Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 NAB C63000
Copper-rich alloy of Cu with Al, Ni and Fe (wrought composition in story.recipe)
Also known as UNS C63000, EN name CW307G, AMS 4640, ASTM B150
Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 (UNS C63000, AMS 4640) is a copper alloy with 9.0 to 11.0 % aluminium, 4.0 to 5.5 % nickel and 2.0 to 4.0 % iron.
Evidence level
2 of 5
Lab-measured
- 0Predicted only. No one has made it, or no measurement exists.
- 1Calculated. Only calculated or predicted values from sources.
- 2Lab-measured. Measured properties with their conditions stated.
- 3Space-relevant tests. Measured in conditions relevant to space, such as vacuum or atomic oxygen.
- 4Ground-qualified. Qualified for an application on the ground.
- 5Flown or field-proven. Flight or field results exist.
Strength
760 MPa minimum (AMS 4640)
Yield
470 MPa minimum at 0.5 % extension
Typical strength
772 MPa typical (HR50 rod, 3 in)
Density
7.58 g/cm3 at 20 °C
Electrical conduction
7 %IACS at 68 °F
Recipe, share of the weight
- Cu remainder (Cu includes Ag)Copper
- Al 9 to 11%Aluminium
- Ni 4 to 5.5%Nickel
- Fe 2 to 4%Iron
Best for
Strong, tough copper alloy for aerospace landing gear, bearings and seawater hardware where wear and corrosion resistance matter
Weakest at
Electrical conduction: 7 %IACS at 68 °F, so it is a poor conductor compared with pure copper
Risk at a glance
- People Moderate. Dust and fume: cancer and allergy warnings
- If it fails High. Crevice corrosion at biofouled and stressed areas
- Corrosion Moderate. In seawater tests, welded nickel aluminium bronze lost its beta-prime phase at the weld heat-affected zone and corroded in crevices under biofouling and stress.
Quick facts: NAB C63000
| Property | Value | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 7.58 g/cm³ | 1 sourced value |
| Yield strength | 427 to 470 MPa | 3 sourced values across conditions |
| Tensile strength | 760 to 772 MPa | 3 sourced values across conditions |
| Young's modulus | 121 GPa | 1 sourced value |
| Thermal conductivity | 22.6 Btu·ft/(hr·ft2·F) | 1 sourced value |
| Melting point | 1,035 to 1,054 °C | 2 sourced values across conditions |
| Specific heat | 0.09 Btu/(lb·F) | 1 sourced value |
What is the density of Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 (NAB C63000)?
Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 (NAB C63000) has a density of 7.58 g/cm³. The source and test conditions are listed in the properties table on this page.
What is the thermal conductivity of Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 (NAB C63000)?
Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 (NAB C63000) has a thermal conductivity of 22.6 Btu·ft/(hr·ft2·F). The source and test conditions are listed in the properties table on this page.
What is the melting point of Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 (NAB C63000)?
Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 (NAB C63000) has a melting point of 1,035 to 1,054 °C. The range covers 2 sourced values across the tempers, forms and test conditions the sources report; room-temperature values are used where a source states a temperature.
What is the yield strength of Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 (NAB C63000)?
Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 (NAB C63000) has a yield strength of 427 to 470 MPa. The range covers 3 sourced values across the tempers, forms and test conditions the sources report; room-temperature values are used where a source states a temperature.
What is the tensile strength of Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 (NAB C63000)?
Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 (NAB C63000) has a tensile strength of 760 to 772 MPa. The range covers 3 sourced values across the tempers, forms and test conditions the sources report; room-temperature values are used where a source states a temperature.
What are the other names and codes for Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 (NAB C63000)?
Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 (NAB C63000) is also written as UNS C63000, EN name CW307G, AMS 4640, ASTM B150. Each code is printed in the source listed beside it in the designations table.
What is Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 (NAB C63000) used for?
Uses recorded in the sources include Aerospace landing gear; Bearings, bushings, gears, cams and valve seats; Ship propellers, marine bolts and nuts.
Why it exists
Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 is a copper alloy designed for strength, toughness and wear resistance. Smith Metal calls it the most commonly used grade of nickel aluminium bronze in America and says it was developed to the AMS4640 aerospace specification. It combines high strength with toughness and keeps much of its strength at elevated temperatures, according to the datasheet. Its mechanical properties are specified in AMS 4640, which sets minimum values that the profile records as lower bounds.
Where it's used
Aerospace landing gear
Smith Metal lists aerospace landing gear first among the typical applications of C63000, and says the grade was developed to the AMS4640 aerospace specification.
Bearings, bushings and gears
Concast lists bearings, bushings, cams, gears, valve seats and hydraulic bushings for earth-moving equipment among the typical industrial uses of AMS 4640-C63000.
Marine propellers and fasteners
Concast lists ship propellers, bolts and nuts among the marine uses of AMS 4640-C63000, and Smith Metal lists marine fasteners among its typical applications.
Recipe
Copper-rich alloy of Cu with Al, Ni and Fe (wrought composition in story.recipe)
Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 is a copper-rich alloy in which aluminium, nickel and iron are the main added elements. Manganese, silicon, tin and zinc are minor elements, each limited by the composition table. Wrought rod and bar are supplied in the HR50 (drawn and stress relieved) or TQ50 (temper annealed) temper under AMS 4640.
| Ingredient | Share of the weight | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Copper Cu | remainder (Cu includes Ag) | The matrix metal that makes up most of the alloy. |
| Aluminium Al | 9 to 11% | The main alloying metal in aluminium bronze, as Concast states. |
| Nickel Ni | 4 to 5.5% | Alloying element in the AMS 4640 composition; the Ni value includes Co. |
| Iron Fe | 2 to 4% | Alloying element named by Concast as one often added to aluminium bronze. |
Weight shares are as printed in the sources.
What it can do
Strength
760 MPa minimum (AMS 4640)
measured
The AMS 4640 specification requires a minimum tensile strength of 760 MPa for rounds up to 1 in in the HR50 or TQ50 temper.
Yield
470 MPa minimum at 0.5 % extension
measured
The same specification requires a minimum yield strength of 470 MPa at 0.5 % extension under load, for the same sizes.
Typical strength
772 MPa typical (HR50 rod, 3 in)
measured
A National Bronze typical value for an HR50 rod of 3 in (76 mm) is 772 MPa tensile strength and 427 MPa yield strength at 0.5 % extension.
Density
7.58 g/cm3 at 20 °C
measured
The Concast physical-properties table gives a density of 7.58 g/cm3 at 20 °C.
Electrical conduction
7 %IACS at 68 °F
measured
National Bronze gives an electrical conductivity of 7 %IACS at 68 °F, so the alloy is a poor conductor compared with pure copper.
