Beryllium Copper (UNS C17510)

Image of beryllium copper C17510 bars

Copper C17510 is a high-strength copper alloy that contains a small percentage of beryllium as an alloying element. It belongs to the copper beryllium family of alloys, which are known for their excellent strength, conductivity, and thermal properties.

Chemical Composition
ElementMinMax
Copper97.2%98.4%
Beryllium0.2%0.6%
Nickel1.4%2.2%

The following table provides a list of beryllium copper C17510 properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.

Click on the icon to switch between Metric and Imperial units.

Table of Beryllium Copper C17510 Properties
Physical Properties
Metric
Density8770 kg/m3
Mechanical PropertiesMetric
Tensile Strength (Ultimate)310 - 890 MPa
Tensile Strength (Yield)120 - 750 MPa
Shear Strength210 - 500 MPa
Young’s Modulus (E)131 GPa
Shear Modulus (G)51 GPa
Elongation at Break10%
Poisson’s Ratio (ν)0.27
Thermal PropertiesMetric
Melting Point1040 - 1080 °C
Thermal Conductivity210 W/m·K
Specific Heat Capacity (Cp)420 J/kg·K
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL)1.76×10-5 1/°C
Electrical PropertiesMetric
Electrical Conductivity2.78×107 S/m
Electrical Resistivity3.8×10-8 Ω·m

The values in this table are approximate and can vary depending on various factors such as the specific manufacturing process and heat treatment applied to the alloy.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Copper C17510

AdvantagesDisadvantages
High StrengthHigh Cost
Good Electrical ConductivityToxicity
Good Thermal ConductivityMachinability
Good Wear ResistanceLimited Availability
Good Corrosion Resistance

Applications of Copper C17510

Copper C17510 (Beryllium Copper Alloy C17510) finds applications in various industries where a combination of high strength, conductivity, and other properties is required. Some common applications include:

  • Electrical Connectors: Copper C17510 is widely used in electrical connectors, terminals, and contact springs. Its high strength and conductivity make it suitable for applications that require reliable electrical connections, such as connectors in electronic devices, automotive components, and telecommunications equipment.
  • Springs and Contacts: The excellent spring properties of Copper C17510 make it ideal for applications where resilience and durability are essential. It is commonly used in springs, switches, and electrical contacts in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and electrical equipment.
  • Bearings and Bushings: Copper C17510’s wear resistance and high strength make it suitable for applications requiring sliding or rotational motion, such as bearings, bushings, and thrust washers. Its properties help minimize friction and extend the lifespan of components in machinery and equipment.
  • Heat Sinks and Thermal Management: Due to its good thermal conductivity, Copper C17510 is used in heat sinks and thermal management solutions. It efficiently dissipates heat in electronic devices, power modules, and heat exchangers, helping to prevent overheating and maintain optimal operating temperatures.
  • Oil and Gas Industry: Copper C17510 is utilized in the oil and gas industry for components exposed to corrosive environments and high pressures. It is commonly used in downhole tools, drilling equipment, valve seats, and connectors due to its corrosion resistance, high strength, and wear resistance.
  • Aerospace Industry: Copper C17510 finds applications in the aerospace industry, particularly in connectors, contacts, and electrical components of aircraft and spacecraft. Its properties make it suitable for demanding environments that require high strength, conductivity, and resistance to wear and corrosion.
  • Automotive Industry: Copper C17510 is utilized in various automotive components, including electrical connectors, terminals, and springs. It provides reliable electrical connections, withstands mechanical stress, and offers resistance to wear, making it valuable in automotive applications.
Similar Alloys