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What is copper-tungsten alloy

Publication date:

2025-11-18

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What is copper-tungsten alloy

Key features

High density (of tungsten)

Excellent thermal and electrical conductivity (of copper)

High melting point and resistance to electric arc

Low thermal expansion

Good wear resistance

Typical composition

Common degrees include:

W70–Cu30 (70% tungsten, 30% copper)

W80–Cu20

W90–Cu10

Higher tungsten content → denser and more heat-resistant.
Higher copper content → better conductivity.

Why combine tungsten and copper?

They complement each other:

Tungsten: extremely high melting point (3422 °C), hardness, wear resistance.

Copper: excellent thermal and electrical conductivity, toughness.

Together, they create a compound that can withstand extreme heat and electrical stress.

Applications

Electrical contacts and electrodes (e.g., for EDM, resistance welding).

Heat sinks and thermal management components.

Rocket nozzle components, parts exposed to plasma.

High-voltage vacuum switches.

Electrochemical machining.

Radiation shielding (dense yet machinable compared to pure tungsten).