Beryllium copper is copper with about 2% beryllium. After age hardening it is the strongest copper alloy, close to alloy steel, while still conducting heat and electricity well and never sparking. It is used for springs, electrical contacts, mould inserts that need fast cooling, and non-sparking tools. Machining and grinding dust must be controlled because beryllium dust is harmful.
Quick facts
- Beryllium
- About 1.8–2%
- Tensile strength
- About 1,100–1,400 MPa age hardened
- Hardness
- Up to about 38–42 HRC
- Conductivity
- About 20–25% IACS (hardened)
- Non-sparking
- Yes
- Safety
- Control dust from grinding and machining
Typical uses
- Springs and spring contacts
- Electrical connectors and switch parts
- Plastic mould cores and inserts that need fast cooling
- Non-sparking tools
- Bushes for heavy loads
Working with it
- Machine in the soft (solution treated) state, then age harden
- Age hardening is at about 315–330 °C for 2–3 hours
- Use coolant and dust extraction; avoid dry grinding
- Swarf must be collected and disposed of properly
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Questions
- Is beryllium copper dangerous?
- The solid metal is safe to handle. Fine dust or fumes from grinding, welding or polishing can harm the lungs, so they must be controlled.
- Why use beryllium copper in moulds?
- It conducts heat several times faster than tool steel, so hot spots in a mould cool faster and cycle times drop.
- Is beryllium copper magnetic?
- No.
The figures on this page are typical values for guidance, written by Diemeco from standard engineering practice. They are not a specification: confirm grades and properties with the relevant standard or the supplier's mill test certificate, and tolerances with your workshop. Last checked 23 October 2026.