Aluminum Bronze & Cupronickel: Versatile Copper-Based Alloys

Key Takeaways:

• Copper-based alloys like aluminum bronze and Cupronickel offer corrosion resistance and durability for industrial use.
• Aluminum bronze provides high strength and wear resistance, ideal for marine and chemical processing applications.
• Cupronickel excels in heat exchangers and seawater systems due to its conductivity and ductility.

Copper-based alloys play a vital role in industries where corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and conductivity are critical. Among the most widely used copper alloys are aluminum bronze and Cupronickel, each offering a distinct balance of properties suited for harsh environments and demanding applications.

Aluminum Bronze

Aluminum bronze is known for its exceptional strength, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance across a broad range of industrial conditions. These characteristics make it ideal for applications that demand both durability and performance. Common uses include:

• Marine components
• Chemical processing equipment
• Bearings, bushings, and pump parts

At Delta Centrifugal®, we manufacture several aluminum bronze grades, typically to ASTM B271 standards. Commonly poured alloys include C95200, C95300, C95400, C95500 & C95800.  They are valued for their toughness and performance in high-load environments.  Casting in C95300, C95400, C95410 and C95500 may be supplied in the heat treated condition to obtain higher mechanical properties.  For better corrosion resistance in seawater applications, castings in Copper Alloy C95800 can be given a temper anneal heat treatment. 

Cupronickel

Cupronickel offers a unique combination of corrosion resistance and ductility. While not as strong as aluminum bronze, it provides superior thermal and electrical conductivity — making it highly effective in applications where heat transfer and seawater resistance are essential. Key applications include:

• Heat exchangers and condensers
• Seawater piping systems
• Marine shaft sleeves

Our most frequently poured Cupronickel alloys are C96200, (90/10 CuNi), & C96400 (70/30 CuNi) which delivers reliable performance in saltwater and corrosive environments. Copper-based alloys are by far the most widely used alloy for Navy propulsion shaft sleeves.  Delta Centrifugal® one of two foundries in the country approved to manufacture these sleeves.

Precision Casting in Copper-Based Alloys

Delta Centrifugal® produces high-quality copper-based alloys using precision centrifugal casting methods. Whether you’re designing for strength, conductivity, or long-term corrosion resistance, our team has the material expertise and casting capabilities to support your project.

Contact us today at sales@deltacentrifugal.com to learn more or request a quote tailored to your specifications.