Technical Data
Alloy 25, also known as Beryllium Copper Alloy 25, is a high-strength copper alloy that contains beryllium, nickel, and cobalt. It is known for its excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, high strength, and good corrosion resistance.
Beryllium Copper is often used in applications where a combination of high strength and good electrical and thermal conductivity is required. It is commonly used for connectors, switches, and electrical components in the aerospace, automotive, and defense industries. It is also used to construct springs, fasteners, and other mechanical parts that require high strength and good corrosion resistance.
The chemical composition of Alloy 25 may vary depending on the specific grade, but it typically contains the following:
- Copper: Balances the properties of the alloy and provides excellent electrical and thermal conductivity.
- Beryllium: Improves the alloy’s strength and hardness.
- Nickel: Improves the alloy’s strength, toughness, and corrosion resistance.
- Cobalt: This element also helps to improve strength and toughness.
To improve its properties, alloy 25 may also contain trace amounts of other elements, such as iron, manganese, and zinc. The specific chemical composition of a particular grade of Alloy 25 can be found in the manufacturer’s specifications or data sheets.
Alloy 25 can be heat treated to improve its mechanical properties, and it can also be tempered to increase its toughness. It is a versatile material well-suited for various applications in various industries.
Heat Treatment
This process involves heating and cooling metals to alter their microstructure and improve their mechanical properties. Beryllium copper alloys are known for their high strength and excellent electrical and thermal conductivity. They are often heat treated to enhance their mechanical properties. The heat treatment of beryllium copper alloy 25 involves heating the material to a temperature above its recrystallization temperature and then allowing it to cool at a controlled rate. This process helps refine the material’s microstructure and improve its mechanical properties.
Tempering
Tempering involves heating the material to a lower temperature than the heat treatment temperature and then allowing it to cool rapidly. This process helps to increase the material’s toughness by reducing its brittleness. Tempering is usually done after the material has been heat treated to improve its properties further.