How it compares
C63000 is a stronger, harder copper alloy than the soft copper profiled in this collection, but it conducts electricity far less well. The gap comes from the aluminium and nickel dissolved in the copper matrix. The datasheet says that C63000 keeps much of its strength at elevated temperatures, and the specification sets its minimum strength for rounds up to 1 in. The table compares C63000 with other profiled metals on density, tensile strength and electrical conductivity.
The same measurements for each material, so you can compare them. Each row names the key condition under the value; the full conditions and methods are in the numbered notes under Technical details. Other materials are shown beside it; each was measured under its own conditions, so open its page before comparing closely. Compare every grade in the family.
| Measurement | NAB C63000 | Cu | C360 | C954 | C630 | BeCu | C510 | C260 | Cu-Ag | CuCrZr | CuNi 70/30 | C21000 | CW614N | C75200 | C521 | C655 | Cu-Te | Sn/Cu |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thermal behavior and safety | ||||||||||||||||||
| Melting point, liquidus | 1054 °C2 | 1083 °C | 954 °C | 1027 °C | 1060 °C | 870 °C | 954 to 1049 °C | 916 °C | no data | 1081 °C | 1170 to 1240 °C | 954 °C | 875 to 890 °C | 1060 to 1110 °C | 882 to 1027 °C | 971 to 1027 °C | 1080 °C | 231.9 °C |
| Melting point, solidus | 1035 °C3 | 1083 °C | 954 °C | 1027 °C | 1060 °C | 870 °C | 954 to 1049 °C | 916 °C | no data | 1081 °C | 1170 to 1240 °C | 954 °C | 875 to 890 °C | 1060 to 1110 °C | 882 to 1027 °C | 971 to 1027 °C | 1080 °C | 231.9 °C |
| Thermal conductivity, C63000 (National Bronze)Value printed in a supplier datasheet | 22.6 Btu·ft/(hr·ft2·F) | 391 W/(m·K) | 116 W/(m·K) | 58.7 W/(m·K) | 63 W/(m·K) | 105 W/(m·K) | 84 W/(m·K) | 121.2 W/(m·K) | no data | 323 W/(m·K) | 29 W/(m·K) | 234 W/(m·K) | 123 W/(m·K) | 32 W/(m·K) | 67 W/(m·K) | 36.3 W/(m.K) | 355 W/(m·K) | 66.6 W/(m·K) |
| Specific heat capacity, C63000 (National Bronze)Value printed in a supplier datasheet | 0.09 Btu/(lb·F) | 0.394 kJ/(kg·K) | no data | 419 J/(kg·K) | 452 J/(kg·K) | no data | 0.38 J/(g·°C) | 377.1 J/(kg·K) | no data | 0.383 kJ/(kg·K) | 377 J/(kg·K) | 0.38 J/(g·K) | 380 J/(kg·K) | 380 J/(kg·K) | 0.377 kJ/(kg·K) | 376.8 J/(kg.K) | 385.5 J/(kg·K) | no data |
| Physical and electrical | ||||||||||||||||||
| Density, C63000 (Concast physical-properties table) | 7.58 g/cm³1 | 8.9 g/cm³ | 8.5 g/cm³ | 7.45 g/cm³ | 7.58 g/cm³ | 8.36 g/cm³ | 8.86 g/cm³ | 8.53 g/cm³ | no data | 8.94 g/cm³ | 8.94 g/cm³ | 8.86 g/cm³ | 8.46 g/cm³ | 8.7 g/cm³ | 8.79 g/cm³ | 8.53 g/cm³ | 8.94 g/cm³ | 7.28 g/cm³ |
| Electrical conductivity, C63000 (National Bronze)Value printed in a supplier datasheet | 7 %IACS4 | 58 MS/m | 26 %IACS | 13 %IACS | 7 %IACS | 25 to 30 %IACS | 15 %IACS | 28 %IACS | > 58 MS/m | > 46.4 MS/m | no data | 56 %IACS | 25 %IACS | 6 %IACS | 13 %IACS | 7 %IACS | 93 %IACS | 58 MS/m |
| Electrical conductivity, metric (Concast physical-properties table) | 0.041 MegaSiemens/cm5 | 58 MS/m | 26 %IACS | 13 %IACS | 7 %IACS | 25 to 30 %IACS | 15 %IACS | 28 %IACS | > 58 MS/m | > 46.4 MS/m | no data | 56 %IACS | 25 %IACS | 6 %IACS | 13 %IACS | 7 %IACS | 93 %IACS | 58 MS/m |
| Other measurements | ||||||||||||||||||
| Modulus of elasticity in tension | 1.21×10^5 MPa6 | 117 GPa | no data | 1.07×10^5 MPa | 117 GPa | 131 GPa | 110 GPa | 1.1×10^5 MPa | no data | 117 GPa | no data | 117 GPa | 97 GPa | 135 GPa | 115 GPa | 1.03×10^5 MPa | 1.17×10^5 MPa | 50 GPa |
| Modulus of rigidity (shear modulus) | 44130 MPa7 | no data | 37 GPa | no data | no data | no data | no data | 41370 MPa | no data | 45 kN/mm2 | no data | no data | no data | no data | no data | 38610 MPa | 44130 MPa | no data |
| Tensile strength, minimum (AMS 4640 specification) | > 760 MPa8 | 179 to 262 MPa | > 330 MPa | > 586 MPa | > 585 MPa | 410 to 590 MPa | > 485 MPa | 324 MPa | 180 N/mm2 | 480 to 560 MPa | 358 to 414 MPa | 235 MPa | > 360 MPa | 370 to 430 MPa | 475 to 580 MPa | 538 MPa | > 260 MPa | no data |
| Yield strength at 0.5 % extension under load, minimum (AMS 4640) | > 470 MPa9 | 69 MPa | > 130 MPa | > 221 MPa | > 295 MPa | 130 to 250 MPa | 550 MPa | 103 MPa | no data | > 450 MPa | 124 to 179 MPa | no data | > 220 MPa | no data | > 350 MPa | 310 MPa | > 205 MPa | no data |
| Elongation in 4D, minimum (AMS 4640) | > 10 %10 | 35 % | > 15 % | > 12 % | > 10 % | 20 to 75 % | > 13 % | 62 % | > 37 % | > 10 % | 30 to 45 % | 45 % | > 20 % | 40 % | > 25 % | 17 % | > 8 % | no data |
| Ultimate tensile strength, Smith Metal datasheetValue printed in a supplier technical datasheet | 760 N/mm2 | 179 to 262 MPa | > 330 MPa | > 586 MPa | > 585 MPa | 410 to 590 MPa | > 485 MPa | 324 MPa | 180 N/mm2 | 480 to 560 MPa | 358 to 414 MPa | 235 MPa | > 360 MPa | 370 to 430 MPa | 475 to 580 MPa | 538 MPa | > 260 MPa | no data |
| 0.2 % proof strength, Smith Metal datasheetValue printed in a supplier technical datasheet | 470 N/mm211 | 69 MPa | > 130 MPa | > 221 MPa | > 295 MPa | 130 to 250 MPa | 550 MPa | 103 MPa | no data | > 450 MPa | 124 to 179 MPa | no data | > 220 MPa | no data | > 350 MPa | 310 MPa | > 205 MPa | no data |
| Tensile strength, typical, HR50 rod 3 in (76 mm) | 772 MPa12 | 179 to 262 MPa | > 330 MPa | > 586 MPa | > 585 MPa | 410 to 590 MPa | > 485 MPa | 324 MPa | 180 N/mm2 | 480 to 560 MPa | 358 to 414 MPa | 235 MPa | > 360 MPa | 370 to 430 MPa | 475 to 580 MPa | 538 MPa | > 260 MPa | no data |
| Yield strength at 0.5 % extension under load, typical, HR50 rod 3 in (76 mm) | 427 MPa13 | 69 MPa | > 130 MPa | > 221 MPa | > 295 MPa | 130 to 250 MPa | 550 MPa | 103 MPa | no data | > 450 MPa | 124 to 179 MPa | no data | > 220 MPa | no data | > 350 MPa | 310 MPa | > 205 MPa | no data |
Why choose it, and why not
Good for
- Strength in a copper alloy: the AMS 4640 minimum tensile strength is 760 MPa.
