Brass C174
Introduction to Brass C174
Brass C174, also known as Beryllium Copper, is an alloy composed primarily of copper with a small percentage of beryllium. Known for its exceptional strength, high thermal and electrical conductivity, and resistance to wear, Brass C174 is an ideal material for demanding applications. Compared to other copper alloys, Brass C174 stands out for its superior mechanical properties, especially its high tensile strength and hardness, which are further enhanced by adding beryllium. It is a preferred choice for precision machining in high-performance industries.
Brass C174 is commonly used in CNC machined parts such as electrical contacts, connectors, and springs. Its high conductivity and durability make it ideal for applications in electronics, aerospace, and telecommunications, where mechanical strength and electrical efficiency are critical.
Chemical, Physical, and Mechanical Properties of Brass C174
Chemical Composition (Typical)
Element | Composition Range (wt.%) | Key Role |
|---|---|---|
Copper (Cu) | 96.0–98.5% | Provides strength, conductivity, and corrosion resistance |
Beryllium (Be) | 0.2–2.0% | Enhances strength, hardness, and wear resistance |
Iron (Fe) | ≤0.2% | Residual element, minimal effect on properties |
Nickel (Ni) | ≤0.5% | Improves corrosion resistance and mechanical properties |
Physical Properties
Property | Value (Typical) | Test Standard/Condition |
|---|---|---|
Density | 8.3 g/cm³ | ASTM B311 |
Melting Point | 900–940°C | ASTM E29 |
Thermal Conductivity | 120 W/m·K at 20°C | ASTM E1952 |
Electrical Conductivity | 35% IACS at 20°C | ASTM B193 |
Coefficient of Expansion | 17 µm/m·°C | ASTM E228 |
Specific Heat Capacity | 380 J/kg·K | ASTM E1269 |
Elastic Modulus | 135 GPa | ASTM E111 |
Mechanical Properties (Annealed Temper)
Property | Value (Typical) | Test Standard |
|---|---|---|
Tensile Strength | 1100–1300 MPa | ASTM E8/E8M |
Yield Strength (0.2%) | 900–1100 MPa | ASTM E8/E8M |
Elongation | 4–10% | ASTM E8/E8M |
Hardness | 175–230 HB | ASTM E10 |
Fatigue Strength | ~500 MPa | ASTM E466 |
Impact Resistance | Fair | ASTM E23 |
Key Characteristics of Brass C174
Exceptional Strength
Brass C174 is one of the strongest copper alloys due to the addition of beryllium, making it highly resistant to wear and deformation. It is ideal for high-stress applications.
High Electrical and Thermal Conductivity
Brass C174 maintains excellent electrical and thermal conductivity despite its high strength, making it suitable for electrical components and heat-exchange applications.
Corrosion Resistance
Brass C174 offers good corrosion resistance, especially in harsh environments, making it a reliable material for use in marine, industrial, and high-temperature applications.
Excellent Machinability
Brass C174 is highly machinable, with good performance in high-speed CNC machining processes, thanks to its balance between strength and ductility.
Wear Resistance
Adding beryllium enhances Brass C174's wear resistance, making it an ideal material for components exposed to friction and wear, such as electrical contacts and springs.
CNC Machining Challenges and Solutions for Brass C174
Machining Challenges
Chip Formation Brass C174 may produce long chips when machined, which can impede the machining process.
Solution: Employ chip breakers to manage long chip formation, adjust feed rates, and use air or coolant for efficient chip removal.
Tool Wear Brass C174 is a high-strength alloy, and its machining can cause tool wear over time, especially during high-speed cutting.
Solution: Use carbide or ceramic tools, which offer superior wear resistance and are suited for the high-strength nature of Brass C174.
Surface Finish Quality Achieving a smooth surface finish may be challenging due to its hardness and potential for burr formation.
Solution: Use high-speed cutting techniques with sharp tools and proper lubrication to obtain smooth finishes.
Work Hardening Brass C174 may experience work hardening if machining speeds or pressures are too high.
Solution: Use moderate cutting speeds, sharp tools, and adequate coolant to prevent work hardening.
Optimized Machining Strategies
Parameter | Recommendation | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
Tool Material | Carbide or ceramic tools | These materials provide excellent wear resistance and better cutting performance. |
Geometry | Positive rake, sharp edges | Improves chip flow and surface finish. |
Cutting Speed | 100–200 m/min | Reduces heat buildup and prevents material deformation. |
Feed Rate | 0.05–0.15 mm/rev | Ensures smooth cutting and prevents burr formation. |
Coolant | Flood coolant or air blast | Reduces heat generation and improves surface finish. |
Brass C174 Cutting Parameters (ISO 513 Compliance)
Operation | Speed (m/min) | Feed (mm/rev) | Depth of Cut (mm) | Coolant Pressure (bar) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Roughing | 100–150 | 0.15–0.20 | 2.0–3.0 | 25–35 |
Finishing | 150–200 | 0.05–0.10 | 0.5–1.0 | 30–50 |
Typical Machining Methods for Brass C174
Machining Process | Function and Benefit for Brass C174 |
|---|---|
Ideal for high-speed, precision machining of components like electrical contacts and springs in the electronics and aerospace industries. | |
Suitable for creating precise shapes, slots, and grooves in components such as connectors and bushings, used in automotive and telecommunications. | |
Used for turning cylindrical parts like connectors, bushings, and gears in automotive and aerospace systems. | |
Ideal for creating accurate holes in parts like electrical terminals and mechanical components, especially in the aerospace and electronics industries. | |
Ensures precision internal machining for parts like bushings and bearings, used in industrial and automotive applications. | |
Provides smooth finishes for parts that require high wear resistance, such as electrical contacts and springs, used in industrial applications. | |
Ideal for complex, multi-featured parts in industries like aerospace and electronics, where high precision is critical. | |
Provides ultra-tight tolerances for high-performance components, often required in aerospace and medical device manufacturing. | |
Used for creating intricate details and fine features in parts such as connectors and switches, commonly used in electronics and aerospace applications. |
Surface Treatment for Brass C174 CNC Parts
Electroplating: Enhances corrosion resistance and provides a shiny finish for electrical contacts and other components.
Polishing: Achieves a high-gloss finish, improving decorative parts' appearance and functionality.
Brushing: Creates satin or matte finishes for components exposed to frequent handling or environmental stress.
PVD Coating: Adds a durable coating that increases wear resistance and extends the part's life.
Passivation: Improves corrosion resistance, especially for components exposed to chemicals.
Powder Coating: Provides a thick, protective finish ideal for parts exposed to UV light and harsh conditions.
Teflon Coating: Adds non-stick, chemical-resistant properties, ideal for high-performance mechanical applications.
Chrome Plating: Provides a glossy, durable coating that resists corrosion and adds an aesthetic touch to mechanical components.
Industry Applications of Brass C174
Aerospace Industry: Used for manufacturing electrical contacts, connectors, and parts subjected to high stresses.
Electrical & Power: Ideal for electrical connectors, terminals, and components that require high conductivity and durability.
Automotive Industry: Commonly used for creating precision gears, fasteners, and connectors in automotive systems.
Medical Industry: Used for manufacturing precise medical device and equipment components that require high reliability and performance.
FAQs
What makes Brass C174 different from other copper alloys in terms of strength and machinability?
How can Brass C174 be treated to improve its corrosion resistance?
Is Brass C174 suitable for high-temperature applications?
What industries most commonly use Brass C174 for CNC machining?
What are the key benefits of using Brass C174 in electrical and aerospace applications?
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