Zirconium Copper (UNS C15000)
Zirconium copper C15000 is a high-strength copper alloy that contains small additions of zirconium as the primary alloying element. It offers excellent mechanical properties, high electrical and thermal conductivity, and good corrosion resistance.
| Chemical Composition | ||
|---|---|---|
| Element | Min | Max |
| Copper | 99.8% | 99.9% |
| Phosphorus | 0.05% | 0.15% |
The following table provides a list of copper C15000 properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.
Click on the icon to switch between Metric and Imperial units.
| Physical Properties | Metric |
|---|---|
| Density | 8890 kg/m3 |
| Mechanical Properties | Metric |
| Tensile Strength (Ultimate) | 430 MPa |
| Tensile Strength (Yield) | 415 MPa |
| Shear Strength | 250 MPa |
| Young’s Modulus (E) | 129 GPa |
| Shear Modulus (G) | 44 GPa |
| Elongation at Break | 15% |
| Poisson’s Ratio (ν) | 0.33 |
| Thermal Properties | Metric |
| Melting Point | 980 - 1080 °C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 370 W/m·K |
| Specific Heat Capacity (Cp) | 385 J/kg·K |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL) | 1.7×10-5 1/°C |
| Electrical Properties | Metric |
| Electrical Conductivity | 5.39×107 S/m |
| Electrical Resistivity | 1.86×10-8 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 C15000
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| High Strength | High Cost |
| Good Electrical Conductivity | Limited Availability |
| Excellent Thermal Conductivity | Sensitive to Welding Conditions |
| Good Corrosion Resistance |
Applications of Copper C15000
Copper C15000 (Zirconium Copper) finds application in various industries and areas where a combination of high strength, electrical conductivity, and thermal conductivity is required. Some common applications include:
- Electrical Connectors: Copper C15000 is used in electrical connectors due to its excellent electrical conductivity and strength. It ensures efficient electrical current flow while withstanding mechanical stresses and maintaining dimensional stability.
- Electrical Switches: The high strength and good electrical conductivity of Copper C15000 make it suitable for electrical switch components. It can handle the electrical load while providing durability and resistance to wear.
- Resistance Welding Components: Copper C15000 is used in resistance welding electrodes and related components. Its high strength and resistance to heat ensure reliable and efficient welding operations.
- Injection Molding: The excellent thermal conductivity of Copper C15000 makes it suitable for molds used in plastic injection molding. It helps in efficient cooling and solidification of the molded parts, resulting in improved cycle times and quality.
- Heat Sinks: Copper C15000’s high thermal conductivity and strength make it ideal for heat sink applications. It effectively dissipates heat from electronic components and helps in temperature management.
- Electrical Contacts: Copper C15000 is utilized in electrical contact materials due to its combination of electrical conductivity and mechanical strength. It ensures reliable and efficient electrical contact in switches, relays, and other electrical devices.
- Welding Electrodes: The high strength and resistance to heat make Copper C15000 suitable for welding electrodes. It provides good conductivity and durability during welding operations.