Changes

The solubility of Zirconium in copper is 0.15 wt% Zr at the eutectic temperature of 980°C (<xr id="fig:Copper corner of the copper zirconium for up to 0.5-wt zirconium"/><!--(Fig. 5.36)-->). Copper-zirconium materials have a similar properties spectrum , compared to the one for copper-chromium materials. At room temperature the mechanical properties of copper-zirconium are less suitable than those of copper chromium, its temperature stability is however at least the same.

The earlier used CuCr and CuZr materials have been partially replaced over the years , by the capitation hardening three materials alloy CuCr1Zr. This material exhibits high mechanical strength at elevated temperatures and good oxidation resistance as well as high softening temperatures. In its hardened condition CuCr1Zr has also a high electrical conductivity (<xr id="fig:Softening of CuCr1Zr after 1hr annealing"/><!--(Bild 5.37)-->). Their usage extends from mechanically and thermally highly stressed parts , such as contact tulips in high voltage switchgear to or electrodes for resistance welding. <xr id="fig:Copper corner of the copper zirconium for up to 0.5-wt zirconium"/><!--Fig. 5.36:--> Copper corner of the copper- zirconium for up to 0.5 wt% zirconium <xr id="fig:Softening of CuCr1Zr after 1hr annealing"/><!--Fig. 5.37:--> Softening of CuCr1Zr after 1 hr annealing and after 90% cold working