CuBe2 vs CuZn36Pb3: 33% composition overlap. Significantly different materials serving different application areas.
CuBe2 vs CuZn36Pb3
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
CuBe2
CW101C
THE highest-strength copper alloy — UTS up to 1400 MPa (200 ksi), approaching steel strength with copper's conductivity (22% IACS aged). Age-hardenable: solution treat 780-800°C, age 315-340°C → HRC 38-45. Non-sparking, non-magnetic. Trade names: Alloy 25 (Materion), BeCu25 (NGK). CAUTION: Be dust is carcinogenic — machining requires extraction. Used for non-sparking tools, mold inserts, springs, connectors, and resistance welding electrodes.
CuZn36Pb3
CW603N
Free-cutting leaded brass — the benchmark for non-ferrous machinability (rated 100%). Lead particles act as chip breakers for excellent surface finish. Used for screw machine parts, fittings, valves, watch components, precision mechanics, and electrical connectors. Old DIN number 2.0375.
| CuBe2 | CuZn36Pb3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | CW101C | CW603N |
| Category | Copper & Brass | Copper & Brass |
| Standard | EN 12163 | EN 12164 |
Chemical composition (wt%)
| Element | CuBe2 | CuZn36Pb3 | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ni | 0–0.3% | 0–0.3% | OK |
| Cu | — | 60–63% | — |
| Al | — | 0–0.05% | — |
| Be | 1.8–2.1% | — | — |
Mechanical properties
| Property | CuBe2 | CuZn36Pb3 | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| tensile_strength | 440–540 | ≥ 340 | MPa |
| elongation | 25–45 | ≥ 10 | % |
| hardness_hrc | 38–45 | — | HRC |
Compatibility Assessment
CuBe2 and CuZn36Pb3 have significantly different compositions (33% overlap). These materials are not interchangeable and serve different application areas.
Automated assessment based on composition analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CuBe2 the same as CuZn36Pb3?
CuBe2 and CuZn36Pb3 have a 33% composition overlap. They are generally not directly interchangeable.
Can I replace CuBe2 with CuZn36Pb3?
Generally not recommended. The compositions differ significantly (33% overlap). These materials have different alloying concepts and are intended for different applications.
What is the difference between CuBe2 and CuZn36Pb3?
The main differences are in the following elements: overall alloying content. CuBe2 is a Copper & Brass grade, while CuZn36Pb3 is a Copper & Brass grade.
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Data provided for reference only. Always verify against the applicable specification for critical applications.
All data is for reference only. Equivalents indicate similarity, not identity. Always verify against the applicable specification for safety-critical applications. materialref.com accepts no liability for decisions based on this data.