Introdução

C17510 and C17200 are both beryllium copper alloys, known for their excellent combination of high strength, conductivity, and corrosion resistance. These alloys are widely used in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, electronics, and oil & gas. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different applications.

Composição química

The chemical composition of these alloys plays a crucial role in determining their properties and performance.

ElementoC17510 (wt%)C17200 (wt%)
Cobre98.1 – 99.596.5 – 98.1
Beryllium0.2 – 0.61,8 – 2,0
Cobalt + Nickel0.2 – 1.40.2 – 0.6
Ferro0.1 – 0.4Max 0.2
AlumínioMax 0.2
SilícioMax 0.2
OutrosMax 0.5Max 0.5

The main difference in composition is the beryllium content, which is significantly higher in C17200. This difference affects various properties of the alloys.

Propriedades mecânicas

Mechanical properties are crucial for determining the suitability of these alloys for specific applications.

PropriedadeC17510C17200
Resistência à tração (MPa)655 – 7951140 – 1310
Força de rendimento (MPa)520 – 725965 – 1140
Alongamento (%)10 – 203 – 10
Hardness (HRB)90 – 10097 – 105
Elastic Modulus (GPa)131131

C17200 generally exhibits higher strength and hardness, while C17510 offers better ductility (elongation).

Propriedades físicas

Physical properties are important for applications involving thermal and electrical conductivity.

PropriedadeC17510C17200
Density (g/cm³)8.838.25
Electrical Conductivity (%IACS)45 – 6522 – 28
Condutividade Térmica (W/m·K)208 – 300105 – 130
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (µm/m·°C)17,817,0
Melting Range (°C)870 – 980870 – 980

C17510 demonstrates superior electrical and thermal conductivity compared to C17200.

Tratamento térmico

Both alloys can be strengthened through heat treatment, but the processes and results differ:

AspectoC17510C17200
Tratamento de solução900 – 925°C760 – 780°C
Aging Temperature460 – 480°C315 – 345°C
Aging Time2 – 3 hours2 – 3 hours
Strength IncreaseModeradoSignificant

C17200 typically achieves a more significant increase in strength through heat treatment due to its higher beryllium content.

Resistência à corrosão

Both alloys exhibit excellent corrosion resistance, but there are some differences:

AmbienteC17510C17200
AtmosphericExcelenteExcelente
Água do marMuito bomMuito bom
AcidsBomBom
AlkalisBomBom
Stress Corrosion Cracking ResistanceExcelenteMuito bom

C17510 may have a slight edge in stress corrosion cracking resistance due to its lower beryllium content.

Fabrication Characteristics

The fabrication properties of these alloys are important for manufacturing processes:

CaracterísticaC17510C17200
MaquinabilidadeBomBom
FormabilidadeMuito bomBom
SoldabilidadeBomJusto
Trabalho a QuenteBomBom
Trabalho a frioExcelenteMuito bom

C17510 generally offers better formability and weldability due to its lower beryllium content and higher ductility.

Formulários

The unique properties of each alloy make them suitable for different applications:

C17510 Applications:

  1. Conectores elétricos
  2. High-performance springs
  3. Resistance welding electrodes
  4. Heat sinks
  5. Integrated circuit lead frames
  6. Bearings and bushings
  7. Non-sparking tools

C17200 Applications:

  1. High-strength springs
  2. Diafragmas
  3. Fole
  4. Precision instruments
  5. Molds for plastic injection
  6. Bearings in corrosive environments
  7. Surgical and dental instruments

Cost Considerations

The cost of these alloys can vary depending on market conditions and availability:

FatorC17510C17200
Custo da matéria-primaMais baixoMais alto
Custo de processamentoModeradoModerate to High
Custo totalMais baixoMais alto

C17200 is generally more expensive due to its higher beryllium content.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Both alloys contain beryllium, which requires careful handling:

AspectoC17510C17200
Beryllium ContentLower (0.2 – 0.6%)Higher (1.8 – 2.0%)
Dust HazardModeradoMais alto
PPE RequirementsPadrãoEnhanced
RecyclingEasierMore Complex

The lower beryllium content in C17510 makes it somewhat easier to handle and recycle.

Comparison Summary

CaracterísticaC17510C17200
ForçaBomExcelente
CondutividadeExcelenteBom
DuctilidadeMuito bomBom
Resistência à corrosãoExcelenteExcelente
FabricabilityMuito bomBom
CustoMais baixoMais alto
Safety ConsiderationsModeradoMais alto

Conclusão

Both C17510 and C17200 are high-performance copper-beryllium alloys with excellent combinations of strength, conductivity, and corrosion resistance. The choice between them depends on the specific requirements of the application:

  • Choose C17510 when:
  • Higher electrical and thermal conductivity is required
  • Better formability and weldability are needed
  • Cost is a significant factor
  • Lower beryllium content is preferred for safety reasons
  • Choose C17200 when:
  • Maximum strength and hardness are crucial
  • The application can tolerate lower conductivity
  • The higher cost is justified by performance requirements

Understanding the similarities and differences between these alloys allows engineers and designers to make informed decisions, ensuring optimal performance and cost-effectiveness in their applications.