The only copper alloy that can match the strength of heat-treated steel — C17200 age-hardens to 1380 MPa UTS while retaining decent electrical and thermal conductivity. The key non-sparking material for hand tools in explosive atmospheres, springs, electrical contacts, and oil & gas downhole components. Handle with respect: beryllium oxide dust is toxic; machining must follow OSHA-compliant ventilation.
No other alloy reaches 1000+ MPa with 20%+ IACS conductivity — essential for high-current spring contacts.
Required for hand tools in refineries, munitions plants, and gas-line service. Also used in MRI-compatible instruments.
Age-hardened BeCu is the premier spring material for 10⁸+ cycle applications — automotive relays, aerospace switches.
| Element | Content |
|---|---|
| Copper | Balance |
| Beryllium | 1.80–2.00% |
| Nickel + Cobalt | 0.20% min |
| Nickel + Cobalt + Iron (max) | 0.60% |
Composition per ASTM B196. Specific mill test reports (MTR) available on request for production orders.
Beryllium oxide in swarf is a regulated carcinogen. Use enclosed machining, wet-cut coolant, HEPA filtration, and respiratory protection per OSHA 1910.1024.
"A" (annealed, soft, formable) vs "AT" (age-hardened, max strength) vs "HT" (half-hard). Heat treat after machining if tight tolerances required.
For contact springs where health risk outweighs performance, C725 nickel-silver or C17410 (lower beryllium) may be acceptable.
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