C87800 is a copper alloy belonging to the leaded silicon brass family. It's known for its good
combination of strength, wear resistance, and excellent corrosion resistance, making it suitable for various
industrial applications exposed to harsh environments. However, similar to other leaded alloys, its use
might be limited due to environmental and health concerns.
Table: Key Properties of C87800
| Property |
Description |
| Chemical Composition |
- Primarily Copper (Cu): 79-83% <br> - Silicon (Si): 3-4% <br> - Lead (Pb): Up to 7%
<br> - Zinc (Zn): Up to 1% <br> - Other (Fe, etc.): Trace amounts
|
| Mechanical Properties |
- Good tensile and yield strength <br> - Good wear resistance <br> - Excellent
machinability due to lead content <br> - Fair machinability
|
| Common Brands (By Country) |
- Europe: CuSi3Pb7Zn1 [Europe] <br> - US: Leaded Silicon Brass |
Important Note: Due to the high lead content, regulations and availability of C87800 might
be limited. Consult with suppliers regarding lead content compliance for your specific application.
Common Questions and Answers:
What are the typical applications of C87800?
C87800 finds use in various industries due to its well-rounded properties, particularly in environments with
corrosion concerns:
Marine applications: Due to its excellent corrosion resistance in saltwater environments,
C87800 is used for valves, fittings, and other marine hardware.
Heat exchangers: C87800 can be suitable for heat exchangers operating in corrosive
environments.
Chemical processing equipment: Tanks, pipes, and other components exposed to chemicals can
benefit from C87800's corrosion resistance.
What are the limitations of using C87800?
The main limitations of C87800 are:
High lead content: Lead is a health hazard during machining and limits applications in some
industries due to environmental regulations. Due to the high lead content, regulations and availability
might be limited.
Not ideal for high temperatures: The mechanical properties of C87800 can diminish at
elevated temperatures.
Are there lead-free alternatives to C87800?
Lead-free alternatives can be considered depending on the specific application requirements and the severity
of the corrosive environment. Here are some options:
C85200: A silicon bronze with good corrosion resistance but lower strength compared to
C87800.
Nickel-aluminum bronzes: Offer excellent corrosion resistance and good strength without
lead. However, they might be more expensive than C87800.
Important Note: Regulations on lead usage can influence the availability of C87800. Lead
content should also be a factor when choosing a material. 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, machinability, lead content (regulations), and cost.
