Aluminium-copper-phosphorus Master Alloy，Aluminium-copper-phosphorus Alloy，AlCuP Alloy，E FORU

**Product Datasheet: Aluminium-Copper-Phosphorus Master Alloy (Al-Cu-P Alloy)** **Version:** 1.0 | **Date:** 2025-04-02 --- ### **1. General Overview** Aluminium-Copper-Phosphorus Master Alloy (Al-Cu-P Alloy) is a specialized grain refiner and modification agent primarily used in aluminium-silicon (Al-Si) casting alloys. This ternary master alloy combines the benefits of copper's strengthening effects with phosphorus's silicon modification capabilities, providing a dual-function approach to improving both mechanical properties and microstructural characteristics of aluminium castings. --- ### **2. International Standards** Al-Cu-P master alloys are referenced in several international specifications: - **ISO:** ISO 209-1 (Wrought aluminium and aluminium alloys) - **ASTM:** ASTM B179 (Standard Specification for Aluminum Alloys in Ingot and Molten Forms) - **EN:** EN 1676 (Aluminium and aluminium alloys — Master alloys) - **GB/T:** GB/T 8734 (Aluminium alloy master alloys) - **Typical Master Alloy Grades:** Al-10Cu-1P, Al-15Cu-2P, Al-20Cu-3P --- ### **3. Chemical Composition (Weight %)** Typical composition ranges for Al-Cu-P master alloy: | Element | Content (%) | Role & Remarks | |------------------|-------------------|------------------------------------------| | Copper (Cu) | 8.0 – 25.0 | Solid solution strengthening | | Phosphorus (P) | 0.5 – 4.0 | Silicon nucleus, modifier | | Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.25 | Impurity control | | Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.20 | Impurity control | | Zinc (Zn) | ≤ 0.05 | Impurity control | | Other Impurities | ≤ 0.15 total | — | | Aluminium (Al) | Balance | Base metal | --- ### **4. Physical Properties** | Property | Value / Range | |---------------------------|-----------------------------------| | Density | 2.8 – 3.2 g/cm³ | | Melting Range | 550 – 650°C | | Intermetallic Phases | AlP, Al₂Cu, AlCu₃P₂ | | Hardness (Brinell) | 45 – 85 HB (master alloy form) | | Thermal Conductivity | 100 – 150 W/m·K | | Electrical Conductivity | 30 – 45 % IACS | --- ### **5. Key Characteristics & Advantages** - **Dual-Function:** Combines grain refinement (P) with solid solution strengthening (Cu) - **Silicon Modification:** Effectively refines primary and eutectic silicon particles - **Improved Mechanical Properties:** Enhances strength, hardness, and wear resistance - **Good Fluidity:** Maintains excellent casting characteristics - **Reduced Hot Tearing:** Minimizes casting defects in complex geometries --- ### **6. Product Applications** - **Engine Components:** Pistons, cylinder heads, engine blocks - **Wear-Resistant Parts:** Bearing surfaces, bushings, sliding components - **Automotive Castings:** Transmission cases, brake components - **Hydraulic Components:** Pump housings, valve bodies - **General Engineering:** Machine parts requiring good wear resistance --- ### **7. Available Forms** - **Master Alloy:** Ingots, notch bars, granules - **Standard Sizes:** 5–15 kg ingots - **Special Forms:** Custom-sized pieces for automated feeding --- ### **8. Technical Guidelines for Use** - **Addition Rate:** 0.5–2.0% master alloy to the melt - **Melt Temperature:** 720–760°C - **Holding Time:** 20–40 minutes for complete reaction - **Stirring:** Gentle mechanical stirring recommended - **Treatment Window:** Optimal effectiveness within 30–60 minutes after addition --- ### **9. Metallurgical Mechanisms** - **Phosphorus Function:** Forms AlP particles that act as nuclei for silicon phase - **Copper Function:** Provides solid solution strengthening and precipitation hardening - **Synergistic Effect:** Combined action improves overall microstructure - **Modification:** Transforms coarse silicon plates to fine fibrous structure --- ### **10. Performance Comparison** | Master Alloy Type | Silicon Modification | Strength Enhancement | Cost | Applications | |-------------------|---------------------|---------------------|------|--------------| | **Al-Cu-P** | Excellent | Very Good | Medium | Engine components | | **Al-P** | Excellent | None | Low | General casting | | **Al-Sr** | Good | None | Medium | Automotive | | **Al-Cu** | None | Excellent | Medium | Structural | --- ### **11. Quality Control Parameters** - Precise Cu:P ratio control - Homogeneous distribution of intermetallic phases - Consistent dissolution characteristics - Low gas content - Certification of chemical composition --- ### **12. Health, Safety & Handling** - Use standard foundry personal protective equipment - Avoid inhalation of fumes during melting - Store in dry, well-ventilated areas - Follow standard industrial hygiene practices - Phosphorus content requires careful temperature control --- ### **13. Advantages Over Separate Additions** - **Convenience:** Single addition instead of multiple elements - **Consistency:** More reproducible results - **Efficiency:** Better element recovery and distribution - **Cost-Effective:** Reduced processing time and energy consumption - **Quality:** Improved microstructure homogeneity --- ### **Disclaimer** This information is provided for technical reference only. Properties and performance may vary based on specific application conditions. Users are advised to conduct trials to determine suitability for their processes. The manufacturer is not liable for misuse or application failures. Always follow good foundry practices and safety guidelines, particularly regarding phosphorus-containing materials.

Packing of Standard Packing: Typical bulk packaging includes palletized plastic 5 gallon/25 kg. pails, fiber and steel drums to 1 ton super sacks in full container (FCL) or truck load (T/L) quantities. Research and sample quantities and hygroscopic, oxidizing or other air sensitive materials may be packaged under argon or vacuum. Solutions are packaged in polypropylene, plastic or glass jars up to palletized 2289 gallon liquid totes Special package is available on request.