Manu Propria Beryllium Copper Nibs

[manupropria]

I have posted a few information on my nib project in the past.

This week I have started production of 200 Beryllium Copper #9 nibs.

The blanks have been milled on my Pantograph milling machine.

Then the Beryllium Copper blanks were soft annealed at 650ºC for 1 hour.
The material has become very soft, ready to bend into shape on a set of tools I made.

Once bent, the nibs will be hardened (solution Annealing) at 760ºC for 40 minutes to reach a maximum hardness of around 50 Rockwell while a good stainless steel knife reaches +/- 60 Rockwell.

Finally the parts are relaxed (Age Hardening) at 300ºC for 2 to 3 hours to reach a maximum hardness of 50 Rockwell but best spring characteristics.
If a softer and more flexible nib is needed 260ºC for 4-6 Hours would do it.

Imagine, Beryllium Copper has better properties regarding durability and flexibility than any other metal alloy, and offers very high corrosion protection.

Think about: Beryllium Copper is made from 99% pure Copper and only 0.3% Beryllium. It's impressive how two metals in combination can change properties.

Have a great weekend

Best regards,

Martin

 

[duncsuss]

Thank you for sharing your progress!

Do you plan to add tipping to the point? I can't tell if you have already made the slit, I would expect that to be the last step.

 

[Curly]

I know that you are very thorough with your research and methods of work so I wanted to ask what if any precautions you take when working with this metal given it is a carcinogen?

Pete

 

[manupropria]

Thank you for your comments. tipping and slitting is the next step.
The nib weights 1 gr. and the portion of Beryllium is 0.3%, 0.0003 gr
Prescription drugs are probably far more carcinogen