- Seawater hardware: the Smith Metal datasheet rates corrosion resistance as Excellent.
Watch out for
- Welds and crevices in seawater: selective phase corrosion was seen in welded and biofouled nickel aluminium bronze (2024 study, abstract only).
- Dust and fume carry cancer and allergy warnings in the family safety data sheet, so ventilation and respiratory protection matter.
- Low electrical conductivity: 7 %IACS at 68 °F.
C63000 is a strong, wear-resistant copper alloy for aerospace and seawater hardware. It needs careful handling of dust and fume, and its weld zones and crevices need design attention in seawater. Its space performance is not covered by any source read.
Technical details
For scientists and researchers. Everything above comes from the record below: every number with its method, its conditions and its source.
Other names and standards
The same grade under other systems, as datasheets and standards print them. Each code was checked against the page it comes from.
| System | Codes |
|---|---|
| UNS | C63000 |
| EN name | CW307G |
| AMS | 4640 |
| ASTM | B150 (metric version B150M also listed) |
Notes
The method, full conditions and any caveat for the numbered rows above.
| # | Measurement | Method | Conditions | Caveat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Density, C63000 (Concast physical-properties table) | Value printed in a manufacturer physical-properties table (figures provided by CDA) | temperature 20 °Cgrade C63000 (AMS 4640)unit in source printed 'gm/cm 3'; same row prints 0.274 lb/in3 at 68 °F | — |
| 2 | Melting point, liquidus | Value printed in a manufacturer physical-properties table (figures provided by CDA) | grade C63000unit in source 1930 °F | — |
| 3 | Melting point, solidus | Value printed in a manufacturer physical-properties table (figures provided by CDA) | grade C63000unit in source 1895 °F | — |
| 4 | Electrical conductivity, C63000 (National Bronze) | — | temperature 68 °Ftemper not statedunit in source %IACS @ 68 F | — |
| 5 | Electrical conductivity, metric (Concast physical-properties table) | Value printed in a manufacturer physical-properties table (figures provided by CDA) | temperature 20 °Cunit in source 0.041 MegaSiemens/cm at 20 °C | — |
| 6 | Modulus of elasticity in tension | Value printed in a manufacturer physical-properties table (figures provided by CDA) | temperature not stated in the tableunit in source 17500 ksi | — |
| 7 | Modulus of rigidity (shear modulus) | Value printed in a manufacturer physical-properties table (figures provided by CDA) | temperature not stated in the tableunit in source 6400 ksi | — |
| 8 | Tensile strength, minimum (AMS 4640 specification) | Minimum value printed in the AMS 4640 mechanical-properties table on the manufacturer page; a specification minimum, not a typical value | temper HR50 drawn and stress relieved, or TQ50 temper annealedsize rounds, hexagons and octogons up to 1 inunit in source 110 ksibasis minimum specification value, room temperature | — |
| 9 | Yield strength at 0.5 % extension under load, minimum (AMS 4640) | Minimum value printed in the AMS 4640 mechanical-properties table on the manufacturer page | temper HR50 drawn and stress relieved, or TQ50 temper annealedsize rounds, hexagons and octogons up to 1 inunit in source 68 ksibasis minimum specification value, room temperature | — |
| 10 | Elongation in 4D, minimum (AMS 4640) | Minimum value printed in the AMS 4640 mechanical-properties table on the manufacturer page | temper HR50 drawn and stress relieved, or TQ50 temper annealedsize rounds, hexagons and octogons up to 1 in | — |
| 11 | 0.2 % proof strength, Smith Metal datasheet | — | offset 0.2 %size 25 mm and underbasis datasheet value; whether it is a minimum or typical is not stated | Uses a 0.2 % offset, while the AMS 4640 minimum above uses 0.5 % extension under load; the two should not be compared directly. |
| 12 | Tensile strength, typical, HR50 rod 3 in (76 mm) | Typical value printed in a supplier mechanical-properties table; not a guaranteed minimum | temper HR50section 3 in (76 mm) rodtemperature 68 °F (20 °C)unit in source 112 ksibasis typical (TYP) value | — |
| 13 | Yield strength at 0.5 % extension under load, typical, HR50 rod 3 in (76 mm) | Typical value printed in a supplier mechanical-properties table; not a guaranteed minimum | temper HR50section 3 in (76 mm) rodtemperature 68 °F (20 °C)unit in source 62 ksibasis typical (TYP) value | — |
Corrosion and compatibility
What happens when it meets other materials and environments.
| Environment | Concern | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| Seawater, including welded areas, crevices and biofouled surfaces (nickel aluminium bronze family, not C63000 by name) | moderate | In seawater tests, welded nickel aluminium bronze lost its beta-prime phase at the weld heat-affected zone and corroded in crevices under biofouling and stress.1 |
| General corrosion resistance of C63000 (datasheet statement, no exposure test given) | low | The supplier datasheet rates C63000 corrosion resistance as Excellent, but gives no corrosion rate or exposure test.2 |
| # | Environment | Details | Test conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seawater, including welded areas, crevices and biofouled surfaces (nickel aluminium bronze family, not C63000 by name) | A 2024 study of plasma-welded nickel aluminium bronze in laboratory and marine seawater tests found selective phase corrosion of the retained beta-prime phase in the heat-affected zone. It also found crevice corrosion, linked to selective corrosion of the kappa-III phase, at biofouled and stressed areas of the parent metal. The authors say these real-world factors severely impact the alloy's corrosion resistance. The study covers nickel aluminium bronze in general and does not name C63000. | alloy plasma-welded nickel aluminium bronzetest laboratory and marine seawater exposure, with biofouling and residual stress consideredbasis abstract read; the full text was not read |
| 2 | General corrosion resistance of C63000 (datasheet statement, no exposure test given) | Smith Metal's datasheet rates C63000 corrosion resistance as Excellent and lists high corrosion resistance among its key features. It gives no corrosion rate, exposure time, medium or test method, so the rating cannot be compared with a measured value. | basis qualitative datasheet rating only |
Risks and side effects
Hazards to people, what happens when a cell overheats, and how the material is handled and stored.
