Copper C905 (Silicon Bronze)
Introduction to Copper C905 (Silicon Bronze)
Copper C905, also known as Silicon Bronze, is a high-performance copper alloy primarily composed of copper, silicon, and trace amounts of other elements. It is known for its exceptional corrosion resistance, particularly in marine and industrial environments. Copper C905 is used widely in CNC machining services for its strength, ductility, and durability. This makes it an ideal material for manufacturing components subjected to harsh conditions, including underwater and high-temperature environments.
The alloy’s excellent castability, high strength, and corrosion resistance make it suitable for durable applications, such as marine hardware, chemical equipment, and mechanical components. CNC machined Copper C905 parts can be found in high-stress components such as valves, gears, bushings, and structural elements in demanding aerospace, marine, and energy industries.
Chemical, Physical, and Mechanical Properties of Copper C905 (Silicon Bronze)
Chemical Composition (Typical)
Element | Composition Range (wt.%) | Key Role |
|---|---|---|
Copper (Cu) | ≥94.5% | Base element for strength and conductivity |
Silicon (Si) | 1.8–3.5% | Enhances corrosion resistance and strength |
Iron (Fe) | ≤1.0% | Provides increased strength and wear resistance |
Manganese (Mn) | ≤1.0% | Enhances toughness and helps in corrosion resistance |
Tin (Sn) | ≤0.5% | Adds further corrosion resistance, especially in seawater |
Physical Properties
Property | Value (Typical) | Test Standard/Condition |
|---|---|---|
Density | 8.8 g/cm³ | ASTM B311 |
Melting Point | 1,020°C | ASTM E29 |
Thermal Conductivity | 80 W/m·K at 20°C | ASTM E1952 |
Electrical Conductivity | 18% IACS at 20°C | ASTM B193 |
Coefficient of Expansion | 19 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 | 460–590 MPa | ASTM E8/E8M |
Yield Strength (0.2%) | 300–450 MPa | ASTM E8/E8M |
Elongation | 25–35% | ASTM E8/E8M |
Hardness | 70–90 HB | ASTM E10 |
Fatigue Strength | ~250 MPa | ASTM E466 |
Impact Resistance | Good | ASTM E23 |
Note: These values are typical for annealed Copper C905 and can vary based on specific processing conditions.
Key Characteristics of Copper C905 (Silicon Bronze)
Excellent Corrosion Resistance
Copper C905 offers superior corrosion resistance, especially in marine environments, making it ideal for underwater applications like boat fittings and pumps.
High Strength and Toughness
Copper C905 exhibits significantly improved strength and toughness compared to pure copper, ensuring better performance under high-stress conditions.
High Wear Resistance
The alloy is highly wear-resistant, making it ideal for use in high-friction applications such as bushings and bearings.
Good Weldability and Castability
Copper C905 is easy to weld and cast, offering great flexibility for manufacturers when producing complex parts with intricate designs.
Ideal for Harsh Environments
Copper C905 excels in extreme environments, including high-temperature and corrosive conditions, making it suitable for industrial, marine, and chemical applications.
CNC Machining Challenges and Solutions for Copper C905 (Silicon Bronze)
Machining Challenges
High Strength and Hardness
Copper C905’s high strength and hardness can cause tool wear during machining, especially during high-speed operations.
Solution: Use carbide or ceramic tools, apply appropriate cutting speeds, and ensure sufficient coolant flow to extend tool life.
Work Hardening
Like other bronze alloys, Copper C905 may work-harden, which can hinder further machining.
Solution: Maintain sharp cutting tools, lower cutting speeds, and use adequate coolant to reduce the work hardening effect.
Chip Formation
Copper C905 can produce long, stringy chips during machining, which can obstruct the process and reduce the machining quality.
Solution: Use chip breakers and optimize feed rates to promote smooth chip removal and prevent build-up.
Tool Wear
Due to its toughness and hardness, Copper C905 can cause excessive tool wear if not machined properly.
Solution: Regularly inspect and replace tools, using high-performance carbide-coated inserts to reduce tool wear.
Optimized Machining Strategies
Tool Selection
Parameter | Recommendation | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
Tool Material | Carbide or ceramic tools | Carbide tools withstand wear and provide longevity |
Geometry | Positive rake, sharp edges | Promotes smooth cutting and chip removal |
Cutting Speed | 100–150 m/min | Minimizes heat generation and ensures tool life |
Feed Rate | 0.10–0.20 mm/rev | Ensures consistent cutting and prevents material deformation |
Coolant | High-pressure coolant or air blast | Prevents heat buildup and improves surface finish |
Copper C905 Cutting Parameters (ISO 513 Compliance)
Operation | Speed (m/min) | Feed (mm/rev) | Depth of Cut (mm) | Coolant Pressure (bar) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Roughing | 100–150 | 0.10–0.20 | 2.0–3.5 | 30–50 |
Finishing | 150–200 | 0.05–0.10 | 0.5–1.0 | 35–50 |
Typical Machining Methods for Copper C905 (Silicon Bronze)
Machining Process | Function and Benefit for Copper C905 (Silicon Bronze) |
|---|---|
Ideal for high-precision machining of parts requiring strength and corrosion resistance. | |
Used for producing slots, grooves, and complex shapes for marine and industrial applications. | |
Suitable for creating cylindrical parts such as valves and mechanical components. | |
Perfect for creating holes for fasteners and other fittings in mechanical systems. | |
Ensures precision for internal machining of parts like bearings and bushings. | |
Provides excellent surface finishes for mechanical components exposed to wear. | |
Suitable for manufacturing intricate, multi-featured parts for marine and industrial applications. | |
Delivers ultra-tight tolerances for mechanical parts used in high-performance environments. | |
Ideal for creating intricate features in parts for aerospace and heavy-duty equipment. |
Surface Treatment for Copper C905 CNC Parts
Electroplating: Adds a protective coating that enhances corrosion resistance for marine components and other high-stress parts.
Polishing: Produces smooth, shiny finishes for electrical connectors and high-end components.
Brushing: Ideal for creating a matte finish that resists corrosion and provides aesthetic appeal in industrial parts.
PVD Coating: Adds a hard coating that improves wear resistance and protects parts exposed to harsh environments.
Passivation: Enhances the alloy's natural corrosion resistance, making Copper C905 suitable for exposure to seawater.
Powder Coating: Provides a durable finish that helps protect against UV damage, scratches, and chemical exposure.
Teflon Coating: Adds a chemical-resistant and low-friction layer, ideal for moving parts exposed to harsh chemicals.
Chrome Plating: Provides a glossy finish while offering superior corrosion protection for industrial components.
Industry Applications of Copper C905 (Silicon Bronze)
Aerospace Industry: Used in high-strength components like bushings, bearings, and gears for aircraft systems.
Electrical & Power: Ideal for electrical components in power generation systems, including connectors and terminals.
Marine Industry: Excellent for marine hardware and fittings due to its resistance to seawater corrosion.
FAQs
How does Copper C905 compare to other bronze alloys in strength and corrosion resistance?
What industries benefit most from using Copper C905?
Can Copper C905 be used in marine environments without corrosion?
What are the best surface treatments for Copper C905 to enhance its durability?
How does Copper C905 perform in high-temperature and high-wear environments?
Explore Related Blogs
