Copper C630 (Aluminum Bronze)
Introduction to Copper C630 (Aluminum Bronze)
Copper C630, also known as Aluminum Bronze, is a high-strength alloy that combines excellent mechanical properties with superior corrosion resistance. The addition of aluminum in the alloy enhances its strength, making it more suitable for high-load applications. Copper C630 is widely used in industries where high tensile strength, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance are critical. It is often used in CNC machining services for parts that require excellent durability in harsh environments.
Copper C630’s unique combination of strength and resistance to corrosion, especially in seawater, makes it ideal for marine, aerospace, and industrial machinery applications. CNC machined Copper C630 parts are used in heavy-duty gears, valves, marine components, and high-strength fasteners.
Chemical, Physical, and Mechanical Properties of Copper C630 (Aluminum Bronze)
Chemical Composition (Typical)
Element | Composition Range (wt.%) | Key Role |
|---|---|---|
Copper (Cu) | 85.0–90.0% | Provides base for strength, corrosion resistance |
Aluminum (Al) | 7.0–10.0% | Increases strength, hardness, and corrosion resistance |
Iron (Fe) | 1.0–3.0% | Enhances wear resistance and hardness |
Nickel (Ni) | 0.5–2.5% | Improves strength and corrosion resistance |
Manganese (Mn) | 0.5–1.5% | Provides grain refinement and increases strength |
Physical Properties
Property | Value (Typical) | Test Standard/Condition |
|---|---|---|
Density | 8.7 g/cm³ | ASTM B311 |
Melting Point | 1,080°C | ASTM E29 |
Thermal Conductivity | 60 W/m·K at 20°C | ASTM E1952 |
Electrical Conductivity | 10–15% IACS at 20°C | ASTM B193 |
Coefficient of Expansion | 16.5 µm/m·°C | ASTM E228 |
Specific Heat Capacity | 380 J/kg·K | ASTM E1269 |
Elastic Modulus | 110 GPa | ASTM E111 |
Mechanical Properties (Annealed Temper)
Property | Value (Typical) | Test Standard |
|---|---|---|
Tensile Strength | 520–620 MPa | ASTM E8/E8M |
Yield Strength (0.2%) | 400–500 MPa | ASTM E8/E8M |
Elongation | 15–25% | ASTM E8/E8M |
Hardness | 180–220 HB | ASTM E10 |
Fatigue Strength | ~250 MPa | ASTM E466 |
Impact Resistance | Good | ASTM E23 |
Note: These values are typical for annealed Copper C630 and can vary based on specific processing conditions.
Key Characteristics of Copper C630 (Aluminum Bronze)
High Strength and Hardness
Copper C630 has higher strength and hardness than standard copper alloys, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications.
Superior Corrosion Resistance
Aluminum content enhances the alloy's resistance to corrosion, particularly in seawater and other aggressive environments.
Excellent Wear Resistance
The combination of aluminum, iron, and nickel provides excellent wear resistance, making Copper C630 ideal for high-abrasion applications.
Good Fabricability
While stronger than pure copper, Copper C630 is still relatively easy to machine, form, and weld for complex designs.
High Impact Resistance
Copper C630 is more resistant to impact damage than standard copper alloys, making it suitable for heavy-duty, high-stress applications.
CNC Machining Challenges and Solutions for Copper C630 (Aluminum Bronze)
Machining Challenges
High Strength
Copper C630’s high strength can make it difficult to machine, especially when it comes to cutting and drilling.
Solution: Use carbide tools, reduce cutting speeds, and apply sufficient coolant to manage heat buildup and tool wear.
Tool Wear
Due to its hardness, Copper C630 can cause rapid tool wear, especially during high-speed cutting operations.
Solution: Use high-performance tools such as carbide or ceramic inserts, and optimize tool geometry for better wear resistance.
Chip Formation
Long and stringy chips can form, making achieving smooth, high-quality finishes difficult.
Solution: Employ chip breakers and adjust feed rates to promote chip control and smoother surface finishes.
Work Hardening
Copper C630 can work harden, leading to machining difficulties during multiple passes or heavy cuts.
Solution: Use lower cutting speeds and ensure proper tool cooling to minimize the impact of work hardening.
Optimized Machining Strategies
Tool Selection
Parameter | Recommendation | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
Tool Material | Carbide or ceramic tools | Carbide tools provide better wear resistance |
Geometry | Positive rake, sharp edges | Improves chip flow and reduces material buildup |
Cutting Speed | 100–150 m/min | Reduces tool wear and prevents excessive heat buildup |
Feed Rate | 0.10–0.15 mm/rev | Ensures smooth cutting while preventing burr formation |
Coolant | High-flow coolant or air blast | Prevents heat buildup and improves surface finish |
Copper C630 Cutting Parameters (ISO 513 Compliance)
Operation | Speed (m/min) | Feed (mm/rev) | Depth of Cut (mm) | Coolant Pressure (bar) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Roughing | 100–150 | 0.15–0.25 | 2.0–3.5 | 30–50 |
Finishing | 150–200 | 0.05–0.10 | 0.5–1.0 | 35–50 |
Typical Machining Methods for Copper C630 (Aluminum Bronze)
Machining Process | Function and Benefit for Copper C630 (Aluminum Bronze) |
|---|---|
Ideal for tight-tolerance machining of electrical components, valves, and bushings. | |
Produces accurate slots and grooves, commonly used for marine and industrial components. | |
Efficient for creating cylindrical parts such as shafts and bearings, with high accuracy. | |
Ideal for producing holes for connectors, fasteners, and fluid lines in mechanical systems. | |
Provides high-precision boring for internal components like bearings and bushings. | |
Achieves fine surface finishes for load-bearing components like gears and sleeves. | |
Suitable for complex shapes required in high-precision aerospace and marine parts. | |
Delivers tight tolerances for mechanical components in demanding applications. | |
Used for detailed features in intricate aerospace and industrial parts. |
Surface Treatment for Copper C630 CNC Parts
Electroplating: A nickel or gold coating is added for enhanced corrosion resistance, especially for marine and industrial components.
Polishing: Provides a smooth, polished surface that enhances both conductivity and appearance.
Brushing: Achieves a satin finish ideal for marine applications and industrial components, improving both aesthetics and wear resistance.
PVD Coating: Increases surface hardness and wear resistance, ideal for high-load parts in harsh environments.
Passivation: Enhances corrosion resistance, particularly in marine environments, making Copper C630 suitable for underwater components.
Powder Coating: Provides a durable protective layer that resists corrosion, UV damage, and harsh chemicals.
Teflon Coating: Offers a non-stick, chemical-resistant layer for components exposed to harsh chemical or high-friction environments.
Chrome Plating: Provides a glossy, durable finish that enhances both appearance and corrosion protection.
Industry Applications of Copper C630 (Aluminum Bronze)
Aerospace Industry: Used for high-strength components like bushings, bearings, and gears in aircraft systems.
Electrical & Power: Ideal for producing power transmission parts, connectors, and other high-strength electrical components.
Marine Industry: Excellent for marine hardware and fittings, offering superior resistance to seawater corrosion.
FAQs
How does Copper C630 compare to other bronze alloys in terms of strength?
What are the best surface treatments for Copper C630 to improve its durability?
Can Copper C630 be used for marine applications?
How does Copper C630 perform in high-temperature environments?
What industries use Copper C630 for heavy-duty applications?
Explore Related Blogs
