W-Cu Series

Tungsten-Copper (W-Cu) alloys have a balance of high thermal conductivity, wear resistance, and electrical conductivity.

Get a Quote

Tungsten-copper W-Cu machined parts on dark workshop table

500-800 MPa

Ultimate Tensile Strength
300-600 MPa

Yield Strength
200-320 GPa

Young's Modulus(Elasticity)
1-10 %

Elongation at Break

At a Glance

Material Type
Metal
Material Name
W-Cu Series (ASTM)
Process Compatibility
CNC Milling, CNC Turning

Properties Table of W-Cu Series (ASTM)

Properties

Ultimate Tensile Strength 500-800 MPa
Yield Strength 300-600 MPa
Young's Modulus(Elasticity) 200-320 GPa
Elongation at Break 1-10%
Physical Properties
Corrosion Resistance Generally good, but can be affected by Cu content and environment
Magnetism Typically non-magnetic
UV Resistance High UV resistance
Weldability Can be challenging due to the mismatch in properties; specializen welding methods may be required
Thermal Properties
Maximum Service Temperature Up to 500°C(depending on the Cu content)
Thermal Expansion Coefficient 6-8 x 10^-6/°C
Thermal Conductivity 150-200 W/(m·K)(depending on composition)
Electrical Properties
Electrical Resistivity 5-15 μΩ·cm(depending on composition)
ESD Safety Good electrical conductivity; can dissipate static charges effectively

Applications of W-Cu Series (ASTM)

Aerospace components
Electronic packaging
Microwave devices
Power electronics
Medical imaging equipment
Microelectronics
Thermal management systems
Semiconductor manufacturing

Advantages of W-Cu Series (ASTM)

High thermal conductivity
Low thermal expansion
Excellent electrical conductivity
Good machinability
High strength at elevated temperatures
Superior arc erosion resistance
Effective for electrical and electronic applications

Raw Stock

CNC Machined

Finished Parts

W Cu Series Astm — Machining Notes

W-Cu Series in CNC Machi
is W-Cu Series (ASTM)?

W-Cu Series in CNC Machining

Tungsten-Copper (W-Cu) alloys have a balance of high thermal conductivity, wear resistance, and electrical conductivity.

Comprising tungsten as the primary component and copper as the secondary, typical compositions range from 70% W / 30% Cu to 90% W / 10% Cu.These alloys are commonly used in electronic packaging, aerospace components, and CNC-machined parts. When machining W-Cu, careful considerations are required.

We use proper tooling, such as carbide or PCD inserts, and cutting fluids to manage heat. We optimize machining parameters, and post-machining processes like grinding may be applied for specific surface finishes. Precision and quality control are important; DEK has experienced machinists familiar with W-Cu alloys’ unique characteristics. Additionally, we observe safety precautions when machining due to potential health hazards associated with tungsten dust and fumes during machining.

Get A Quote
What is W-Cu Series (ASTM)?

The Tungsten (W)–Copper (Cu) series refers to composite materials that combine tungsten and copper. Tungsten is known for its high melting point, great thermal and electrical conductivity, and strong mechanical properties, while copper has high thermal and electrical conductivity. By combining these materials, engineers create composites with unique properties suitable for applications needing a mix of high thermal and electrical conductivity along with mechanical strength.

Common uses include electronic packaging, aerospace components like rocket nozzles, and defense applications. Tungsten–Copper alloys find a place in high-temperature environments and are used for resistance welding electrodes, where a balance of strength and conductivity is important. The specific composition varies based on the desired properties for different applications, allowing customization for optimal performance.

Get A Quote

FAQ

Does W-Cu Series rust?

No, W-Cu Series (Tungsten Copper) does not rust. Tungsten is a corrosion-resistant metal, and when combined with copper in the W-Cu Series, it retains its corrosion resistance.

Can you forge W-Cu Series?

While tungsten's high melting point makes traditional forging challenging, W-Cu Series materials are typically produced through powder metallurgy methods, such as sintering. This process involves compacting and heating the powder mixture to create a solid, dense material. While not forged in the traditional sense, W-Cu Series materials can be shaped and formed through various machining processes, including CNC machining, to achieve the desired final product.

Can you anneal W-Cu Series?

Annealing is a heat treatment process commonly used to relieve stress and improve the material's mechanical properties. However, the applicability of annealing to W-Cu Series depends on the specific composition and manufacturing process. Tungsten has a high melting point, and copper has a lower melting point, which can complicate traditional annealing processes. Specialized heat treatment methods tailored to the W-Cu Series composition may be used to achieve desired properties without compromising the integrity of the material.