copper nickels are a unique type of coin material because of their corrosion resistance and durability. Throughout history, many civilizations have minted coins made of copper nickel, including Greco-Bactrian kings and many modern civilizations.
Today, circulating US quarters and dimes are composed of cupro-nickel clad with a copper core; the coin’s cent is made of a 75 percent copper, 25 percent nickel alloy. The 1 and 2 euro, 20p and 50p (UK), Swiss franc and South Korean 500 and 100 won denominations are all minted from copper nickel.
The metal is known for its excellent corrosion resistance and strength, especially when used in marine applications. It’s a popular choice for boat propellers and hulls because it doesn’t lose its strength when exposed to salt water.
Moreover, copper nickels are often used in heat exchangers because of their high heat conductivity properties. This is a critical factor for applications that involve moving heat quickly, such as car radiators and home heating systems.
Another benefit of using copper nickels is their resistance to biofouling. This is due to the way that copper nickels form a protective film on their surfaces, which prevents organisms from attaching themselves to them.
These protective films make copper nickels an ideal choice for Naval saltwater systems, as the adhesion of sea life on marine structures can be extremely detrimental to performance and costly to clean. Furthermore, copper nickels are a sustainable option because they’re recyclable. So, if you’re looking for a corrosion-resistant metal for your next project, be sure to check out the various options available at National Electronic Alloys!
