Beryllium copper is a lightweight, strong, and durable alloy that is resistant to extreme temperatures. It is often used in electrical and mechanical applications because of its excellent conductivity and machinability. However, beryllium copper can be toxic if it is not handled properly, so it is important to take precautions when working with this material.

What Kind of Metal is Beryllium Copper?

Beryllium copper is basically copper to which about 3 percent beryllium has been added, along with other components. It is known to be lighter than steel which makes it a good choice if weight is a problem or concern. It is also very strong which makes it good for use in making springs, and gears.

Any beryllium copper supplier will tell you that it is also very durable and resists corrosion and wear making it the choice for applications within harsh environments like in the marine industry or in aerospace. The metal is easy to work with using the more traditional machining techniques and can easily be shaped. However, beryllium copper can be toxic if it is not handled properly. Beryllium dust and fumes can be harmful if inhaled or ingested. It is important to take precautions when working with this material, such as wearing a respirator and gloves.

What is Normal Copper?

Regular copper is a lightweight metal which is well-known for its exceptional thermal and electrical conductivity. It is malleable, ductile, and has a characteristic pinkish-orange hue. Copper is generally used as a conductor of heat and electricity, as well as in construction and various metal alloys, including jewelry, naval equipment, coins, and devices that calculates temperature.

How Are They Different From Each Other?

While beryllium copper and regular copper may have similar names and some common properties, they are different materials that should not be used in the same way. Beryllium copper is a copper alloy that combines cobalt, iron, nickel, zinc, and, most importantly, beryllium. The addition of other metals in beryllium copper gives the alloy some unique properties.

• Their Strength and Ability To Be Formed

Regular copper is considered as being a soft metal, while beryllium copper is known for its strength. Beryllium copper has the highest rating for strength among all other copper-based alloys. This strength is what allows it to be hardened after forming which makes it a good material for making springs. It can also be shaped in many ways making it versatile.

• Their Thermal and Electrical Conductivity.

As any beryllium copper supplier knows, copper has always been known as a good conductor of heat and electricity. It has been widely used in wires and even in cookware for many decades. Although beryllium copper is just slightly less conductive than regular copper, its other advantages in addition to being a good conductor makes it the metal of choice for many.

• In Their Applications

Whenever you ask a beryllium copper supplier, he will inform you regular copper is usually used when there is a requirement for aesthetics or “looking good”. On the other hand, beryllium copper is highly valued for being hard and strong instead of simply appearance.

Being able to understand what makes beryllium copper different from regular copper is important when deciding on which material is best suited for your project. Though regular copper is a good conductor and is often chosen because of its appearance, beryllium copper rates higher in strength, as well as formability. It is very important to remember that beryllium copper, although having many great qualities, is also a hazardous metal and proper precautions are required during handling, machining, and also disposal to prevent any health risks.