For people
The supplier safety data sheet for the aluminium bronze family classifies it with the signal word Danger. The sheet does not name C63000, so these are family-level warnings.
- Dust and fume
- Elevated temperatures or mechanical action can form dust and fumes that may be irritating. The sheet says the product may form combustible dust concentrations in air.
- Cancer and allergy
- The hazard statements include May cause cancer, May cause an allergic skin reaction, and May cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled.
- In a fire
- In a fire, nickel may form nickel carbonyl, which the sheet calls a highly toxic substance and known carcinogen.
If the alloy corrodes in service
These results come from a 2024 seawater study of welded nickel aluminium bronze, read from its abstract. They are not C63000 service records.
- Weld zone
- The retained beta-prime phase in the heat-affected zone of plasma welds underwent selective phase corrosion in seawater tests.
- Biofouling and stress
- Crevice corrosion linked to selective corrosion of the kappa-III phase occurred at biofouled and stressed areas of the parent metal.
Handling and storage
- Storage
- The sheet says to store the material locked up with the container tightly closed, and to ground and bond containers and receiving equipment.
- Dust and ignition
- Prevent dust accumulation to limit the explosion hazard, and keep the material away from heat, sparks, open flames and hot surfaces.
Test details
The original wording and numbers from the sources, for readers who want them.
Failure risks
| Failure | Trigger and consequence |
|---|---|
| Selective phase corrosion in the weld heat-affected zonemoderate severity | Plasma welding, then exposure to seawater; the retained beta-prime phase in the heat-affected zone is attackedIn seawater tests on plasma-welded nickel aluminium bronze, the retained beta-prime phase in the heat-affected zone experienced selective phase corrosion (abstract; C63000 not named). |
| Crevice corrosion at biofouled and stressed areashigh severity | Biofouling and residual stress on the parent metal in seawaterCrevice corrosion associated with selective phase corrosion of the kappa-III phase; the authors say these factors severely impact corrosion resistance (abstract; C63000 not named). |
Side effects on surrounding parts
| Affects | Effect |
|---|---|
| Operators, through the airways and skin | Elevated temperatures or mechanical action can form dust and fumes that may be irritating (Concast safety data sheet, family sheet that lists AMS-4640). |
Handling and storage
- Prevent dust accumulation to minimise the explosion hazard from combustible dust; keep away from heat, sparks, open flames and hot surfaces; ground and bond containers and receiving equipment (Concast safety data sheet, family sheet).
- Store locked up; keep the container tightly closed; do not breathe dust; wear protective gloves, clothing and eye protection (Concast safety data sheet, family sheet).
Supply and geography
How common the raw materials are and where they come from.
Copper (mine production)
- Top producers (2025)
- Chile 23%, Congo (Kinshasa) 13.9%, Peru 11.7%, China 7.8%, Russia 5.7%
- Critical mineral lists
- US: listed
- Recycling
- USGS: old (post-consumer) scrap provided an estimated 160,000 tons of copper in 2025, and about 760,000 tons were recovered from new (manufacturing) scrap; brass and wire-rod mills accounted for approximately 80% of the total.
Aluminum (smelter production)
- Top producers (2025)
- China 60.8%, India 5.7%, Russia 5.3%, Canada 4.5%, United Arab Emirates 3.6%
- Recycling
- USGS: aluminum recovered from purchased scrap in the United States was about 3.6 million tons in 2025.
Nickel (mine production)
- Top producers (2025)
- Indonesia 66.7%, Philippines 6.9%, Russia 5.1%, New Caledonia 3.6%, Canada 3.6%
- Recycling
- USGS: most secondary nickel was nickel content of stainless-steel scrap; in 2025, nickel recovered from scrap accounted for approximately 60% of apparent consumption.
Documents
Datasheets, safety data sheets, papers and standards you can open.
Full record
The complete spore, as stored. Free to reuse under CC-BY-4.0. Images keep the licence shown with each one.
Show the full YAML
spore: profile
id: nickel-aluminium-bronze-c63000
spore_version: 0.2
family: copper-alloys
name: Nickel aluminium bronze C63000
abbreviation: NAB C63000
role: wear-resistant structural copper alloy
category: metals
type: copper-alloys
summary: |
Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 (UNS C63000, AMS 4640) is a copper alloy with 9.0 to 11.0 % aluminium, 4.0 to 5.5 % nickel and 2.0 to 4.0 % iron. Its aerospace specification AMS 4640 sets a minimum tensile strength of 760 MPa and a minimum yield strength of 470 MPa at 0.5 % extension for rounds up to 1 in in the HR50 or TQ50 temper. The Concast physical-properties table gives a density of 7.58 g/cm3 at 20 °C.
