C51000 Phosphor Bronze is a copper-tin alloy that contains a small amount of phosphorus, which significantly enhances its strength, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. It stands out among other copper alloys for its excellent combination of strength and flexibility and its ability to withstand fatigue and corrosion. Compared to other alloys, C51000 Phosphor Bronze provides superior resistance to wear and corrosion, particularly in seawater and chemical environments. For precision machining, C51000 is ideal due to its high machinability and formability.
C51000 Phosphor Bronze is commonly used in CNC machined parts such as springs, bearings, bushings, electrical connectors, and other high-performance components. Its superior strength and excellent corrosion resistance make it suitable for demanding applications in industries like aerospace, automotive, and electrical systems.
Element | Composition Range (wt.%) | Key Role |
---|---|---|
Copper (Cu) | 90.0–95.0% | Provides strength, conductivity, and corrosion resistance |
Tin (Sn) | 4.0–6.0% | Enhances strength and corrosion resistance |
Phosphorus (P) | 0.03–0.35% | Improves wear resistance and increases material strength |
Lead (Pb) | ≤0.05% | Improves machinability and reduces friction during machining |
Property | Value (Typical) | Test Standard/Condition |
---|---|---|
Density | 8.8 g/cm³ | ASTM B311 |
Melting Point | 950–1050°C | ASTM E29 |
Thermal Conductivity | 60 W/m·K at 20°C | ASTM E1952 |
Electrical Conductivity | 15% IACS at 20°C | ASTM B193 |
Coefficient of Expansion | 18 µm/m·°C | ASTM E228 |
Specific Heat Capacity | 380 J/kg·K | ASTM E1269 |
Elastic Modulus | 110 GPa | ASTM E111 |
Property | Value (Typical) | Test Standard |
---|---|---|
Tensile Strength | 700–800 MPa | ASTM E8/E8M |
Yield Strength (0.2%) | 450–600 MPa | ASTM E8/E8M |
Elongation | 15–25% | ASTM E8/E8M |
Hardness | 90–110 HB | ASTM E10 |
Fatigue Strength | ~230 MPa | ASTM E466 |
Impact Resistance | Good | ASTM E23 |
C51000 Phosphor Bronze offers superior corrosion resistance, particularly in marine environments and when exposed to chemicals. It is often used in applications that require continuous exposure to harsh environments, such as seawater or industrial chemicals.
With high tensile and yield strength, C51000 Phosphor Bronze is highly durable and can withstand significant mechanical stress, making it suitable for components like springs, bushings, and bearings.
This alloy exhibits excellent fatigue resistance, allowing it to perform well in components subjected to repetitive or cyclic stress, such as springs and mechanical linkages.
The phosphorus content in C51000 enhances its wear resistance, making it an excellent choice for components that undergo constant friction or sliding contact, such as bearings and bushings.
C51000 Phosphor Bronze is known for its excellent machinability, allowing high-speed CNC machining and ease of forming into intricate shapes without significant tool wear.
Chip Formation C51000 Phosphor Bronze produces stringy chips, which can interfere with machining operations if not properly handled.
Solution: Use chip breakers and employ adequate coolant or air to clear chips efficiently during high-speed machining.
Tool Wear While C51000 is relatively easy to machine, its high strength can cause tool wear, particularly during high-speed cutting.
Solution: Use high-performance carbide or ceramic tools to minimize wear and improve tool life during machining operations.
Surface Finish Quality Achieving a fine surface finish can sometimes be challenging due to the tendency of C51000 to form rough edges during high-speed cutting.
Solution: Use sharp, high-quality tools and proper cutting techniques and lubrication to achieve smooth finishes.
Work Hardening C51000 Phosphor Bronze can experience work hardening if excessive cutting speeds or pressure are applied during machining.
Solution: Maintain moderate cutting speeds, keep tools sharp, and use proper coolant to minimize the risk of work hardening.
Parameter | Recommendation | Rationale |
---|---|---|
Tool Material | Carbide or ceramic tools | Carbide and ceramic tools offer better wear resistance and cutting performance. |
Geometry | Positive rake, sharp edges | Improves chip flow and ensures smoother surface finishes. |
Cutting Speed | 150–250 m/min | Reduces heat generation and prevents material deformation. |
Feed Rate | 0.10–0.20 mm/rev | Ensures smooth cutting and reduces burr formation. |
Coolant | Flood coolant or air blast | Helps in heat dissipation and improves surface finish. |
Operation | Speed (m/min) | Feed (mm/rev) | Depth of Cut (mm) | Coolant Pressure (bar) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Roughing | 150–200 | 0.15–0.20 | 2.0–3.5 | 25–35 |
Finishing | 200–250 | 0.05–0.10 | 0.5–1.0 | 30–50 |
Machining Process | Function and Benefit for C51000 Phosphor Bronze |
---|---|
Ideal for high-speed, precision machining of components like electrical connectors and springs. | |
Suitable for creating slots, grooves, and complex shapes in components like bushings and mechanical parts. | |
Used for turning cylindrical parts such as gears, bearings, and bushings in mechanical systems. | |
Ideal for creating precise holes for fasteners and components used in electrical and industrial systems. | |
Ensures precision internal machining for parts such as bearings and bushings used in mechanical applications. | |
Provides smooth finishes for parts exposed to wear and tear, such as shafts and gears. | |
Ideal for producing complex, multi-featured parts in aerospace, automotive, and industrial sectors. | |
Provides ultra-tight tolerances for high-performance components used in aerospace and medical devices. | |
Used for creating intricate features and fine details in parts such as electrical connectors and springs. |
Electroplating: Enhances corrosion resistance and provides a shiny finish for electrical connectors and other components.
Polishing: Achieves a high-gloss finish for decorative parts and improves their functionality.
Brushing: Creates satin or matte finishes for components exposed to frequent handling in industrial and electrical applications.
PVD Coating: Adds a durable coating that increases wear resistance and extends the life of mechanical components.
Passivation: Improves corrosion resistance, especially for parts exposed to aggressive chemicals.
Powder Coating: Provides a thick, protective finish ideal for parts exposed to UV light and harsh conditions.
Teflon Coating: Adds non-stick and chemical-resistant properties, ideal for mechanical applications.
Chrome Plating: Provides a glossy, durable coating that resists corrosion and enhances the appearance of components.
Aerospace Industry: Used for manufacturing high-strength components such as springs, bushings, and connectors.
Electrical & Power: Ideal for electrical components requiring high conductivity and durability, including connectors and terminals.
Automotive Industry: Commonly used in automotive applications such as gears, bearings, and other high-performance components.
Marine Industry: Highly suitable for marine hardware and components exposed to seawater and other corrosive elements.
How does C51000 Phosphor Bronze compare to other copper alloys regarding wear resistance?
What are the best surface treatments for C51000 Phosphor Bronze to enhance performance?
Can C51000 Phosphor Bronze be used in high-temperature applications?
How does C51000 perform in marine environments compared to other alloys?
What industries most commonly use C51000 Phosphor Bronze for CNC machining?