CHILL CAST BETA PHASE CU BASE - AL, NI, FE ALLOY AND ITS APPLICATION TO CARTRIDGES

摘要

A predominately beta phase copper base alloy which is adapted for forming in a semi-solid slurry condition. The alloy has a microstructure comprising discrete particles within a lower melting point matrix and consists essentially of from about 9% to about 10.5% by weight aluminum, at least about 10% by weight nickel and the balance essentially copper. In accordance with an alternative embodiment the nickel can be replaced on a one for one basis by iron within certain limits. The alloys are processed by chill casting with a cooling rate throughout the section of the casting comprising at least about 10 DEG C./sec. The alloys as-cast or when reheated to a semi-solid exhibit a microstructure suitable for press forging.