C63000 is a high-strength nickel-aluminum bronze alloy engineered for heavy-duty industrial and aerospace applications. Governed by the ASTM B150/B150M standard for rods, bars, and shapes, this alloy is characterized by its exceptional mechanical properties, resistance to seawater corrosion, and stability at elevated temperatures.
1. Chemical Composition
The alloy’s performance is derived from a precise metallurgical balance of Aluminum, Nickel, and Iron.
| Element | Symbol | Content (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Copper | Cu | Remainder |
| Aluminum | Al | 9.0 – 11.0 |
| Nickel (incl. Co) | Ni | 4.0 – 5.5 |
| Iron | Fe | 2.0 – 4.0 |
| Manganese | Mn | 1.5 Max |
| Zinc | Zn | 0.30 Max |
| Tin | Sn | 0.20 Max |
2. Mechanical Properties (ASTM B150 Standard)
C63000 offers one of the highest strength-to-weight ratios among copper-based alloys.
| Property | Metric Value | Imperial Value |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 690 – 900 MPa | 100,000 – 130,000 psi |
| Yield Strength (0.2% offset) | 345 – 550 MPa | 50,000 – 80,000 psi |
| Elongation (in 2″ or 50mm) | 5% – 15% | 5% – 15% |
| Brinell Hardness (3000kg) | 180 – 250 HBW | 180 – 250 HBW |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 117 GPa | 17,000 ksi |
3. Physical Properties
| Property | Value (Metric) | Value (Imperial) |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 7.58 g/cm³ | 0.274 lb/in³ |
| Melting Point (Liquidus) | 1,054 °C | 1,930 °F |
| Thermal Conductivity | 37.7 W/m·K | 21.8 Btu/ft²/ft/hr/°F |
| Electrical Conductivity | 7% IACS | 7% IACS |
| Specific Heat Capacity | 377 J/kg·K | 0.09 Btu/lb/°F |
4. Fabrication & Thermal Characteristics
C63000 is primarily worked through hot-forming processes and responds well to specific joining techniques.
- Machinability: 20% (Relative to C36000 Free Cutting Brass).
- Hot Working Temperature: 788°C – 927°C (1450°F – 1700°F).
- Annealing Temperature: 593°C – 704°C (1100°F – 1300°F).
- Welding Suitability: Excellent for Gas Shielded Arc (TIG/MIG) and Coated Metal Arc welding; not recommended for Oxyacetylene or Soldering.
5. Comparative Standards
| Region/Standard | Designation |
|---|---|
| UNS | C63000 |
| Aerospace | AMS 4640 |
| European (EN) | CW307G / CuAl10Ni5Fe4 |
| British (BS) | CA 104 |
| ISO | CuAl10Ni5Fe4 |
6. Technical Performance Features
- Corrosion Resistance: Outstanding resistance to impingement, stress corrosion cracking, and cavitation in seawater and brackish water.
- Anti-Galling Properties: Exceptional metal-to-metal wear characteristics, making it ideal for non-lubricated or poorly lubricated environments.
- Elevated Temperature Strength: Retains significant tensile and yield strength at temperatures up to 300°C (approx. 600°F).
7. Primary Applications
- Aerospace: Landing gear bushings, sleeve bearings, and actuator components.
- Marine Engineering: Propeller shafts, pump internal components, and marine fasteners.
- Industrial: High-load bushings, valve stems, heavy-duty gears, and wear plates.
- Oil & Gas: Drill collars and blowout preventer (BOP) parts.