best_for: Strong, tough copper alloy for aerospace landing gear, bearings and seawater hardware where wear and corrosion resistance matter
weakest_at: 'Electrical conduction: 7 %IACS at 68 °F, so it is a poor conductor compared with pure copper'
identity:
formula: Copper-rich alloy of Cu with Al, Ni and Fe (wrought composition in story.recipe)
source: nb-c63000
where: Chemical composition table, title line 'C63000 (Aluminum Bronze)'
designations:
- system: UNS
code: C63000
source: concast-c63000
where: Machinability table, 'Copper alloy UNS No.' row, value C63000
- system: AMS
code: '4640'
source: concast-c63000
where: Page title 'AMS 4640-C63000' and stocked alloy specs list
- system: ASTM
code: B150
note: metric version B150M also listed
source: concast-c63000
where: Similar or equivalent specification table, ASTM column
- system: EN name
code: CW307G
source: smith-c63000
where: Related material specifications list
tags:
environments: []
stresses: []
applications:
- structures
- mechanisms
properties:
- benchmark: density
label: Density, C63000 (Concast physical-properties table)
value: 7.58
unit: g/cm3
scope: material
conditions:
temperature: 20 °C
grade: C63000 (AMS 4640)
unit_in_source: printed 'gm/cm 3'; same row prints 0.274 lb/in3 at 68 °F
method: Value printed in a manufacturer physical-properties table (figures provided by CDA)
status: ground
source: concast-c63000
where: Physical properties table, Density, metric column
- benchmark: melting_point
label: Melting point, liquidus
value: 1054
unit: °C
scope: material
conditions:
grade: C63000
unit_in_source: 1930 °F
method: Value printed in a manufacturer physical-properties table (figures provided by CDA)
status: ground
source: concast-c63000
where: Physical properties table, Melting point - liquidus, metric column
- benchmark: melting_point
label: Melting point, solidus
value: 1035
unit: °C
scope: material
conditions:
grade: C63000
unit_in_source: 1895 °F
method: Value printed in a manufacturer physical-properties table (figures provided by CDA)
status: ground
source: concast-c63000
where: Physical properties table, Melting point - solidus, metric column
- benchmark: electrical_conductivity
label: Electrical conductivity, C63000 (National Bronze)
value: 7
unit: '%IACS'
scope: material
conditions:
temperature: 68 °F
temper: not stated
unit_in_source: '%IACS @ 68 F'
method: Value printed in a supplier datasheet
status: ground
source: nb-c63000
where: Physical Properties, Electrical Conductivity
- benchmark: electrical_conductivity
label: Electrical conductivity, metric (Concast physical-properties table)
value: 0.041
unit: MegaSiemens/cm
scope: material
conditions:
temperature: 20 °C
unit_in_source: 0.041 MegaSiemens/cm at 20 °C
method: Value printed in a manufacturer physical-properties table (figures provided by CDA)
status: ground
source: concast-c63000
where: Physical properties table, Electrical conductivity, metric column
- benchmark: thermal_conductivity
label: Thermal conductivity, C63000 (National Bronze)
value: 22.6
unit: Btu·ft/(hr·ft2·F)
scope: material
conditions:
temperature: 68 °F
unit_in_source: printed '22.60 Btu · ft/(hr · ft2· F) at 68F'
method: Value printed in a supplier datasheet
status: ground
source: nb-c63000
where: Physical Properties, Thermal Conductivity
- benchmark: specific_heat
label: Specific heat capacity, C63000 (National Bronze)
value: 0.09
unit: Btu/(lb·F)
scope: material
conditions:
temperature: 68 °F
unit_in_source: printed '0.090 Btu/lb/ F at 68 F'
method: Value printed in a supplier datasheet
status: ground
source: nb-c63000
where: Physical Properties, Specific Heat Capacity
- benchmark: elastic_modulus
label: Modulus of elasticity in tension
value: 120650
unit: MPa
scope: material
conditions:
temperature: not stated in the table
unit_in_source: 17500 ksi
method: Value printed in a manufacturer physical-properties table (figures provided by CDA)
status: ground
source: concast-c63000
where: Physical properties table, Modulus of elasticity in tension, metric column
- benchmark: shear_modulus
label: Modulus of rigidity (shear modulus)
value: 44127
unit: MPa
scope: material
conditions:
temperature: not stated in the table
unit_in_source: 6400 ksi
method: Value printed in a manufacturer physical-properties table (figures provided by CDA)
status: ground
source: concast-c63000
where: Physical properties table, Modulus of rigidity, metric column
- benchmark: ultimate_tensile_strength
label: Tensile strength, minimum (AMS 4640 specification)
value: 760
unit: MPa
bound: lower
scope: material
conditions:
temper: HR50 drawn and stress relieved, or TQ50 temper annealed
size: rounds, hexagons and octogons up to 1 in
unit_in_source: 110 ksi
basis: minimum specification value, room temperature
method: Minimum value printed in the AMS 4640 mechanical-properties table on the manufacturer page; a specification minimum, not a typical value
status: ground
source: concast-c63000
where: AMS 4640-C63000 mechanical properties, size range up to 1 in, Tensile strength min
- benchmark: yield_strength
label: Yield strength at 0.5 % extension under load, minimum (AMS 4640)
value: 470
unit: MPa
bound: lower
scope: material
conditions:
temper: HR50 drawn and stress relieved, or TQ50 temper annealed
size: rounds, hexagons and octogons up to 1 in
unit_in_source: 68 ksi
basis: minimum specification value, room temperature
method: Minimum value printed in the AMS 4640 mechanical-properties table on the manufacturer page
status: ground
source: concast-c63000
where: AMS 4640-C63000 mechanical properties, size range up to 1 in, Yield strength min at 0.5% extension
- benchmark: elongation
label: Elongation in 4D, minimum (AMS 4640)
value: 10
unit: '%'
bound: lower
scope: material
conditions:
temper: HR50 drawn and stress relieved, or TQ50 temper annealed
size: rounds, hexagons and octogons up to 1 in
method: Minimum value printed in the AMS 4640 mechanical-properties table on the manufacturer page
status: ground
source: concast-c63000
where: AMS 4640-C63000 mechanical properties, size range up to 1 in, Elongation in 4D min
- benchmark: ultimate_tensile_strength
label: Ultimate tensile strength, Smith Metal datasheet
value: 760
unit: N/mm2
scope: material
conditions:
size: 25 mm and under
basis: datasheet value; whether it is a minimum or typical is not stated
method: Value printed in a supplier technical datasheet
status: ground
source: smith-c63000
where: Mechanical Properties table, UTS, diameter 25mm and under
- benchmark: yield_strength
label: 0.2 % proof strength, Smith Metal datasheet
value: 470
unit: N/mm2
scope: material
conditions:
offset: 0.2 %
size: 25 mm and under
basis: datasheet value; whether it is a minimum or typical is not stated
method: Value printed in a supplier technical datasheet
status: ground
note: Uses a 0.2 % offset, while the AMS 4640 minimum above uses 0.5 % extension under load; the two should not be compared directly.
source: smith-c63000
where: Mechanical Properties table, 0.2% Proof Strength, diameter 25mm and under
- benchmark: ultimate_tensile_strength
label: Tensile strength, typical, HR50 rod 3 in (76 mm)
value: 772
unit: MPa
scope: material
conditions:
temper: HR50
section: 3 in (76 mm) rod
temperature: 68 °F (20 °C)
unit_in_source: 112 ksi
basis: typical (TYP) value
method: Typical value printed in a supplier mechanical-properties table; not a guaranteed minimum
status: ground
source: nb-c63000
where: Mechanical properties table, Rod, HR50, section 3 in (76 mm), TYP row, metric columns
- benchmark: yield_strength
label: Yield strength at 0.5 % extension under load, typical, HR50 rod 3 in (76 mm)
value: 427
unit: MPa
scope: material
conditions:
temper: HR50
section: 3 in (76 mm) rod
temperature: 68 °F (20 °C)
unit_in_source: 62 ksi
basis: typical (TYP) value
method: Typical value printed in a supplier mechanical-properties table; not a guaranteed minimum
status: ground
source: nb-c63000
where: Mechanical properties table, Rod, HR50, section 3 in (76 mm), TYP row, Yield Strength 0.5% ext under load, metric columns
corrosion:
- environment: Seawater, including welded areas, crevices and biofouled surfaces (nickel aluminium bronze family, not C63000 by name)
headline: In seawater tests, welded nickel aluminium bronze lost its beta-prime phase at the weld heat-affected zone and corroded in crevices under biofouling and stress.
