CuNi1 NC003 Copper Nickel Alloy With Moderate Strength In Seawater Environments

Product Specification

CuNi1 NC003 Copper Nickel Alloy With Moderate Strength In Seawater Environments

CuNi1 NC003 Copper-Nickel Alloy Wire is a copper-nickel alloy with approximately 1% nickel and the remainder being copper, designed for use in a variety of marine, corrosive, and electrical applications. The alloy combines the beneficial properties of both copper and nickel, offering good corrosion resistance, improved strength, and excellent thermal and electrical conductivity. Due to its composition, CuNi1 NC003 is well-suited for environments where both durability and resistance to corrosion are essential. CuNi1 NC003 Copper-Nickel Alloy Wire is a versatile alloy with 1% nickel and the remainder copper, ideal for marine and electrical applications. Its outstanding corrosion resistance, good electrical and thermal conductivity, and moderate strength make it particularly suitable for use in seawater environments, marine hardware, heat exchangers, and electrical components. It offers excellent performance in challenging environments, though it may not have the same strength or conductivity as alloys with higher nickel content.

Main technical data

Technical data table

• Tolerance of ohm/m: ±5%
• Round wire: range from 0.04mm (0.0016″) to 12mm (0.4724″)
• Ribbon: range from 0.05mm (0.002″) to 6mm (0.2362″), Max ratio width : thickness = 10:1

Key Features of CuNi1:

• Composition:
• Copper (Cu): ~99% (the primary component, offering excellent electrical and thermal conductivity).
• Nickel (Ni): ~1% (provides increased strength and corrosion resistance, especially in marine environments and in contact with seawater).
• Other Elements: Small quantities of iron, manganese, and silicon may be present to improve machinability, strength, and resistance to oxidation.
• Corrosion Resistance:
• Excellent Marine Corrosion Resistance: The addition of 1% nickel greatly enhances the alloy's resistance to seawater corrosion, making it a popular choice for marine and offshore applications, including shipbuilding and marine engineering.
• General Corrosion Resistance: Performs well in corrosive environments, including contact with brine, alkaline solutions, and certain chemicals. The alloy resists the formation of pits and crevices, which are common in high-moisture environments.
• Stress Corrosion Cracking Resistance: Good resistance to stress corrosion cracking (SCC), particularly in environments prone to chloride-induced stress corrosion.
• Electrical and Thermal Conductivity:
• Good Electrical Conductivity: As a copper-based alloy, CuNi1 NC003 maintains high electrical conductivity making it useful in electrical cables, wires, and electronic components.
• Thermal Conductivity: Offers good thermal conductivity, though it is slightly lower than pure copper, making it suitable for heat transfer applications, including heat exchangers and radiators.
• Mechanical Properties:
• Strength and Ductility: CuNi1 NC003 offers moderate strength while retaining good ductility, allowing it to be formed into wires, tubes, strips, and sheets without loss of performance.
• Tensile Strength: The alloy provides good tensile strength for use in applications requiring mechanical durability, including wires for marine cables or heat exchanger tubes.
• Formability: Excellent formability allows the alloy to be easily processed into a variety of shapes, including wires, coils, and rods.
• Weldability and Fabrication:
• Weldability: CuNi1 NC003 is weldable using conventional methods, including TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) and MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding, although care must be taken to avoid oxidation during high-heat welding processes.
• Machinability: The alloy has good machinability, although it is not as easy to machine as pure copper. Additional machining tools and lubricants may be necessary for more complex fabrication processes.

Applications of CuNi1:

• Marine and Offshore: CuNi1 NC003 is extensively used in marine engineering, shipbuilding, and offshore oil rigs, where corrosion resistance in seawater is critical. Common applications include seawater pipes, cooling systems, heat exchangers, and marine hardware.
• Electrical and Electronics: Due to its excellent electrical conductivity, it is used in electrical cables, resistors, connectors, and electronic components that need to function in challenging environments.
• Heat Transfer Systems: The alloy is also used in heat exchangers, condensers, and radiators, where thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance are important for long-lasting performance.

Applications in High-Temperature Environments:

• The alloy is suitable for use in environments where there are moderate temperature fluctuations and exposure to high humidity or saltwater, such as marine engines, fuel systems, and steam generators.

Advantages of CuNi1 NC003 Copper-Nickel Alloy Wire:

• Marine Suitability: Its high resistance to seawater corrosion makes it a preferred material for marine applications, including heat exchangers, marine cables, and offshore platforms.
• Good Strength and Ductility: Offers moderate strength and excellent ductility, making it versatile for various mechanical applications.
• Electrical and Thermal Conductivity: Retains good electrical conductivity and thermal conductivity, allowing its use in electrical wiring and heat transfer applications.
• Corrosion Resistance: Resistant to stress corrosion cracking, pitting, and general corrosion, ensuring longevity in harsh, corrosive environments.