Tungsten Copper Alloys | W-Cu Rod, Bar, Block, Tube

Tungsten Copper Alloy: An Overview

Tungsten copper alloy stands as a remarkable composite material, combining the exceptional properties of tungsten and copper to create a high-performance alloy with a wide range of industrial applications. Known for its unique combination of strength, thermal conductivity, and wear resistance, tungsten copper alloy is favored in sectors where demanding conditions and precision engineering are essential.

Tungsten Copper Alloy Properties

Tungsten copper alloy is primarily composed of tungsten (W) and copper (Cu), often with tungsten content ranging from 50% to 90%, depending on the desired properties.

Material	Composition (wt%)	Density (g/cm3)	Hardness (HRB)	Conductivity (% IACS)	Class	RWMA
W50Cu50	W 50, Cu bal.	11.85	65	55
W45Cu55	W 55, Cu bal.	12.30	70	50	10	10.74450
W70Cu30	W 70, Cu bal.	13.85	85	45
W75Cu25	W 75, Cu bal.	14.50	90	40	11	11.74400
W80Cu20	W 80, Cu bal.	15.15	98	34	12	12.74350
W85Cu15	W 85, Cu bal.	15.90	240 HB	30
W90Cu10	W 90, Cu bal.	16.75	260 HB	27

The tungsten copper alloy is customized based on the application. Even if the content is the same, the indicators may be different. For example, the application of spark discharge electrodes requires electrode materials to be highly conductive and internally uniform. The resistance welding electrodes should be highly conductive and hard to extend service life. The tungsten-copper counterweight device needs to strictly control the specific gravity, and the tungsten-copper contact should have excellent resistance to arc burning damage.

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Manufacturing Process of WCu alloy

The preparation methods of tungsten copper alloy are divided into two categories: traditional preparation methods and modern preparation methods. Traditional preparation methods mainly include high-temperature liquid phase sintering, infiltration, hot press sintering and activation sintering. With the development and research of new technologies and new processes, some new modern preparation methods have also emerged, such as discharge plasma sintering, 3D printing, mechanical alloying, etc.

Powder Preparation

Mixing Alloy

Compaction

Sintering

Infiltration

Heat Treatment

Machining and Processing

Quality Assurance

Powder Preparation: The first step involves preparing tungsten and copper powders. The powders must meet specific purity and particle size requirements. High-quality raw materials contribute to the alloy's final properties.

Mixing Alloy: Tungsten and copper powders are carefully blended in precise proportions to achieve the desired alloy composition. The blending process is crucial for uniform distribution of the powders.

Compaction: The blended powder mixture is subjected to compaction, where it is pressed into a green compact or a preform with the desired shape. Compaction is typically done using hydraulic presses to achieve the necessary density.

Sintering: Sintering is a critical step in the manufacturing process. The green compact is heated to 1300 ℃ - 1500 ℃ in a controlled atmosphere, often in a vacuum or hydrogen environment. During sintering, the tungsten and copper powders react and bond, forming a solid mass.

Infiltration: In some cases, especially for higher copper content in the alloy, an infiltration step may be introduced. This involves infiltrating the porous sintered tungsten structure with molten copper. This step enhances the density and homogeneity of the alloy.

Heat Treatment: Heat treatment may be applied to optimize the microstructure and properties of the WCu alloy. Controlled heating and cooling processes can relieve stresses and enhance the mechanical characteristics.

Machining and Processing: The sintered and heat-treated WCu alloy is machined to achieve the final dimensions and surface finish. Precision machining is crucial, especially for applications where tight tolerances are required.

Quality Assurance: The finished WCu alloy undergoes a final inspection, which may include dimensional checks, density measurements, and various tests to verify properties such as hardness, thermal conductivity, and electrical conductivity.

WCu Alloy Products Display

We can produce cylindrical, square and triangular tungsten copper alloys, and the size can be customized according to your requirements.

We can process according to the drawings. The main application areas are resistance spot welding electrodes, electrical contacts, packaging heat sinks, etc.