effect: A 2024 study of plasma-welded nickel aluminium bronze in laboratory and marine seawater tests found selective phase corrosion of the retained beta-prime phase in the heat-affected zone. It also found crevice corrosion, linked to selective corrosion of the kappa-III phase, at biofouled and stressed areas of the parent metal. The authors say these real-world factors severely impact the alloy's corrosion resistance. The study covers nickel aluminium bronze in general and does not name C63000.
rating: moderate
conditions:
alloy: plasma-welded nickel aluminium bronze
test: laboratory and marine seawater exposure, with biofouling and residual stress considered
basis: abstract read; the full text was not read
source: tecnalia-nab-2024
where: Abstract of the repository record (hdl.handle.net/11556/10291)
- environment: General corrosion resistance of C63000 (datasheet statement, no exposure test given)
headline: The supplier datasheet rates C63000 corrosion resistance as Excellent, but gives no corrosion rate or exposure test.
effect: Smith Metal's datasheet rates C63000 corrosion resistance as Excellent and lists high corrosion resistance among its key features. It gives no corrosion rate, exposure time, medium or test method, so the rating cannot be compared with a measured value.
rating: low
conditions:
basis: qualitative datasheet rating only
source: smith-c63000
where: Corrosion Resistance box and Key features list
risks:
hazards:
- text: 'Concast safety data sheet for the aluminium bronze alloy family (SDS 1, revision 25 March 2022; the sheet covers product codes including AMS-4640 but does not name C63000): signal word Danger. Hazard statements: may form combustible dust concentrations in air; may cause an allergic skin reaction; may cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled; may cause cancer; may damage fertility; causes damage to lungs through prolonged or repeated exposure by inhalation.'
ghs: []
source: concast-sds
where: Section 2, Hazard(s) identification, health and physical hazards, label elements
- text: In a fire, nickel may form nickel carbonyl, which the Concast safety data sheet calls a highly toxic substance and known carcinogen.
ghs: []
source: concast-sds
where: Section 5, fire-fighting measures, combustion products
failure_risks:
- mode: Selective phase corrosion in the weld heat-affected zone
trigger: Plasma welding, then exposure to seawater; the retained beta-prime phase in the heat-affected zone is attacked
consequence: In seawater tests on plasma-welded nickel aluminium bronze, the retained beta-prime phase in the heat-affected zone experienced selective phase corrosion (abstract; C63000 not named).
severity: moderate
source: tecnalia-nab-2024
where: Abstract
- mode: Crevice corrosion at biofouled and stressed areas
trigger: Biofouling and residual stress on the parent metal in seawater
consequence: Crevice corrosion associated with selective phase corrosion of the kappa-III phase; the authors say these factors severely impact corrosion resistance (abstract; C63000 not named).
severity: high
source: tecnalia-nab-2024
where: Abstract
side_effects:
- text: Elevated temperatures or mechanical action can form dust and fumes that may be irritating (Concast safety data sheet, family sheet that lists AMS-4640).
affects: Operators, through the airways and skin
source: concast-sds
where: Section 4, most important symptoms and effects
handling:
- text: Prevent dust accumulation to minimise the explosion hazard from combustible dust; keep away from heat, sparks, open flames and hot surfaces; ground and bond containers and receiving equipment (Concast safety data sheet, family sheet).
source: concast-sds
where: Section 2, precautionary statements, prevention
- text: Store locked up; keep the container tightly closed; do not breathe dust; wear protective gloves, clothing and eye protection (Concast safety data sheet, family sheet).
source: concast-sds
where: Section 2, precautionary statements, prevention and storage
mitigations: []
uses:
- application: structures
device: Aerospace landing gear
example: Smith Metal lists aerospace landing gear first among the typical applications of C63000 and says the grade was developed to the AMS4640 aerospace specification.
source: smith-c63000
where: Typical Applications list; Product Description
- application: mechanisms
device: Bearings, bushings, gears, cams and valve seats
example: Concast lists bearings, bushings, cams, gears, valve seats and hydraulic bushings for earth-moving equipment among the typical industrial uses of AMS 4640-C63000.
source: concast-c63000
where: Extruded and drawn section, Typical uses, Industrial
- application: structures
device: Ship propellers, marine bolts and nuts
example: Concast lists ship propellers, bolts and nuts among the marine uses of AMS 4640-C63000.
source: concast-c63000
where: Extruded and drawn section, Typical uses, Marine
supply:
- subject: Copper (mine production)
producers:
- country: Chile
share_percent: 23
year: 2025
- country: Congo (Kinshasa)
share_percent: 13.9
year: 2025
- country: Peru
share_percent: 11.7
year: 2025
- country: China
share_percent: 7.8
year: 2025
- country: Russia
share_percent: 5.7
year: 2025
critical_lists:
- list: U.S. Final 2025 List of Critical Minerals (copper added, per USGS Mineral Commodity Summaries 2026)
listed: true
recycling: 'USGS: old (post-consumer) scrap provided an estimated 160,000 tons of copper in 2025, and about 760,000 tons were recovered from new (manufacturing) scrap; brass and wire-rod mills accounted for approximately 80% of the total.'
substitutes: []
source: usgs-mcs2026-copper
where: World Mine and Refinery Production table, mine production 2025e (world total 23,000 thousand t; shares calculated by Space Mushroom); Critical minerals and Recycling paragraphs
- subject: Aluminum (smelter production)
producers:
- country: China
share_percent: 60.8
year: 2025
- country: India
share_percent: 5.7
year: 2025
- country: Russia
share_percent: 5.3
year: 2025
- country: Canada
share_percent: 4.5
year: 2025
- country: United Arab Emirates
share_percent: 3.6
year: 2025
critical_lists: []
recycling: 'USGS: aluminum recovered from purchased scrap in the United States was about 3.6 million tons in 2025.'
substitutes: []
source: usgs-mcs2026-aluminum
where: World Smelter Production and Capacity table, Smelter production 2025e (world total 74,000 thousand t; shares calculated by Space Mushroom); Recycling paragraph
- subject: Nickel (mine production)
producers:
- country: Indonesia
share_percent: 66.7
year: 2025
- country: Philippines
share_percent: 6.9
year: 2025
- country: Russia
share_percent: 5.1
year: 2025
- country: New Caledonia
share_percent: 3.6
year: 2025
- country: Canada
share_percent: 3.6
year: 2025
critical_lists: []
recycling: 'USGS: most secondary nickel was nickel content of stainless-steel scrap; in 2025, nickel recovered from scrap accounted for approximately 60% of apparent consumption.'
