Microstructures and properties of high strength and high conductivity Cu-0.8Cr-0.2Zr alloy used for combustion chamber of rocket engines

The hardness, tensile properties and electrical conductivity of Cu-0.8Cr-0.2Zr alloy in different aging treatments were tested and corresponding microstructures were observed by using Optical Microscopy (OM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). After solution at 980°C for 1h, cold rolling with 70% reduction, and then aging at 450°C for 4h, alloy presents a higher strength and higher electrical conductivity. Meanwhile, the hardness, tensile strength, yield strength and electrical conductivity of Cu-0.8Cr-0.2Zr alloy can reach 153HB, 529MPa, 489MPa, and 85.1%IACS, respectively. The fine precipitates, which are formed in the decomposition of the supersaturated solid solution, result in distinct increase in the properties of the alloy. The alloy exhibits good combination of physical and mechanical properties.