a process is disclosed for preparing copper - film - plated steel cord suitable for use in vehicle tires comprising plating zinc or tin on the surface of steel cord , drawing the zinc or tin - plated cord , and then plating copper film onto the zinc or tin plated steel cord by contact with a solution of cupric sulfate solution , cupric nitrate , cupric chloride or cupric acetate . compared with the presently used brass - plated steel cord , manufacturing tires with copper - plated cord according to the present invention reduces manufacturing time due to faster formation of adhesion interphase , increases the storage period by enhancing moisture stability , and retards adhesion degradation thereby extending the service life of the tires .