Copper-nickel alloys (Cu-Ni alloys) are a family of metallic materials renowned for their exceptional corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and adaptability across industries. Composed primarily of copper and nickel, these alloys are further enhanced with trace elements to optimize performance in specific environments.
At Alfa Chemistry, you can find high-quality copper-nickel alloys in a variety of forms (including rods, wires, plates, tubes and custom components) to meet your diverse industry needs from offshore engineering to chemical processing.
Key Features of Copper-Nickel Alloys
Superior Corrosion Resistance
- Two primary alloys are widely used: 90-10 Cu-Ni (10% Ni) and 70-30 Cu-Ni (30% Ni). Both rely on a protective surface film for corrosion resistance.
- The protective film comprises a complex mixture of oxides, chlorides, and hydroxychlorides, ensuring stability in marine environments.
- Immune to chloride-induced degradation mechanisms, including pitting corrosion, crevice corrosion, and stress corrosion cracking, overcoming limitations of stainless steels.
- Resistant to sulfide stress corrosion cracking and hydrogen embrittlement, even in sulfide- or ammonia-containing environments.
Note: Prolonged exposure to sulfide-contaminated seawater or sediment with sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) may still lead to localized pitting and accelerated corrosion.
Marine Biofouling Resistance
- Exhibits exceptional resistance to marine biofouling due to dual mechanisms: antibacterial copper ion release and protective surface film formation.
- Effectively inhibits colonization by macro-organisms (e.g., barnacles, seaweed) while tolerating biofilm formation (mucous layer).
- Higher copper content enhances biofouling resistance.
- Environmental factors critically influence performance: Low flow velocity and high dissolved oxygen promote stable protective film formation. Optimal film development under these conditions improves long-term antifouling efficiency.
- Reduces operational costs by minimizing biofouling-related energy losses, maintenance, and cleaning requirements.
Technical Note: Performance variability may occur in stagnant or sulfide-polluted waters, necessitating environmental assessments for specific applications.
Read more: Copper-Nickel Alloys: Versatile Materials for Demanding Applications
