Technical Data
Beryllium Copper Alloy 25, encompassing grades C17200 and C17300, represents a significant achievement in the development and application of high-performance materials. Our expertise in leveraging the unique properties of this metal has positioned us as leaders in its utilization for various industrial applications.
Understanding Alloy 25 Composition
Alloy 25’s distinctive composition combines copper and beryllium, with copper making up approximately 98.1% of the alloy, and beryllium at a nominal 1.90%, ranging from 1.80% to 2.0%. The addition of cobalt and nickel, each at a minimum of 0.20%, alongside a maximum of 0.60% of iron, enhances the alloy’s strength and stress relaxation resistance. Trace amounts of silicon and aluminum, each capped at 0.20%, along with lead—specifically in the C17300 grade ranging from 0.20% to 0.60%—further tailor the material’s properties for specialized applications.
Physical Properties Highlighting Performance
Alloy 25’s melting range falls between 1590 – 1800°F (865 – 980°C), with a density of 0.298 lb/cu in. at 68°F (8.26 gm/cm³ at 20°C) and a specific gravity of 8.26. Its thermal conductivity is noted at 62-75 BTU/sq ft/ft/hr/°F at 68°F (0.26-.31 cal/sq cm/cm/sec/°C at 20°C), demonstrating excellent heat dissipation capabilities. The electrical resistivity stands at 46.2 Ohms-circ mil/ft at 68°F (7.68 microhm-cm at 20°C), showcasing its effectiveness in electrical applications. These properties, combined with its specific heat and coefficients of thermal expansion and electrical conductivity, underline the alloy’s versatility.
Mechanical Properties for Diverse Applications
The alloy’s mechanical properties vary significantly from its as-supplied state to after precipitation heat treatment, indicating a wide range of uses. Tensile strengths can increase dramatically post-treatment, with the standard condition showing ranges from 58-78 KSI (400-540 MPa) to 155-180 KSI (1070-1240 MPa) for extra hard conditions. Post heat treatment, these values can soar to 165-190 KSI (1105-1310 MPa) to 205-235 KSI (1415-1620 MPa), respectively, highlighting the material’s capacity for enhanced performance in demanding environments.
Heat Treatment Processes Tailoring Material Properties
Precise heat treatment processes are pivotal for achieving the optimal mechanical properties in Alloy 25. These treatments, which include solution annealing and age-hardening, are specified with exact temperatures and durations to cater to different hardness levels and forms of the alloy. The guidelines ensure the material reaches its maximum potential for strength and durability, making it suitable for a wide array of industrial applications.
Beryllium Copper Alloy 25 stands out for its exceptional combination of strength, conductivity, and resilience, making it an ideal choice for high-performance applications across various industries. Its unique blend of copper and beryllium, enhanced by specific elements like cobalt, nickel, and, in certain grades, lead, provides a material that is not only versatile but also highly dependable under challenging conditions.