What Does
Cupaloy Mean?
Cupaloy is a high-conductivity copper alloy which has a very high corrosion resistance.
The alloy, which contains 99.4% copper, 0.5% chromium and 0.1% silver, is non-ferrous, age hardenable and has a considerable hardness. The alloy has a lower electrical conductivity and higher mechanical properties than pure copper and is able to maintain its mechanical strength even at high temperatures.
Corrosionpedia Explains Cupaloy
Copper (and its alloys) is a common engineering material used for a wide range of applications. The properties that make it suitable are its high electrical conductivity, high mechanical strength, high corrosion resistance, as well as good machinability and ductility. These properties can be enhanced further by varying the manufacturing processes and the alloy composition.
The chromium impurities in cupaloy increase its mechanical strength, age hardening properties and corrosion resistance. The increase in the corrosion resistance results from a protective film that is formed on the material's surface.
The high corrosive resistance of cupaloy makes it suitable for use in most corrosive atmospheres commonly found in industrial, rural and marine environments. The alloy is also suitable for use in soil since it does not erode like other iron-based metals. When in soil, an electrolytic reaction occurs and the alloy acts as an anode, causing it to collect metal deposits from the soil.