MetalsWhat is C17510 copper and what is it used for? Nickel-beryllium copper: strength and conductivity
C17510 copper is nickel-beryllium copper: strength and conductivity. In this guide we explain what C17510 copper is, its composition, its properties, what it is used for and the sizes we stock.
What is C17510 copper?
C17510 copper (copper-nickel-beryllium, CuNi2Be) is a heat-treatable alloy that combines high electrical and thermal conductivity with good mechanical strength. It offers considerably higher conductivity than C17200, making it ideal for components that require strength and efficient transfer of electricity or heat.
Chemical composition of C17510 copper
This is the typical composition of C17510 copper (UNS C17510 / ASTM/ASME B441 / B534 / RWMA Class 3 / EN CW110C / DIN 2.0850 standard):
| Element | Contents | What for? |
|---|---|---|
| Beryllium (Be) | 0.20 – 0.60 % | Beryllium: provides the high strength (hardens through heat treatment) |
| Nickel (Ni) | 1.40 – 2.20 % | Nickel: strength and hardenability |
| Cobalt (Co) | 0.30 % max. | Cobalt: refines and hardens |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.10 % max. | Iron, kept limited |
| Aluminum (Al) | 0.20 % max. | Aluminum (residual) |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.20 % max. | Silicon: forms hardening compounds |
| Copper (Cu) | Balance | Base metal |
C17510 properties and treatment
C17510 (copper-nickel-beryllium) is hardenable by heat treatment and offers a conductivity considerably higher than that of C17200, with good mechanical strength. That balance between conduction and strength makes it ideal for resistance welding electrodes and electrode holders, and for components that must conduct electricity or heat well while also carrying a load.
What is it for? Applications of C17510
C17510 copper is mainly used in:
- Resistance welding electrodes
- Electrode holders and arms
- Molds and mold inserts
- Power electrical connectors
- Switching components
- Heat sinks and thermal components
- Conductive springs
- Power electronics components
- Die casting plungers
Forms and sizes we carry
At NAT MAC we stock C17510 copper in these forms and sizes:
| Package size | Sizes |
|---|---|
| Plates | 0.50" – 3" (12.7 – 76.2 mm) |
| Round bars | 0.50" – 3" (12.7 – 76.2 mm) |
If you need a particular size, tell us which one and we will gladly source it for you.
C17510 equivalents and standards
C17510 copper is also identified by these standards: UNS C17510 / ASTM/ASME B441 / B534 / RWMA Class 3 / EN CW110C / DIN 2.0850. You can see how to read them in our article on metal standards.
In summary
- C17510 is nickel-beryllium copper, hardenable by heat treatment
- More conductivity than C17200 with good strength
- Ideal for resistance welding electrodes and electrode holders
- We carry it in plates, round bars, cut to size
Why buy your C17510 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 C17510 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.
