Copper C175 (Chromium Copper)
Introduction to Copper C175 (Chromium Copper)
Copper C175 (Chromium Copper) is a high-performance copper alloy incorporating chromium for enhanced strength, wear resistance, and increased hardness. This alloy is widely used in applications requiring high conductivity and enhanced mechanical properties. With its excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, Copper C175 is ideal for use in CNC machining services where both precision and performance are required.
This copper alloy is highly valued in power generation, welding, and aerospace industries, where reliable, high-strength components are essential. CNC machined Copper C175 is used in various applications, including electrical contacts, connectors, and heat exchangers, offering a combination of durability and conductivity.
Chemical, Physical, and Mechanical Properties of Copper C175 (Chromium Copper)
Chemical Composition (Typical)
Element | Composition Range (wt.%) | Key Role |
|---|---|---|
Copper (Cu) | 99.3% | Base metal ensuring conductivity and thermal transfer |
Chromium (Cr) | 0.4–0.6% | Enhances strength and wear resistance |
Other Elements | ≤0.1% | Minor residuals with negligible influence |
Physical Properties
Property | Value (Typical) | Test Standard/Condition |
|---|---|---|
Density | 8.96 g/cm³ | ASTM B311 |
Melting Point | 1,083°C | ASTM E29 |
Thermal Conductivity | 240 W/m·K at 20°C | ASTM E1952 |
Electrical Conductivity | 80% 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 | 110 GPa | ASTM E111 |
Mechanical Properties (Annealed Temper)
Property | Value (Typical) | Test Standard |
|---|---|---|
Tensile Strength | 450–550 MPa | ASTM E8/E8M |
Yield Strength (0.2%) | 350–450 MPa | ASTM E8/E8M |
Elongation | 15–25% | ASTM E8/E8M |
Hardness | 85–105 HB | ASTM E10 |
Fatigue Strength | ~300 MPa | ASTM E466 |
Impact Resistance | Good | ASTM E23 |
Key Characteristics of Copper C175 (Chromium Copper)
High Electrical and Thermal Conductivity
80% IACS conductivity and 240 W/m·K thermal transfer support critical power applications.
Increased Strength and Wear Resistance
Chromium addition yields tensile strength up to 550 MPa and improved surface longevity.
High-Temperature Stability
Mechanical properties remain stable above 300°C, suitable for welding and electrical terminals.
Good Machinability
Machinability rating of 30–40% (vs. free-machining brass) supports complex CNC geometries.
Corrosion Resistance
Resists oxidation and tarnish in industrial and atmospheric environments over long exposure periods.
CNC Machining Challenges and Solutions for Copper C175 (Chromium Copper)
Work Hardening
Occurs under high tool pressure and insufficient cooling. Use carbide tools and flood coolant.
Tool Wear
Use TiAlN-coated tools to reduce wear from material toughness and surface resistance.
Chip Removal
Long chips impair finish. Use chip breakers and positive rake angles.
Recommended Parameters
Operation | Speed (m/min) | Feed (mm/rev) | Depth of Cut (mm) | Coolant Pressure (bar) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Roughing | 120–180 | 0.12–0.18 | 2.0–3.0 | 25–40 |
Finishing | 180–250 | 0.05–0.10 | 0.5–1.0 | 30–50 |
Key Features and Applications for Copper C175 (Chromium Copper)
Machining Process | Function and Benefit for Copper C175 (Chromium Copper) |
|---|---|
Delivers ±0.01 mm precision in connectors, contacts, and aerospace pins. | |
Ideal for heat sink bases and bus bars with 2D and 3D surface features. | |
Perfect for rods and high-speed contact terminals with tight concentricity. | |
Processes holes with 1:10 depth-to-diameter ratio for terminal post assemblies. | |
Achieves 5 µm roundness for heat-resistant internal cavities. | |
Surface finish down to Ra 0.2 µm for sliding contacts. | |
Supports complex conductor geometries in one setup with undercuts or deep cavities. | |
Essential for thin-wall components and socket interfaces with < ±5 µm accuracy. | |
Creates micro features in switch terminals and high-voltage sensor parts. |
Surface Treatment for Copper C175 CNC Parts
Electroplating: Adds up to 10 µm nickel for corrosion and wear protection in electrical contacts.
Polishing: Reduces surface roughness to Ra 0.2–0.4 µm, enhancing conductivity and cosmetic appeal.
Brushing: Creates consistent matte finish for connectors with <1.0 µm surface texture variation.
PVD Coating: Adds 2–5 µm hard coating (≥1500 HV) for decorative and high-wear uses.
Passivation: Increases surface cleanliness and tarnish resistance by up to 30%.
Powder Coating: Applies 50–100 µm uniform coating for UV, chemical, and scratch resistance.
Teflon Coating: Adds a non-stick layer with a friction coefficient <0.1 for sliding components.
Chrome Plating: Adds 10–20 µm bright, hard layer (up to 1000 HV) for high-load wear surfaces.
Industry Applications of Copper C175 (Chromium Copper)
Aerospace Industry: Electro-mechanical relay arms and connectors for heat-intensive avionics.
Electrical & Power: Busbars, high-voltage connectors, and circuit breakers with stable conductivity.
Automotive Industry: EV charging connectors and relay contactors with long cycle life and high wear strength.
FAQs
What is the fatigue strength of CNC machined Copper C175 parts?
Can Copper C175 be used for high-temperature electrical contacts?
What are the best coatings for enhancing durability of Copper C175 terminals?
What machining tolerances can be achieved for complex Copper C175 parts?
Is Copper C175 suitable for thin-wall connectors in automotive electronics?
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