Strong, wear-resistant, and anti-galling for heavy-duty work
ToughMet is a spinodal copper-nickel-tin (Cu-Ni-Sn) alloy that delivers high strength, wear and corrosion resistance, and excellent anti-galling properties, ideal for bearings, bushings, and heavy-load components.
Overview
ToughMet hardens through a spinodal mechanism, delivering strength and toughness together while remaining non-magnetic and resistant to chloride environments such as seawater and offshore service.
Its key strength is anti-galling and wear resistance when sliding against steel, making it a popular material in oil and gas, aerospace, and heavy machinery.
Key properties
- Standard grade (UNS)
- C72900 (ToughMet 3), C96900
- Tensile strength
- Up to ~1,100–1,300 MPa
- Key properties
- Anti-galling · Wear-resistant · Corrosion-resistant · Non-magnetic
- Environment
- Chloride/seawater resistant, suited to offshore work
Material highlights
Anti-galling against steel
Reduces galling and wear when sliding against steel shafts, making it ideal for bushings and bearings operating under high load.
Strong yet tough
The spinodal mechanism provides high strength while retaining toughness, withstanding impact and alternating loads well.
Corrosion-resistant in seawater
Resists chloride environments, making it suitable for offshore drilling and equipment exposed to seawater.
Applications & available forms
Common applications
- Heavy-load bearings and bushings
- Oil and gas drilling components
- Aircraft landing-gear bushings
- Heavy machinery and mining
- Seawater/offshore-resistant components
Available forms
- Round Bar
- Tube / Sleeve
- Plate
Further reading from our engineers
Frequently asked questions
What makes ToughMet better than ordinary copper alloys?
ToughMet combines high strength with anti-galling behaviour against steel and seawater corrosion resistance, making it ideal for heavy-load bushings and bearings where ordinary copper alloys fall short.
Why is ToughMet suited to oil & gas?
Its strength, chloride-corrosion resistance, and non-magnetic nature suit drilling components, bushings, and bearings in offshore service that must withstand both load and harsh environments.
What forms does ToughMet come in?
Round bar, tube/sleeve, and plate — with guidance on selecting the grade and form to suit how you machine your parts.
Ready to start your project?
Talk to our engineers directly, or request a quote for your system.