Beryllium Copper - The New Gold?

[manupropria]

Today, I am one step further in the beryllium copper nib project. Soon, the first #9 nibs will be tipped and slit for use in my fountain pens, in nib widths EF, F, M, B, and BB. In the meantime, I have been working on the design of the nibs and have decided to choose the bumblebee as my subject. What inspired me to do this were the actual and attributed symbolic characteristics of this extraordinary insect. The bumblebee is a small miracle of nature: too heavy, too round—and yet it flies. The bumble bees' paradox is its compact power, tire-less motion and beauty born of defiance.

Beryllium copper surpasses all other alloys in terms of elasticity and fatigue resistance, making it the ideal material for a fountainpen nib. Some people claim that BeCu is toxic. However, the proportion of BeCu in this alloy is 0.2%, which is negligible. BeCu grinding dust is classified as toxic, but its use is considered safe. This alloy is also used in surgery for spring parts, clamps, and tweezers because it is strength and elasticity its high fatigue strength, and is highly corrosion-resistant. When polished, BeCu has a beautiful color similar to that of red gold. Over time, a shiny oxide layer forms, which intensifies the red color. This oxide layer provides strong corrosion protection, surpassed only by gold.

Why is beryllium copper so corrosion-resistant? It forms a stable, protective oxide layer Highly resistant to seawater, chemicals, and atmospheric corrosion. It remains hard, resilient, and conductive. In the chemical industry, BeCu is used for pump components, valve seats, and diaphragms that come into contact with acids, alkalis, and solvents.

Any thoughts?

Best,

Martin

 

[floatslow]

Very impressive undertaking. Like a bee, giving beautiful things life (pollination := writing).
The story and insights are interesting points to consider. Too much to convey in any marketing information, but I enjoyed learning about BeCu. I'll keep looking out for my opportunity to get my hands on one (+pen) and trying it.
Best of wishes in your endeavor.

 

[manupropria]

Thank you very much.It'sindeed a very promising material also taking into consideration, that many experts expect the gold price to rise upto $ 10'000.- an ounce in the next 3 to 4 years

 

[BHuij]

They look very cool. While I appreciate the symbolism and meaning behind the bumblebee, I have to say from a purely aesthetic standpoint, I'd rather put an unengraved nib into a pen if I was making one for this nib.

Are you planning to sell nibs alone, or only pens using these nibs? If the former, will these fit a standard JoWo #6 feed/housing?