting equipment: The Exosuit Forge recipe for the Atmo Suit explicitly consumes Copper, so stock Copper if you intend to outfit Duplicants for hazardous environments requiring suits.
• Logistics and planning: As a refined material, Copper must be produced or obtained through your refinery/metalworks pipeline. Plan mass-processing and storage so that Copper-intensive projects do not stall due to shortages.

Do not assume Copper replaces higher-tier Refined Metals where those are specifically required; if a component or building lists a particular refined metal requirement beyond the generic Refined Metal category, verify the exact material needed before committing Copper to construction.