substitutes: []
source: usgs-mcs2026-nickel
where: World Mine Production and Reserves table, mine production 2025e (world total 3,900,000 t; shares calculated by Space Mushroom); Recycling paragraph
media: []
documents:
- title: National Bronze and Metals, C63000 (Aluminum Bronze) product data sheet, PDF
type: datasheet
url: https://www.nationalbronze.com/pdfs/C63000.pdf
- title: Wieland Concast, C63000 (C630) nickel-aluminum bronze, AMS 4640-C63000 product page
type: datasheet
url: https://www.concast.com/c63000.php
year: 2026
- title: Smiths Metal Centres, C63000 technical datasheet (bronze alloy)
type: datasheet
url: https://www.smithmetal.com/pdf/bronze/c63000.pdf
year: 2023
- title: Wieland Concast safety data sheet, Aluminum Bronze Alloys (SDS 1, US English)
type: sds
url: https://www.concast.com/files/SDS-1%20Aluminum%20Bronze%20Alloys%20US%20English.pdf
year: 2022
- title: Corrosion mechanisms of plasma welded nickel aluminium bronze immersed in seawater (repository record)
type: paper
url: https://hdl.handle.net/11556/10291
year: 2024
- title: USGS Mineral Commodity Summaries 2026, Copper
type: report
url: https://pubs.usgs.gov/periodicals/mcs2026/mcs2026-copper.pdf
year: 2026
- title: USGS Mineral Commodity Summaries 2026, Nickel
type: report
url: https://pubs.usgs.gov/periodicals/mcs2026/mcs2026-nickel.pdf
year: 2026
- title: USGS Mineral Commodity Summaries 2026, Aluminum
type: report
url: https://pubs.usgs.gov/periodicals/mcs2026/mcs2026-aluminum.pdf
year: 2026
gaps:
- No space, vacuum, radiation, outgassing or thermal-vacuum result for C63000 was found in any source read; the profile does not cover flight use.
- Coefficient of thermal expansion is printed only in exponent form (9 x 10^-6 per F in National Bronze; 15.5 x 10^-6 per C in Concast), so it is left out.
- Concast prints thermal conductivity (39.1) and specific heat (377.1) in metric with an incomplete unit (W/m and J/kg), so those metric values are left out; the National Bronze Btu values are recorded.
- The 2024 corrosion study was read from its abstract only; its full text was not read. It studies nickel aluminium bronze in general, not C63000 specifically.
- No C63000-specific corrosion rate, exposure time or cavitation result was found in a source read. Two search-result records on NAB seawater corrosion (Wharton et al. 2005 and a cavitation study) were seen only as titles and not read, so no value from them is used.
- The Concast safety data sheet covers the aluminium bronze family (product codes include AMS-4640 but not C63000 by name). Its hazards are recorded as family-level, not grade-specific.
- No C63000 safety data sheet was found; no GHS hazard codes were printed in the sheets read.
- Critical-mineral status of nickel and aluminium was not printed in the USGS chapters read, so those lists are left empty.
- Brinell hardness (201 to 248 HB, AMS 4640 and Smith Metal) is printed but is not a canonical property in this collection, so it is not recorded as a property row.
- The SAE, Federal and CDA designation columns on the Concast page are not aligned clearly to C63000, so those codes are left out; the EN name (CuAl10Ni5 style) is not printed for C63000 in a source read.
sources:
nb-c63000:
title: National Bronze and Metals, C63000 (Aluminum Bronze) product data sheet
id: PDF, file C63000.pdf (undated)
url: https://www.nationalbronze.com/pdfs/C63000.pdf
kind: datasheet
license: supplier document, cited not reproduced
concast-c63000:
title: Wieland Concast, C63000 (C630) nickel-aluminum bronze, AMS 4640-C63000 product page
id: AMS 4640-C63000 product page (page copyright 2026)
url: https://www.concast.com/c63000.php
year: 2026
kind: datasheet
license: manufacturer web page, cited not reproduced
smith-c63000:
title: Smiths Metal Centres, C63000 technical datasheet (bronze alloy)
id: datasheet, copyright 2023
url: https://www.smithmetal.com/pdf/bronze/c63000.pdf
year: 2023
kind: datasheet
license: supplier document, cited not reproduced
concast-sds:
title: 'Wieland Concast, Safety Data Sheet: Aluminum Bronze Alloys (SDS 1, version 06)'
id: SDS number 1; revision 25 March 2022
url: https://www.concast.com/files/SDS-1%20Aluminum%20Bronze%20Alloys%20US%20English.pdf
year: 2022
kind: datasheet
license: supplier document, cited not reproduced
tecnalia-nab-2024:
title: Corrosion mechanisms of plasma welded nickel aluminium bronze immersed in seawater (Corrosion Science, repository record; abstract read)
id: doi:10.1016/j.corsci.2024.112004; handle 11556/10291
url: https://hdl.handle.net/11556/10291
year: 2024
kind: paper
license: repository record; abstract only
usgs-mcs2026-copper:
title: Mineral Commodity Summaries 2026, Copper
id: USGS MCS 2026, February 2026
url: https://pubs.usgs.gov/periodicals/mcs2026/mcs2026-copper.pdf
year: 2026
kind: report
license: public domain (USGS)
usgs-mcs2026-nickel:
title: Mineral Commodity Summaries 2026, Nickel
id: USGS MCS 2026, February 2026
url: https://pubs.usgs.gov/periodicals/mcs2026/mcs2026-nickel.pdf
year: 2026
kind: report
license: public domain (USGS)
usgs-mcs2026-aluminum:
title: Mineral Commodity Summaries 2026, Aluminum
id: USGS MCS 2026, February 2026
url: https://pubs.usgs.gov/periodicals/mcs2026/mcs2026-aluminum.pdf
year: 2026
kind: report
license: public domain (USGS)
license: CC-BY-4.0
updated: '2026-11-01'
review:
status: draft
method: assistant
checked_values: 16
unreachable: 0
caveats: 3
note: 'Read by an AI assistant on 2026-11-01 from the National Bronze PDF, Concast and Smith Metal pages, the Concast SDS, the USGS 2026 chapters and the 2024 abstract. Caveats: Smith Metal strengths do not state min or typical; the 0.2 % proof value is not comparable with the 0.5 % extension value; the corrosion study is on NAB in general and was read from its abstract.'
story:
recipe:
line: Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 is a copper-rich alloy in which aluminium, nickel and iron are the main added elements. Manganese, silicon, tin and zinc are minor elements, each limited by the composition table. Wrought rod and bar are supplied in the HR50 (drawn and stress relieved) or TQ50 (temper annealed) temper under AMS 4640.
parts:
- name: Copper
symbol: Cu
share_note: remainder (Cu includes Ag)
role: The matrix metal that makes up most of the alloy.
source: nb-c63000
where: 'Chemical composition table, Cu column: Rem.; footnote Cu value includes Ag'
- name: Aluminium
symbol: Al
share_percent: 9
share_high: 11
role: The main alloying metal in aluminium bronze, as Concast states.
source: nb-c63000
where: Chemical composition table, Al column, min 9.0 and max 11.0
- name: Nickel
symbol: Ni
share_percent: 4
share_high: 5.5
role: Alloying element in the AMS 4640 composition; the Ni value includes Co.
source: nb-c63000
where: Chemical composition table, Ni column, min 4.0 and max 5.5; footnote Ni value includes Co
- name: Iron
symbol: Fe
share_percent: 2
share_high: 4
role: Alloying element named by Concast as one often added to aluminium bronze.
source: nb-c63000
where: Chemical composition table, Fe column, min 2.0 and max 4.0
risk_groups:
- title: For people
level: 2
verdict: 'Dust and fume: cancer and allergy warnings'
lead: The supplier safety data sheet for the aluminium bronze family classifies it with the signal word Danger. The sheet does not name C63000, so these are family-level warnings.
points:
- label: Dust and fume
line: Elevated temperatures or mechanical action can form dust and fumes that may be irritating. The sheet says the product may form combustible dust concentrations in air.
