The strongest copper alloy, with high-level electrical conductivity
Beryllium copper (BeCu) is a copper super-alloy that delivers the highest strength in the copper family through age hardening, while retaining excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, remaining non-magnetic and non-sparking.
Overview
BeCu is a non-ferrous metal that combines steel-grade strength with the electrical and thermal conductivity of copper, making it hard to substitute in applications that demand both mechanical strength and electrical properties at once.
Two main grade families are in use: the high-strength group (C17200), which emphasizes hardness and fatigue resistance, and the high-conductivity group (C17500 / C17510), which emphasizes electrical and thermal conductivity for mold and electrode applications. Our team helps you select the grade that matches your actual application.
Key properties
- Standard grade (UNS)
- C17200 (high strength), C17500 / C17510 (high conductivity)
- Maximum tensile strength
- Up to ~1,300–1,400 MPa (190–200 ksi) after age hardening
- Electrical conductivity
- C17200 ~22% IACS · C17500 up to ~45–60% IACS
- Hardness
- Up to ~40 HRC
- Key properties
- Non-magnetic · Non-sparking · Excellent fatigue resistance
Material highlights
The strongest in the copper family
After age hardening, BeCu delivers strength comparable to many steel grades, ideal for connectors, springs, and components subjected to repeated loading without fatigue.
Excellent heat dissipation in mold applications
Thermal conductivity many times higher than steel helps reduce cooling cycle time in plastic injection and blow molding, raising output and part quality (see the Moldmax grade family).
Safe in spark-hazard areas
Its non-sparking and non-magnetic properties make it suitable for tools and components in oil and gas work and in areas where explosion risk must be controlled.
Applications & available forms
Common applications
- Connectors, springs, and electrical contacts
- Plastic injection and blow molds (heat dissipation)
- Non-sparking tools for oil and gas work
- Aerospace components and bearings/bushings
- Welding electrodes and electronics
Available forms
- Round Bar
- Plate
- Strip
- Tube
- Block
Further reading from our engineers
Frequently asked questions
How is Beryllium Copper (BeCu) different from ordinary copper?
BeCu reaches strength comparable to many steel grades while keeping excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, making it ideal for molds, connectors, and springs that need both strength and conductivity.
Should I choose grade C17200 or C17500?
Choose C17200 when maximum strength and hardness matter (springs, connectors); choose C17500 / C17510 when electrical and thermal conductivity matter most (mold tooling, electrodes). Our engineers help you decide based on the application.
Is BeCu safe to handle?
Solid BeCu parts are safe for normal handling. The main precaution is dust and fume generated during grinding, machining, or welding — these require proper extraction and ventilation per workplace safety standards.
Do you provide a material (Mill) certificate?
Yes — we supply materials with traceable quality and chemical-composition certificates to meet industrial requirements.
Ready to start your project?
Talk to our engineers directly, or request a quote for your system.