MetalsWhat is C17200 copper and what is it used for? The highest-strength (beryllium) copper
C17200 copper is the maximum-strength copper (beryllium). In this guide we explain what C17200 copper is, its composition, its properties, what it is used for and the sizes we stock.
What is C17200 copper?
C17200 copper (copper-beryllium, CuBe2) is the highest-strength copper alloy, hardenable by heat treatment. In AT temper it reaches hardness of 36–41 HRC while retaining useful electrical and thermal conductivity, with non-magnetic, non-sparking behavior. It is the go-to choice for molds, springs, connectors and safety tools.
Chemical composition of C17200 copper
This is the typical composition of C17200 copper (UNS C17200 / ASTM/ASME B196 / B194 / RWMA Class 4 / EN CW101C / DIN 2.1247 / JIS C1720 standard):
| Element | Contents | What for? |
|---|---|---|
| Beryllium (Be) | 1.80 – 2.00 % | Beryllium: provides the high strength (hardens through heat treatment) |
| Ni + Co | 0.20 % min. | Nickel and cobalt: harden the alloy |
| Ni + Fe + Co | 0.60 % max. | Sum of Ni, Fe and Co (limited) |
| Aluminum (Al) | 0.20 % max. | Aluminum (residual) |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.20 % max. | Silicon: forms hardening compounds |
| Copper (Cu) | Balance | Base metal |
C17200 properties and treatment
C17200 (copper-beryllium) is the copper alloy with the highest mechanical strength. It is hardenable by heat treatment: in the AT temper it reaches hardnesses of 36 to 41 HRC, comparable to those of a steel, while retaining useful conductivity. It is nonmagnetic and non-sparking, so it is used in safety tools, and its high hardness and good conductivity make it ideal for injection molds, springs and precision connectors.
What is it for? Applications of C17200
C17200 copper is mainly used in:
- Injection and blow molds
- Precision springs and contacts
- High-performance electrical connectors
- Non-sparking tools
- High-load bushings and bearings
- Aircraft components
- Mold inserts
- Drilling components (oil & gas)
- Welding electrode holders
Forms and sizes we carry
At NAT MAC we stock C17200 copper in these forms and sizes:
| Package size | Sizes |
|---|---|
| Round bars | 0.50" – 8" (12.7 – 203.2 mm) |
| Plates | 1/4" – 6" (6.35 – 152.4 mm) |
If you need a particular size, tell us which one and we will gladly source it for you.
C17200 equivalents and standards
C17200 copper is also identified by these standards: UNS C17200 / ASTM/ASME B196 / B194 / RWMA Class 4 / EN CW101C / DIN 2.1247 / JIS C1720. You can see how to read them in our article on metal standards.
In summary
- C17200 is beryllium copper, the highest-strength copper alloy
- Hardenable by treatment: 36–41 HRC; non-magnetic and spark-resistant
- Ideal for molds, springs, connectors and non-sparking tools
- We carry it in round bars, plates, cut to size
Why buy your C17200 copper at NAT MAC?
We have more than 54 years of experience as an industrial supplier and ISO 9001 certified quality. We carry copper and its alloys, and we help you choose the right grade for your application.
- Quality C17200 copper, fully backed and traceable
- Material cut to the size you need
- Advice on choosing the right copper for your conductivity and strength needs
- Electrolytic copper and high-performance alloys
- On-time deliveries and competitive prices
Tell us what you'll make and what you need (conductivity, strength or weldability), and we'll recommend the right copper and form. Request your free quote.
Sources: data sheet from our NAT MAC catalog (composition, sizes and applications) and public references from the copper industry. Values are for reference and may vary by standard, temper and heat.
