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Send EmailSilicon Copper Master Alloy, 7440-50-8, 7440-21-3
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Silicon Copper Master Alloy |
| CAS Numbers | 7440-50-8 (Copper) / 7440-21-3 (Silicon) |
| HS Code | 7403.29.00 |
| Chemical Formula | Cu + Si (eutectic/intermetallic phases) |
| Appearance | Metallic ingot, silver-gray |
| Form | Cast ingot |
| Physical State (20°C) | Solid |
Silicon Copper Master Alloy is an intermetallic compound of copper (Cu) and silicon (Si). The alloy consists of a copper-rich solid solution matrix with finely distributed silicon-rich intermetallic phases. The primary phases present are Cu solid solution and Cu-Si intermetallic compounds such as Cu₅Si, Cu₁₇Si₃, and Cu₃Si, depending on the composition.
Crystal Structure:
SiCu MASTER ALLOY
|
Cu-Si Intermetallic Phases
|
+----------------+----------------+
| | |
Cu-rich Matrix Cu₅Si/Cu₁₇Si₃ Cu₃Si Phase
(FCC) (Intermetallic) (Intermetallic)
| Phase | Chemical Formula | Crystal System | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cu-rich Matrix | Cu (Si) | Face-Centered Cubic (FCC) | Copper solid solution with dissolved silicon |
| Cu₅Si Phase | Cu₅Si | Tetragonal | Primary silicon-rich intermetallic phase (in 11Si grade) |
| Cu₁₇Si₃ Phase | Cu₁₇Si₃ | Orthorhombic | Secondary intermetallic phase |
| Cu₃Si Phase | Cu₃Si | Hexagonal | Silicon-rich intermetallic phase (dominant in 15Si grade) |
| Parameter | Cu-rich Matrix | Cu₅Si Phase | Cu₃Si Phase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crystal System | Cubic (FCC) | Tetragonal | Hexagonal |
| Lattice Parameter (a) | 3.61 Å | 5.83 Å | 4.08 Å |
| Density | 8.96 g/cm³ | ~7.5 g/cm³ | ~7.8 g/cm³ |
| Hardness | Low (ductile) | High (brittle) | High (brittle) |
The microstructure consists of a copper-rich matrix with finely distributed silicon-rich intermetallic phases. The size and distribution of these phases depend on the cooling rate and silicon content. The intermetallic phases are generally hard and brittle, contributing to the overall hardness of the master alloy. The uniform distribution ensures consistent alloying during dilution.
| Grade | Liquidus (K) | Solidus (K) | Liquidus (°C) | Solidus (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11Si | 1132 | 1075 I* | 859 | 802 |
| 15Si | 1083 | 1075 I* | 810 | 802 |
Note: The "I" notation indicates incipient melting or a specific transformation point at the indicated temperature. These melting ranges ensure appropriate dissolution behavior in copper melts.
| Element | 11Si Grade (% by weight) | 15Si Grade (% by weight) |
|---|---|---|
| Silicon (Si) | 11.0 ± 1.0% | 15.0 ± 1.0% |
| Copper (Cu) | Balance | Balance |
| Element | Maximum (%) |
|---|---|
| Iron (Fe) | < 0.10% |
| Aluminum (Al) | < 0.05% |
| Manganese (Mn) | < 0.05% |
| Zinc (Zn) | < 0.05% |
| Other elements (each) | < 0.03% |
Note: Detailed analysis certificate is provided with each shipment.
| Property | 11Si Grade | 15Si Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Metallic ingot, silver-gray | Metallic ingot, silver-gray |
| Density (20°C) | ~8.3 g/cm³ | ~8.3 g/cm³ |
| Melting Range | 802 – 859 °C | 802 – 810 °C |
| Ingot Weight | Approximately 10–25 kg | Approximately 10–25 kg |
| Ingot Dimensions | ~500–600 mm × 100–120 mm × 60–80 mm | ~500–600 mm × 100–120 mm × 60–80 mm |
Copper-rich solid solution matrix with silicon-rich intermetallic phases
Fine distribution of Cu-Si intermetallic compounds
Narrow melting range for rapid dissolution
Rapidly dissolves in liquid copper at typical melting temperatures
High silicon yield (>95%)
Minimum slag formation
Fine and homogeneous distribution of silicon-rich phases within copper matrix
Consistent alloying during dilution
Uniform silicon distribution in the final alloy
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Master Alloy for Copper-Based Systems | Used as a master alloy for copper-based systems |
| Property Enhancement | Improves strength, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance |
| Electrical Industry | Used in production of copper alloys for electrical applications |
| Automotive Industry | Used in production of components requiring high strength and corrosion resistance |
| Metallurgical Industry | Used in production of bronzes, brasses, and other copper alloys |
| Specialty Alloys | Used in production of specialty copper alloys with specific silicon content |
| Effect | Description | Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Strength Increase | Increases tensile strength and hardness | Solid solution strengthening + precipitation hardening |
| Wear Resistance | Improves wear resistance | Formation of hard intermetallic phases |
| Corrosion Resistance | Enhances corrosion resistance | Formation of protective oxide layer |
| Castability | Improves fluidity and castability | Silicon reduces melting point and improves flow |
| Deoxidizing Effect | Acts as deoxidizer | Silicon reacts with oxygen to form SiO₂ |
During master alloy addition to molten copper:
Cu (liquid) + Cu-Si (master alloy) → Cu-Si (homogeneous melt)
The master alloy dissolves rapidly, releasing silicon which distributes uniformly throughout the melt. The intermetallic phases break down and silicon dissolves in the copper matrix or forms fine, dispersed intermetallic particles depending on the cooling rate and final composition.
