Beryllium copper

It has many specialized applications in tools for hazardous environments, musical instruments, precision measurement devices, bullets, and some uses in the field of aerospace.

Beryllium copper attains the greatest strength (up to 1,400 MPa (200,000 psi)) of any copper-based alloy.

It will withstand sulphide or chloride stress corrosion cracking and will resist the effects of carbon dioxide and hydrogen embrittlement.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) lists beryllium as a Group 1 human carcinogen.

Beryllium copper is non-sparking yet physically tough and nonmagnetic, fulfilling the requirements of ATEX directive for Zones 0, 1, and 2.

Beryllium copper screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, cold chisels, knives, and hammers are available for environments with explosive hazards, such as oil rigs, coal mines, and grain elevators.

The tempered wire is most useful where the properties of beryllium copper are desired, but the age-hardening of finished parts is not practical.

C17510 and C17500 beryllium copper alloys are age-hardenable and provide good electrical conductivity, physical properties, and wear-resistance.

The thermal conductivity of these alloys is greater than that of aluminum and slightly less than that of pure copper; they are often used as electrical contacts.