When it comes to materials like Beryllium Copper vs Copper, copper is everywhere — in wires, tools, electronics, and machinery.

But did you know not all copper is the same?

Today, we’re comparing two popular types:

  • UNS C11000 – Pure Copper
  • UNS C17200 – Beryllium Copper

They both have a high amount of copper… so what’s the difference?

Let’s decode why Beryllium Copper (UNS C17200), with just a pinch of added alloy, might be the upgrade your project needs.

Chemical Composition

ElementUNS C17200 (Beryllium Copper)UNS C11000 (Pure Copper)
Copper97.0–98.0%≥ 99.90%
Beryllium1.8–2.0%—
Others (Nickel, Cobalt)Trace amounts—

Properties Comparison

PropertyBeryllium Copper (C17200)Pure Copper (C11000)
Hardness38–44 HRC (age-hardened)40–80 HV
Electrical Conductivity~20–25% IACS~100% IACS
Thermal Conductivity~105 W/m·K~390 W/m·K
Yield StrengthUp to 1380 MPa~69 MPa
Wear ResistanceExcellentPoor
Fatigue ResistanceVery HighLow
Corrosion ResistanceHighModerate
Magnetic PermeabilityNon-magneticNon-magnetic

Applications

Beryllium Copper (UNS C17200):
  • Aerospace connectors and fasteners
  • Injection mold tooling inserts
  • High-performance springs & diaphragms
  • Downhole oil & gas tools
  • Non-sparking tools for hazardous areas
  • Telecom & automotive terminals
Pure Copper (UNS C11000):
  • Electrical wiring and busbars
  • Heat exchangers
  • Plumbing tubes and fittings
  • Roofing sheets and architectural elements
  • Artistic applications & decorative uses

Technical Standards & Shapes

SpecificationBeryllium CopperPure Copper
ASTMB196, B194, B197B152, B187
Common UNSC17200C11000
TempersAged, AnnealedSoft, Hard
Forms AvailableRods, Strips, Foils, Tubes, Machined partsRods, Sheets, Wires, Pipes

Lifecycle Comparison: Beryllium Copper vs Pure Copper

Pure Copper (C11000)
  • Excellent conductor, but soft and weak under stress.
  • In harsh conditions, it wears out fast — leading to frequent replacements.
  • This causes: More downtime, Higher labour costs, Increased maintenance frequency
Beryllium Copper (C17200)
  • Engineered for strength, fatigue resistance, and durability.
  • Lasts 5–10 times longer than pure copper in critical applications.
  • Fewer failures mean: Lower replacement cost, Improved operational efficiency, Longer intervals between servicing­­­

Environmental Impact

Pure Copper:
  • Frequent replacements = more scrap
  • More energy used in recycling and remanufacturing
  • Higher carbon footprint over time
Beryllium Copper:
  • Longer lifecycle = fewer parts produced and recycled
  • Less waste, less energy, and fewer emissions
  • A smarter choice for sustainable engineering

Standards and Certifications

Beryllium Copper:
  • ASTM B196/B197 (Rod and Bar)
  • ASTM B194 (Strip)
  • AMS 4533, 4534 (Aerospace)
  • RoHS Compliant (with trace Be control)
Pure Copper:
  • ASTM B152 (Sheet)
  • ASTM B187 (Rod and Bar)
  • IEC and IS standards for conductivity and purity

Conclusion: The Smarter Copper Choice

While Pure Copper (C11000) is perfect for basic electrical and decorative uses, it falls short when strength, wear resistance, and reliability matter most.

On the other hand, Beryllium Copper (C17200) might cost more upfront — but it:

  • Lasts significantly longer
  • Performs better under stress
  • Reduces downtime and maintenance
  • Cuts waste and supports sustainability

If your goal is to build products that perform better, last longer, and support a cleaner future, then Beryllium Copper isn’t just an upgrade — it’s the smarter long-term investment.

💡 Because sometimes, the strongest solution lies in the smallest difference.

✅ Choose Beryllium Copper for longer life, fewer breakdowns, and better performance.

📩 Get in touch today for expert advice or a quick quote.

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Email: sales@domadia.com

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