
CuNi44 vs. Cuprothal
- Product Details
Comparison: CuNi44 vs. Cuprothal
Both CuNi44 and Cuprothal are copper-nickel alloys used for electrical resistance applications, especially in Heating Element s, precision resistors, and thermocouples. While they are similar in composition and function, they differ in manufacturer specifications and performance.
1️⃣ Chemical Composition
Element | CuNi44 (%) | Cuprothal (%) |
---|---|---|
Nickel (Ni) | 44 | 44 |
Copper (Cu) | Balance | Balance |
Manganese (Mn) | 1.0 | 1.5 |
Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.5 | ≤ 0.5 |
Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.1 | ≤ 0.1 |
🔹 Key Difference:
Cuprothal contains slightly more manganese (~1.5%), which improves oxidation resistance and mechanical strength.
CuNi44 is the standard 44% nickel alloy with well-established performance characteristics.
2️⃣ Electrical & Thermal Properties
Property | CuNi44 | Cuprothal |
---|---|---|
Resistivity (μΩ·m at 20°C) | 0.49 | 0.49 |
Temperature Coefficient of Resistance (TCR, 10⁻⁶/K) | ~0 (very low) | ~0 (very low) |
Maximum Operating Temperature (°C) | 600°C – 800°C | 600°C – 850°C |
Melting Point (°C) | 1280°C | 1280°C |
🔹 Key Difference:
Both have the same resistivity and TCR, making them ideal for precision resistors.
Cuprothal has a slightly higher max operating temperature (~850°C vs. ~800°C) due to its manganese content.
3️⃣ Oxidation & Corrosion Resistance
Both alloys are highly resistant to oxidation and corrosion due to their high nickel content.
Cuprothal offers slightly better oxidation resistance at high temperatures due to its added manganese.
➡️ Winner: Cuprothal (Slightly better high-temp performance)
4️⃣ Mechanical Properties
Property | CuNi44 | Cuprothal |
---|---|---|
Ductility | ✅ High | ✅ High |
Creep Resistance | ✅ Good | 🔹 Slightly Better |
🔹 Key Difference:
Cuprothal has slightly better creep resistance due to manganese addition.
5️⃣ Applications
Application | CuNi44 | Cuprothal |
---|---|---|
Precision Resistors | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Thermocouples (Type E, T, K) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Heating Elements | ✅ Yes (up to 800°C) | ✅ Yes (up to 850°C) |
Current Sensors & Shunts | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Marine & Corrosive Environments | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
🔹 Key Difference:
Cuprothal is slightly better for high-temperature applications (~850°C vs. 800°C).
Final Verdict: Which One is Better?
Category | CuNi44 | Cuprothal |
---|---|---|
Max Temperature | 🔹 ~800°C | ✅ ~850°C |
Oxidation Resistance | ✅ Good | 🔹 Slightly Better |
Mechanical Strength | ✅ High | 🔹 Slightly Better |
Electrical Precision | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Excellent |
Cost & Availability | ✅ Widely Available | 🔹 Slightly More Expensive |
✔ Choose CuNi44 if you need:
A standard, widely available option
Good performance up to 800°C
Cost-effectiveness
✔ Choose Cuprothal if you need:
Slightly better high-temperature performance (up to 850°C)
Better oxidation and creep resistance
Both alloys are nearly interchangeable in most applications, but Cuprothal has slight advantages in high-temperature resistance and durability.
Would you like a recommendation for a specific use case? 😊