CU6626 GRcop-84 Copper Alloy Powder

GRcop-84 Copper Alloy Powder Description

GRCop-84 Copper Alloy Powder is a spherical chromium-niobium copper powder (Cu-8Cr-4Nb) that exhibits high thermal conductivity, mechanical strength, and microstructural stability. Its nearly pure copper matrix, reinforced by a dispersion of Cr₂Nb Laves-phase precipitates, ensures exceptional thermal conductivity (slightly lower than that of pure copper, but balanced by superior strength) and low thermal expansion, minimising deformation under cyclic thermal stress. With a tensile strength of up to 2000 MPa and creep resistance optimised for temperatures up to 800 °C, the alloy is well-suited for use in harsh environments such as rocket engine combustion chambers or high-temperature heat exchangers. The spherical morphology achieved through gas atomisation (cooling rate ~10⁴ K/s) enhances the flowability and uniformity of layers in additive manufacturing (e.g., laser powder bed fusion) and facilitates dense, defect-free components. The chromium content provides oxidation resistance through a protective Cr₂O₃ layer, while under extreme conditions, NiCrAlY coatings from Stanford Advanced Materials may be necessary for extended durability. Stanford Advanced Materials (SAM) further tailors GRCop-84 by adjusting the composition (e.g., modifying the Cr/Nb ratio), advanced post-processing (hot isostatic pressing), and stringent quality control (e.g., LALI-TOF-MS analysis) to ensure compliance with aerospace standards. GRCop-84 is ideally suited for regeneratively cooled engine liners, nuclear heat exchangers, or complex 3D-printed drive components, forming a cornerstone for high-performance systems of the next generation that require both thermal management and structural resilience.

GRcop-84 Copper Alloy Powder Specifications

Properties

Chemical Composition. %

*Theabove product information is based on theoretical data. For specific requirements and detailed inquiries, please contact us.

GRcop-84 Copper Alloy Powder Applications

• Rocket engine combustion chambers

(e.g., regeneratively cooled linings in reusable launch systems)

• High-temperature heat exchangers

(particularly in nuclear reactors and energy systems)

• Additive manufacturing (AM) of components for aerospace

(e.g., laser powder bed fusion for lightweight drive parts, complex cooling channels)

• 3D-printed rocket nozzles

(requiring high density, complex geometries)

• Thermal protection systems for hypersonic vehicles
• Advanced industrial machinery

(where both thermal management and structural resilience are critical)

Packaging of GRcop-84 Copper Alloy Powder

Our products are packaged in custom boxes of various sizes tailored to the dimensions of the material. Smaller items are securely packaged in PP boxes, while larger items are placed in custom wooden crates. We ensure strict adherence to packaging specifications and the use of appropriate cushioning materials to provide optimal protection during transport.

Packaging: Box, wooden crate, or custom.

Manufacturing Process

1. Testing Procedures

1. Chemical composition analysis - Verified using techniques such as GDMS or XRF to ensure compliance with purity requirements.

GRcop-84 Copper Alloy Powder FAQs

Q1: What is GRCop-84?

A1: GRCop-84 is a spherical high-performance copper alloy powder developed by NASA with a composition of Cu-8Cr-4Nb (atomic percent). It is designed for extreme thermal and mechanical environments, combining high thermal conductivity, oxidation resistance, and exceptional high-temperature strength, making it a critical material for propulsion systems in aerospace, such as rocket engine combustion chambers.

Q2: How does GRCop-84 perform in additive manufacturing?

A2: Process compatibility: Suitable for L-PBF and directed energy deposition (DED).

Benefits: The spherical powder reduces defects while the rapid solidification during AM promotes fine grains and a homogeneous Cr₂Nb precipitation.

Post-processing: Hot isostatic pressing (HIP) eliminates residual porosity and improves density and mechanical properties.

Q3: How is GRCop-84 protected from oxidation at elevated temperatures?

A3: Passive protection: Chromium forms a dense Cr₂O₃ oxide layer that prevents further oxidation.

Active protection: The NiCrAlY coatings from SAM provide additional protection in extreme combustion environments.

Performance Comparison Table with Competing Products

Related Information

1. Raw Materials - Copper (Cu)

Copper, a transition metal with atomic number 29, is known for its exceptional electrical and thermal conductivity, surpassed among pure metals only by Silver. With a density of 8.96 g/cm³ and a melting point of 1 085 °C, it exhibits high ductility and corrosion resistance, forming a protective patina (basic copper carbonate) in damp environments. Its thermal conductivity (~401 W/m-K) and electrical conductivity render it indispensable for electrical wiring, heat exchangers, and electronic components. In alloys such as GRCop-84, copper serves as the primary matrix, providing a conductive and heat-dissipating base whilst ensuring processability. Its inherent antimicrobial properties also enable special applications, e.g., for hospital surfaces or water treatment systems. Beyond traditional uses in bronze (Cu-Sn) and brass (Cu-Zn), the role of copper in modern materials such as high-temperature superconductors (e.g., YBCO) and powders for additive manufacturing highlights its versatility across various industries.

2. Raw Materials - Chromium (Cr)

Chromium, a hard, shiny transition metal (atomic number 24), is vital due to its corrosion resistance and ability to form stable oxide layers. With a high melting point (1 907 °C) and a density of 7.19 g/cm³, chromium readily oxidises to form a thin, self-healing Cr₂O₃ layer that protects against acids, alkalis, and oxidation—properties exploited in stainless steels (e.g., Fe-18Cr-8Ni) and high-temperature alloys. In GRCop-84, chromium creates Cr₂Nb precipitates in the Laves phase that act as barriers to dislocation movement, enhancing mechanical strength and creep resistance at elevated temperatures. Outside metallurgy, chromium finds applications in electroplating (e.g., for automotive trim), pigments (chrome yellow), and catalysts. However, the environmental impact of hexavalent chromium necessitates careful handling, leading to innovations in eco-friendly coatings and alloy design.

3. Raw Materials - Niobium (Nb)

Niobium, a high-melting metal with atomic number 41, combines a high melting point (2 477 °C), low density (8.57 g/cm³), and exceptional superconducting properties. Its capacity to form stable compounds at extreme temperatures renders it significant in aerospace applications (e.g., Inconel 718) and nuclear settings, where Nb-Zr alloys serve as cladding materials. In GRCop-84, niobium interacts with chromium to produce thermally stable Cr₂Nb Laves-phase particles that maintain grain boundaries and impede dislocation glide, thereby ensuring the integrity of the microstructure under cyclic thermal loads. The superconducting characteristics of niobium—exemplified by Nb-Ti and Nb₃Sn alloys—facilitate operations in MRI machines and particle accelerators like the LHC. As a microalloying element in steel, niobium also refines the grain structure, enhancing strength and toughness. Its compatibility with additive manufacturing processes makes niobium a cornerstone for the next generation of materials for propulsion, energy, and quantum technologies.