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Ingot Dimensions | ~500–600 mm × 100–120 mm × 60–80 mm |
| Ingot Weight | Approximately 10–25 kg per ingot (±5% tolerance) |
| Pallet | Heat-treated wooden pallets |
| Wrapping | Shrink-wrapped for protection during transport and storage |
| Special Packaging | Available upon request (e.g., smaller ingots, custom sizes) |
Store in a dry, well-ventilated area
Avoid contact with moisture and water to prevent oxidation
Ambient temperature storage is acceptable
No special temperature control required
No shelf life limitation under proper storage conditions
Use appropriate lifting equipment for pallet weight
Ingots are not brittle; normal handling is acceptable
Avoid dropping to prevent damage to ingots or packaging
Not classified as hazardous under normal conditions of use
Solid ingot form presents minimal hazard
During melting, high temperatures and metal splash risks
| Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| General | Use protective gloves, safety shoes, and safety goggles |
| Melting Operations | Use full face shield, heat-resistant protective clothing, and appropriate respiratory protection |
| Metal Splash | Use protective clothing and face shield to prevent burns |
| Fume Control | Use local exhaust ventilation during melting operations |
| Route of Exposure | Action to Be Taken |
|---|---|
| Inhalation | Move to fresh air. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist |
| Skin Contact | Wash with plenty of soap and water. For molten metal burns, cool immediately with cold water and seek medical treatment |
| Eye Contact | Rinse immediately with plenty of water. Seek medical attention |
| Ingestion | Seek immediate medical attention |
Do not discharge residues into water or soil
Dispose of waste in accordance with local regulations
For complete safety information, refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided with the product.
| Test | Method |
|---|---|
| Chemical Analysis | Optical Emission Spectrometry (OES) or X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) to verify composition |
| Weight and Dimensions | Checked against accepted tolerances |
| Visual Inspection | Ensure no cracks, large shrinkage cavities, or surface contamination |
| Certificate of Analysis (COA) | Provided with each shipment containing heat number, batch number, and chemical composition |
| Regulation | Status |
|---|---|
| EU REACH | Contains Copper (Cu) and Silicon (Si); refer to SDS for registration details |
| RoHS (Directive 2011/65/EU) | Silicon is not restricted; final alloy must be compliant if used in EEE |
| Conflict Minerals | Sourced only from verified conflict-free smelters |
| Transport | Not classified as dangerous goods in solid ingot form |
| Property | 11Si Grade | 15Si Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Si Content | 11.0 ± 1.0% | 15.0 ± 1.0% |
| Melting Range | 802 – 859 °C | 802 – 810 °C |
| Density | ~8.3 g/cm³ | ~8.3 g/cm³ |
| Form | Ingot (~10–25 kg) | Ingot (~10–25 kg) |
| Main Uses | Master alloy for copper systems, property enhancement, electrical, automotive, metallurgical industries | Master alloy for copper systems, property enhancement, electrical, automotive, metallurgical industries |
| Key Benefits | Strength, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, castability, deoxidizing effect | Strength, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, castability, deoxidizing effect |
Silicon Content: Two grades available: 11Si and 15Si. Choose appropriate grade for the desired silicon content in the final alloy.
Melting Temperature: Melting ranges are grade-specific. Ensure appropriate temperature control during melting.
Deoxidizing Effect: Silicon acts as a deoxidizer. Consider this when calculating oxygen levels in the melt.
Corrosion Resistance: Silicon addition improves corrosion resistance. Suitable for applications requiring enhanced corrosion performance.
Not Hazardous: Not classified as hazardous in solid form. However, melting operations require appropriate safety measures.
Environmental Protection: Dispose of waste in accordance with local regulations.
Storage:
Store in a dry, well-ventilated area
Avoid contact with moisture and water
No special temperature control required
No shelf life limitation under proper conditions
Handling:
Use protective gloves, safety shoes, and safety goggles
Use appropriate lifting equipment for pallets
Melting:
Preheat copper charge to appropriate temperature
Add master alloy to the melt
Gently stir for homogeneity
Expected silicon recovery >95%
Waste Management:
Do not discharge into sewers or water bodies
Dispose in accordance with local regulations
This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only and is prepared based on available technical data. The user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their specific application and for complying with all local, national, and international regulations. For complete safety, storage, handling, transport, waste, and regulatory compliance information, the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier must be consulted. This document does not substitute professional advice.