C51000 Alloy / C510 Phosphor Bronze

C51000 Alloy / C510 Phosphor Bronze

At conexmetals.com, we supply C51000 Phosphor Bronze (C510 Alloy) – a high-quality copper-tin-phosphorus alloy known for its excellent corrosion resistance, electrical conductivity, and moderate strength. This alloy is ideal for electrical connectors, springs, bearings, bushings, and marine components where reliability and durability are essential.

C51000 is widely used in precision engineering, marine hardware, electrical and industrial equipment, thanks to its balance of machinability, corrosion resistance, and mechanical performance.


Chemical Composition

ElementMin (%)Max (%)
Copper (Cu + Named Elements)99.5Rem
Tin (Sn)4.06.0
Phosphorus (P)0.030.35
Lead (Pb)0.35
Zinc (Zn)1.0
Iron (Fe)0.15

Key Notes:

  • Tin enhances corrosion resistance and mechanical strength.

  • Phosphorus improves wear resistance and fatigue strength.

  • Small amounts of lead improve machinability, making it suitable for precision components.


Mechanical Properties (Typical at 20°C)

FormTemperCodeTensile Strength (ksi)Yield Strength 0.5% (ksi)Elongation (%)Hardness
Rod / WireHalf HardH0250353060 HB
Rod / WireHardH0465502075 HB
Flat ProductsSpringH089070585 HB

Insights:

  • Suitable for components under moderate mechanical stress.

  • Retains shape under long-term loading.

  • Excellent for electrical and precision parts.


Physical Properties

PropertyValue
Melting Point1750–1800°F
Density0.32 lb/cu in
Specific Gravity8.9
Electrical Conductivity18–20% IACS
Thermal Conductivity50 Btu/sq ft/ft/hr/°F
Thermal Expansion9.6 × 10⁻⁶ /°F
Modulus of Elasticity15,000 ksi
Modulus of Rigidity5,500 ksi

Notes:

  • Excellent electrical conductivity makes it ideal for connectors.

  • Thermal stability ensures minimal expansion under temperature variations.


Fabrication & Machining

ProcessSuitability
SolderingExcellent
BrazingGood
Cold WorkingGood
Machinability75–80% Rating
WeldingNot Recommended

Tips:

  • Use standard bronze machining techniques.

  • Avoid high-heat welding; brazing is preferred.

  • Annealing restores ductility after cold working.


Thermal Treatment

ProcessMin Temp (°F)Max Temp (°F)
Annealing8501200

Benefits:

  • Enhances ductility and workability.

  • Reduces internal stresses after cold working.


Applications

C51000 Phosphor Bronze is ideal for:

  • Electrical connectors & contacts

  • Springs & precision components

  • Bearings & bushings

  • Marine components

  • Industrial machinery

Key Advantages:

  • Corrosion-resistant in harsh and marine environments

  • Good electrical conductivity for reliable performance

  • Moderate strength with excellent machinability


Applicable Standards

  • ASTM B103/B103M – Plate, Sheet, Strip

  • ASTM B139/B139M – Rod, Bar, Shapes

  • SAE J461/J463 – Wrought Copper Alloys

  • AMS 4520 – Cold Rolled Bronze Strip

  • MIL-B-13501 – Bearings & Bushings