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C17200 Beryllium copper
CuBe, BeCu, C172. High strength and heat resistant coppers. Spring contacts, connectors, non-sparking tools, mould inserts, high fatigue components.
Specification
- UNS
- C17200
- Conductivity
- 22 percent IACS
- Machinability
- 20 (C36000 = 100)
- Specification
- ASTM B194 (plate, sheet, strip, rolled bar), ASTM B196 (rod and bar)
- Usual temper
- TB00 solution treated for machining, TF00 or TH04 on the finished part
Published typical values for the alloy, not a promise from any shop. Where these numbers come from.
How it machines
Machine soft at TB00 for an easier cut and age afterwards, accepting a predictable dimensional change, or machine in the hardened temper for final dimensions at the cost of cycle time and tooling. Particulate from machining requires shop controls, which is a process question at the shop, not a reason to avoid the alloy in a design.
Watch out. A structural alloy that happens to conduct, not a conductor. Machining generates particulate that requires shop controls, so say it is beryllium copper in the RFQ.
Typical parts
- Spring contacts and connectors
- Non-sparking tools
- Injection mould inserts
- Undersea and aerospace components
- High load bushings
When not to specify it
Not a conductor. If you want copper for conductivity, this is the wrong alloy. Do not send the RFQ without stating that the material is beryllium copper.
Drawing callout
Replace the bracket with the ASTM specification for your product form. The RFQ builder does this for you and adds edge, finish and plating lines.
Beryllium copper, UNS C17200, [ASTM spec for your product form], temper TB00 solution treated for machining
Other high strength and heat resistant coppers
Age hardened alloys chosen for strength, hardness or hot performance. Conductivity drops, sometimes a long way, and none of them machine quickly.
- C15000
Zirconium copperResistance welding electrodes for aluminum and coated steel, and parts that must stay conductive while hot. - C18150
Chromium zirconium copperWelding electrodes and holders, high duty contacts, parts that see heat and load together. - C18200
Chromium copperThe general purpose resistance welding electrode material. Also mould inserts and hot stiff parts. - C17510
Nickel beryllium copperWelding electrode holders, high conductivity springs, parts needing strength with moderate conductivity.