Copper C172 (Beryllium Copper – High Strength)
Introduction to Copper C172 (Beryllium Copper – High Strength)
Copper C172, also known as Beryllium Copper – High Strength, is a high-performance copper alloy incorporating beryllium to provide superior strength, hardness, and electrical conductivity. This alloy is renowned for its exceptional mechanical properties, especially in applications requiring high strength and excellent conductivity. Copper C172 is ideal for CNC machining services where both durability and precision are crucial.
Copper C172 excels in aerospace, automotive, and electrical industries, where high strength, wear resistance, and reliable performance are essential. CNC machined Copper C172 parts are used for connectors, switches, springs, and high-stress components that demand durability without compromising electrical conductivity.
Chemical, Physical, and Mechanical Properties of Copper C172 (Beryllium Copper – High Strength)
Chemical Composition (Typical)
Element | Composition Range (wt.%) | Key Role |
|---|---|---|
Copper (Cu) | 97.0% | Provides electrical and thermal conductivity |
Beryllium (Be) | 1.8–2.0% | Enhances strength, hardness, and wear resistance |
Other Elements | ≤0.5% | Residual elements with minimal impact on properties |
Physical Properties
Property | Value (Typical) | Test Standard/Condition |
|---|---|---|
Density | 8.28 g/cm³ | ASTM B311 |
Melting Point | 890°C | ASTM E29 |
Thermal Conductivity | 130 W/m·K at 20°C | ASTM E1952 |
Electrical Conductivity | 40% IACS at 20°C | ASTM B193 |
Coefficient of Expansion | 17.0 µm/m·°C | ASTM E228 |
Specific Heat Capacity | 390 J/kg·K | ASTM E1269 |
Elastic Modulus | 130 GPa | ASTM E111 |
Mechanical Properties (Annealed Temper)
Property | Value (Typical) | Test Standard |
|---|---|---|
Tensile Strength | 750–900 MPa | ASTM E8/E8M |
Yield Strength (0.2%) | 500–650 MPa | ASTM E8/E8M |
Elongation | 4–10% | ASTM E8/E8M |
Hardness | 200–250 HB | ASTM E10 |
Fatigue Strength | ~300 MPa | ASTM E466 |
Impact Resistance | Moderate | ASTM E23 |
Note: These values are typical for annealed Copper C172 and can vary based on specific processing conditions.
Key Characteristics of Copper C172 (Beryllium Copper – High Strength)
Exceptional Strength and Hardness
Copper C172 offers tensile strength up to 900 MPa and hardness values exceeding 200 HB, making it ideal for high-stress applications.
Moderate Electrical and Thermal Conductivity
With 40% IACS conductivity, it is suitable for electrical applications requiring good conductivity and mechanical strength.
High Wear Resistance
The beryllium addition enhances wear resistance, making Copper C172 ideal for sliding or repetitive contact applications.
Good Corrosion Resistance
Copper C172 offers resistance to corrosion, especially in moist or mildly acidic environments, extending the lifetime of parts.
Excellent Fatigue Strength
With a fatigue strength of approximately 300 MPa, Copper C172 is well-suited for dynamic applications requiring prolonged use without failure.
CNC Machining Challenges and Solutions for Copper C172 (Beryllium Copper – High Strength)
Machining Challenges
High Hardness
The hardness of Copper C172 can cause significant tool wear during machining, especially during high-speed cutting.
Solution: Use carbide tools with TiN or TiAlN coatings, and maintain moderate cutting speeds to reduce wear.
Tool Wear and Buildup
Due to its hardness and beryllium content, Copper C172 can cause rapid tool wear, affecting the surface finish.
Solution: Use sharp tools and effective cooling methods, such as flood coolant, to maintain tool integrity.
Work Hardening
Copper C172 can work harden quickly, making subsequent machining operations more difficult.
Solution: Employ lower cutting speeds and use sharp, high-quality tools to minimize work-hardening effects.
Optimized Machining Strategies
Tool Selection
Parameter | Recommendation | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
Tool Material | Carbide tools with TiN coating | Reduces wear and enhances tool life |
Geometry | Positive rake, sharp edges | Improves chip flow and reduces material buildup |
Cutting Speed | 80–150 m/min | Prevents excessive heating and reduces tool wear |
Feed Rate | 0.08–0.12 mm/rev | Ensures smooth cutting and reduces work hardening |
Coolant | Flood coolant or air blast | Reduces heat buildup and assists in chip removal |
Copper C172 Cutting Parameters (ISO 513 Compliance)
Operation | Speed (m/min) | Feed (mm/rev) | Depth of Cut (mm) | Coolant Pressure (bar) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Roughing | 80–120 | 0.10–0.15 | 2.0–3.0 | 25–40 |
Finishing | 120–180 | 0.05–0.08 | 0.5–1.0 | 30–50 |
Key Features and Applications for Copper C172 (Beryllium Copper – High Strength)
Machining Process | Function and Benefit for Copper C172 (Beryllium Copper – High Strength) |
|---|---|
Achieves ±0.01 mm precision for high-strength electrical contacts and connectors. | |
Ideal for producing slots, grooves, and complex shapes in connectors and contact parts. | |
Suitable for manufacturing cylindrical parts like bushings and electrical terminals with high accuracy. | |
Processes holes with precision for pins and connectors in electrical and mechanical applications. | |
Provides precise internal bore tolerances, ideal for parts with tight fitting needs. | |
Ensures fine surface finishes with Ra 0.2–0.4 µm for highly conductive electrical parts. | |
Supports complex parts with multiple angles and intricate features for high-performance connectors. | |
Delivers tight tolerances and surface finishes for demanding applications in high-voltage components. | |
Used for creating intricate features in small-scale, high-performance connectors and electrical contacts. |
Surface Treatment for Copper C172 CNC Parts
Electroplating: Adds a 5–10 µm nickel coating for enhanced corrosion resistance and durability.
Polishing: Achieves smooth, glossy finishes with Ra 0.2–0.4 µm for improved electrical performance and aesthetic appeal.
Brushing: Provides a uniform satin finish for mechanical parts and connectors requiring smooth surfaces.
PVD Coating: Adds a 2–5 µm hard, durable coating to improve wear resistance and aesthetic qualities.
Passivation: Enhances corrosion resistance by up to 30%, prolonging part longevity in harsh environments.
Powder Coating: Provides a 50–100 µm protective coating for improved durability and UV resistance.
Teflon Coating: Adds a low friction, chemical-resistant layer ideal for moving and sliding components.
Chrome Plating: Adds a shiny, durable finish (10–20 µm thickness) for improved corrosion resistance and high-load performance.
Industry Applications of Copper C172 (Beryllium Copper – High Strength)
Aerospace Industry: Used for high-performance electrical connectors and components exposed to mechanical stress in aircraft systems.
Electrical & Power: Ideal for power distribution components, including high-current contacts and terminals requiring strength and conductivity.
Automotive Industry: Used for high-performance electrical connectors and switchgear in electric and hybrid vehicles.
FAQs
What is the advantage of using Copper C172 in high-stress electrical applications?
How does Copper C172 compare to other copper alloys in terms of machinability?
Can Copper C172 be used for automotive powertrain components?
What are the best surface treatments for Copper C172 to enhance its durability?
How does Copper C172 perform in high-temperature electrical applications?
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