C94500 is a copper alloy categorized as a high-lead brass. It's known for its exceptional machinability
and good bearing properties, but due to the lead content, its applications are limited.
Table: Key Properties of C94500
| Property |
Description |
| Chemical Composition |
- Primarily Copper (Cu): Minimum 74% <br> - Lead (Pb): Up to 20% <br> - Iron (Fe):
Up to 0.15% <br> - Other (Sn, Ni, etc.): Trace amounts
|
| Mechanical Properties |
- Excellent machinability due to high lead content <br> - Good for low-load, high-speed
bearings <br> - Low strength and fair corrosion resistance
|
| Common Brands (By Country) |
- Information on specific brands might be limited due to regulations on lead usage. |
Common Questions and Answers:
What are the primary applications of C94500?
Due to environmental and health concerns, the use of C94500 is declining. However, some traditional
applications include:
Low-speed bearings: In some non-critical applications with minimal loads, C94500 might be
used for bearings due to its machinability.
Bushings: Similar to bearings, C94500 can be used for bushings in low-load applications.
Important Note: Due to regulations on lead usage, finding readily available C94500 or its
equivalents might be challenging. It's advisable to explore alternative copper alloys with lower lead
content for most applications.
What are the drawbacks of using C94500?
The main drawbacks of C94500 are:
High lead content: Lead is a health hazard during machining and can limit applications due
to environmental regulations.
Low strength and wear resistance: Compared to other copper alloys, C94500 offers lower
strength and wear resistance, making it unsuitable for demanding applications.
Limited corrosion resistance: C94500 is not suitable for environments with high corrosion
potential.
Are there any alternatives to C94500?
Several alternative copper alloys offer better overall properties and less lead content. Depending on the
specific application requirements, some options include:
C94400: A lower-lead alternative with good machinability for bushings.
C93700: A lead-free alternative with good machinability and wear resistance for bearings.
Aluminum bronzes (e.g., C95400): Offer good strength, wear resistance, and machinability without lead.
Important Note: Always consult with a material engineer or supplier to identify the most
suitable copper alloy for your specific application considering factors like strength, wear resistance,
corrosion resistance, and regulatory compliance.