- label: Cancer and allergy
line: The hazard statements include May cause cancer, May cause an allergic skin reaction, and May cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled.
- label: In a fire
line: In a fire, nickel may form nickel carbonyl, which the sheet calls a highly toxic substance and known carcinogen.
- title: If the alloy corrodes in service
level: 2
verdict: Welds and crevices corrode in seawater
lead: These results come from a 2024 seawater study of welded nickel aluminium bronze, read from its abstract. They are not C63000 service records.
points:
- label: Weld zone
line: The retained beta-prime phase in the heat-affected zone of plasma welds underwent selective phase corrosion in seawater tests.
- label: Biofouling and stress
line: Crevice corrosion linked to selective corrosion of the kappa-III phase occurred at biofouled and stressed areas of the parent metal.
- title: Handling and storage
points:
- label: Storage
line: The sheet says to store the material locked up with the container tightly closed, and to ground and bond containers and receiving equipment.
- label: Dust and ignition
line: Prevent dust accumulation to limit the explosion hazard, and keep the material away from heat, sparks, open flames and hot surfaces.
why: Nickel aluminium bronze C63000 is a copper alloy designed for strength, toughness and wear resistance. Smith Metal calls it the most commonly used grade of nickel aluminium bronze in America and says it was developed to the AMS4640 aerospace specification. It combines high strength with toughness and keeps much of its strength at elevated temperatures, according to the datasheet. Its mechanical properties are specified in AMS 4640, which sets minimum values that the profile records as lower bounds.
uses:
- where: Aerospace landing gear
line: Smith Metal lists aerospace landing gear first among the typical applications of C63000, and says the grade was developed to the AMS4640 aerospace specification.
- where: Bearings, bushings and gears
line: Concast lists bearings, bushings, cams, gears, valve seats and hydraulic bushings for earth-moving equipment among the typical industrial uses of AMS 4640-C63000.
- where: Marine propellers and fasteners
line: Concast lists ship propellers, bolts and nuts among the marine uses of AMS 4640-C63000, and Smith Metal lists marine fasteners among its typical applications.
can_do:
- label: Strength
benchmark: ultimate_tensile_strength
value: 760 MPa minimum (AMS 4640)
line: The AMS 4640 specification requires a minimum tensile strength of 760 MPa for rounds up to 1 in in the HR50 or TQ50 temper.
- label: Yield
benchmark: yield_strength
value: 470 MPa minimum at 0.5 % extension
line: The same specification requires a minimum yield strength of 470 MPa at 0.5 % extension under load, for the same sizes.
- label: Typical strength
benchmark: ultimate_tensile_strength
value: 772 MPa typical (HR50 rod, 3 in)
line: A National Bronze typical value for an HR50 rod of 3 in (76 mm) is 772 MPa tensile strength and 427 MPa yield strength at 0.5 % extension.
- label: Density
benchmark: density
value: 7.58 g/cm3 at 20 °C
line: The Concast physical-properties table gives a density of 7.58 g/cm3 at 20 °C.
- label: Electrical conduction
benchmark: electrical_conductivity
value: 7 %IACS at 68 °F
line: National Bronze gives an electrical conductivity of 7 %IACS at 68 °F, so the alloy is a poor conductor compared with pure copper.
compare: C63000 is a stronger, harder copper alloy than the soft copper profiled in this collection, but it conducts electricity far less well. The gap comes from the aluminium and nickel dissolved in the copper matrix. The datasheet says that C63000 keeps much of its strength at elevated temperatures, and the specification sets its minimum strength for rounds up to 1 in. The table compares C63000 with other profiled metals on density, tensile strength and electrical conductivity.
compare_rows:
- label: Density
benchmark: density
- label: Tensile strength
benchmark: ultimate_tensile_strength
- label: Electrical conductivity
benchmark: electrical_conductivity
handling:
- Store the material locked up with the container tightly closed (Concast safety data sheet, family sheet).
- Prevent dust accumulation and keep it away from heat, sparks and open flames to limit the explosion risk from combustible dust.
- Do not breathe dust or fume; wear gloves, eye protection and respiratory protection where ventilation is poor.
good_for:
- 'Strength in a copper alloy: the AMS 4640 minimum tensile strength is 760 MPa.'
- 'Seawater hardware: the Smith Metal datasheet rates corrosion resistance as Excellent.'
watch_out:
- 'Welds and crevices in seawater: selective phase corrosion was seen in welded and biofouled nickel aluminium bronze (2024 study, abstract only).'
- Dust and fume carry cancer and allergy warnings in the family safety data sheet, so ventilation and respiratory protection matter.
- 'Low electrical conductivity: 7 %IACS at 68 °F.'
verdict: C63000 is a strong, wear-resistant copper alloy for aerospace and seawater hardware. It needs careful handling of dust and fume, and its weld zones and crevices need design attention in seawater. Its space performance is not covered by any source read.
References
Every number above carries a reference number. Click one to see the source and where in it the value comes from.
| # | Source | Type | Year | Used for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| National Bronze and Metals, C63000 (Aluminum Bronze) product data sheet | datasheet | 6 values | ||
| Wieland Concast, C63000 (C630) nickel-aluminum bronze, AMS 4640-C63000 product page | datasheet | 2026 | 11 values | |
| Smiths Metal Centres, C63000 technical datasheet (bronze alloy) | datasheet | 2023 | 4 values | |
| Wieland Concast, Safety Data Sheet: Aluminum Bronze Alloys (SDS 1, version 06) | datasheet | 2022 | 5 values | |
| Corrosion mechanisms of plasma welded nickel aluminium bronze immersed in seawater (Corrosion Science, repository record; abstract read) | paper | 2024 | 3 values | |
| Mineral Commodity Summaries 2026, Copper | report | 2026 | 1 value | |
| Mineral Commodity Summaries 2026, Nickel | report | 2026 | 1 value | |
| Mineral Commodity Summaries 2026, Aluminum | report | 2026 | 1 value |
Updated