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The Applications of WCu Alloy

➔ Spark discharge electrode

➔ High conductivity, uniform interior without holes

➔ Resistance welding electrode

➔ High strength and can withstand thermal shock

➔ Electrical contacts

➔ Burning resistance

➔ Electronic packaging heat sink

➔ High thermal conductivity, easy to electroplating

➔ Counterweight

➔ Precise control of proportion

Comparing Tungsten Copper Alloys with Tungsten & Cooper

Tungsten Copper Alloy vs. Pure Tungsten:

	Advantages	Applications
WCu	Higher thermal conductivity due to the presence of copper. Improved ductility and machinability. Enhanced resistance to thermal shock.	Heat sinks, electrical contacts, and electronic components.
W	Higher melting point. Excellent resistance to high temperatures.	Aerospace components, high-temperature furnaces.

Tungsten Copper Alloy vs. Copper Alloys:

	Advantages	Applications
WCu	Higher strength and wear resistance. Better performance in high-temperature environments.	Electrical contacts, EDM electrodes, aerospace components.
Cu Alloys	Higher electrical conductivity. More cost-effective for some applications.	Electrical wiring, plumbing components.

FAQs About Tungsten Copper Alloys

What is Tungsten Copper Alloy?

Tungsten Copper (WCu) alloy is a composite material consisting of tungsten (W) and copper (Cu). It combines the high melting point and strength of tungsten with the excellent thermal conductivity of copper, making it suitable for various applications.
What Are the Key Properties of Tungsten Copper Alloys?

Tungsten Copper alloys exhibit high thermal conductivity, exceptional strength, wear resistance, and thermal stability. They are known for their ability to withstand high temperatures and maintain mechanical integrity.
What Sets Tungsten Copper Alloys Apart from Other Materials?

Tungsten Copper alloys offer a unique combination of high thermal conductivity, strength, and wear resistance. This makes them stand out in applications where these properties are crucial, such as in electronic components and aerospace.
Can Tungsten Copper Alloys be Customized?

Yes, tungsten copper alloys can be customized to meet specific requirements. Customization may involve adjusting the tungsten-to-copper ratio, applying coatings, or incorporating additional treatments to tailor the alloy for particular applications.
How Do Tungsten Copper Alloys Compare to Pure Tungsten or copper?

Tungsten Copper alloys offer improved thermal conductivity and machinability compared to pure tungsten. Compared to copper, they provide higher strength and better performance in high-temperature environments.
How to purchase tungsten copper alloy from AEM Metal?

Just send us inquiries, our team will prepare an official quote for you. If you are satisfied with our products and quotes, you can send us PO or we will send you PI for purchasing.
What are the payment methods?

Bank Wire Transfer: Direct bank transfers are a secure and widely used method. Details for wire transfers will be provided on the invoice.

PayPal: For added flexibility, PayPal payments are often accepted. This option is ideal for those who prefer online payment gateways.

Letter of Credit (L/C): In certain cases, we may accept payment through a letter of credit, offering a secure method for international transactions.
What Industries Use Tungsten Copper Alloys?

Tungsten Copper alloys find applications in aerospace, electronics, medical devices, defense, and high-performance engineering. They are utilized in components requiring a combination of thermal management, strength, and durability.
What Applications Benefit from Tungsten Copper Alloys?

Tungsten Copper alloys are used in electronic components (heat sinks, electrodes), aerospace components (heat exchangers, rocket nozzles), medical devices (X-ray tubes, radiation shielding), and various high-temperature environments.
Are Tungsten Copper Alloys Resistant to Wear?

Yes, tungsten copper alloys exhibit excellent wear resistance, making them suitable for applications involving friction, abrasion, and high-stress conditions. This property is advantageous in tooling and machining applications.
How Do Tungsten Copper Alloys Contribute to Thermal Management?

Tungsten Copper alloys, with their high thermal conductivity, efficiently dissipate heat. This property is essential in applications where effective thermal management is critical, such as in electronic devices and high-performance components.
Can Tungsten Copper Alloys be Welded?

Welding tungsten copper alloys can be challenging due to tungsten's high melting point. Specialized welding techniques, such as tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding, may be employed to join tungsten copper alloy components.
What are the shipping methods?

We use UPS or DHL or FedEx express for most of countries. Please let us know if you have their account number. We can ship the items out by using your account number. We use IPS express for Iran, Iraq and UAE.

We will by sea or air if the weight or volume is large.

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Tungsten Copper Alloy