Abstract
In order to improve the mechanical properties of a Cu–Sn alloy at elevated temperatures as well as the heat-resistant properties of said alloy, the effects of adding a small amount of zirconium were investigated. It was clarified that the addition of zirconium increases the tensile strength and elongation properties after a high-temperature heat treatment, and the addition of more than 0.04% zirconium increases the tensile strength to approximately 300 MPa. For a seamless tube, the tensile strength of a Cu–0.65Sn–0.05Zr–0.008P (mass%) alloy was 301 MPa, with an elongation of 47%. Furthermore, it exhibited high heat-resistant properties after brazing. Thus, it is expected that the Cu–Sn–Zr–P alloy can be used to make seamless tubes for heat exchangers.
