Alloy C95500 is an aluminium bronze alloy comprising 79.0% copper, 10.0% aluminium, 9.0% nickel, and 2.0% iron. Adding nickel and iron to the alloy gives it superior strength and wear resistance while improving its corrosion resistance. The inclusion of aluminium in the alloy enhances its hardness and tensile strength. The alloy is also known for its excellent machinability, making producing high-quality parts and components easier.
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Al, Aluminium/Aluminum | 10.0 – 11.5 |
| Cu, Copper | 78.0 |
| Fe, Iron | 3.0 – 5.0 |
| Mn, Manganese | 3.50 |
| Ni, Nickel | 3.0 – 5.50 |
| Other | 0.50 |
The physical properties of alloy C95500 include a density of 7.77 g/cm3 and a melting point of 1000°C (1832°F). Its thermal conductivity is 43 W/mK at 20°C, while its electrical conductivity is 9.2% IACS. Additionally, the alloy exhibits low magnetic permeability, making it ideal for applications where electromagnetic interference (EMI) is a concern.
| Properties | Metric | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 7.53 g/cm3 | 0.272 lb/in³ |
Alloy C95500 boasts impressive mechanical properties, including a tensile strength of 690 MPa, yield strength of 250 MPa, and an elongation of 20%. It also has a Rockwell hardness range of B85 to B95, indicating high wear and abrasion resistance. The alloy can withstand high stresses and strains, making it perfect for harsh and demanding applications.
| Properties | Metric | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Thermal expansion co-efficient (20.0 – 300°C/68.0 – 572°F) | 16.2 µm/m°C | 9.00 µin/in°F |
| Thermal conductivity (20°C/68°F) | 42.0 W/mK | 291 BTU in/hr.ft°F |
Alloy C95500 is widely used in various industries, including marine, aerospace, and oil and gas. Its excellent corrosion resistance makes it an ideal material for marine applications such as propellers, valves, pumps, and other components that operate in saltwater environments. The alloy is also used in aerospace components such as bushings, bearings, and landing gear due to its high strength and wear resistance. Additionally, alloy C95500 is used in the oil and gas industry for valves, pumps, and other equipment that operate in corrosive environments.
As mentioned earlier, alloy C95500 has a high hardness range of B85 to B95. This means the alloy is resistant to wear and abrasion and can withstand high stresses and strains. However, the hardness of the alloy can be controlled by altering its heat treatment process. The heat treatment process can affect the alloy's microstructure, impacting its strength, hardness, and other mechanical properties.
The heat treatment of alloy C95500 involves a solution annealing process followed by quenching to achieve the desired microstructure. The solution annealing process involves heating the alloy to a specific temperature and holding it for a specific time before quenching it in water or oil. The process results in a uniform microstructure with excellent mechanical properties such as high strength and hardness.
Alloy C95500 can be welded using various welding techniques, such as gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), and shielded metal arc welding (SMAW). However, preheating the alloy before welding is essential to prevent cracking and distortion. The recommended preheat temperatures range between 150°C to 250°C.
One of the standout properties of alloy C95500 is its excellent corrosion resistance. The alloy can withstand exposure to saltwater, chemicals, and other corrosive environments without rusting or deteriorating. Its corrosion resistance is attributed to the addition of nickel and iron to the alloy, which forms a protective oxide layer on the surface that resists corrosion.
