UNS C65500, universally recognized as "High Silicon Bronze" or historically by the trade name Everdur, is the undisputed premier copper alloy for marine, architectural, and direct-burial environments. By alloying pure copper with approximately 3% Silicon and 1% Manganese, the metal undergoes significant solid-solution strengthening. This transforms a naturally soft metal into a high-strength fastener capable of matching the tensile yield thresholds of medium-carbon steel, all while maintaining the supreme corrosion resistance of pure copper.
Unlike stainless steel, which relies on a passive oxide layer and suffers severely from oxygen-starved "crevice corrosion" underwater, C65500 is inherently noble and stable in seawater, brine, and wastewater. Furthermore, its excellent weldability, stunning aesthetic patina, and totally non-magnetic nature make it the ultimate fastening solution for traditional wooden boat building, high-voltage substation grounding, and monumental architectural sculptures.
| Material Classification | High Silicon Bronze (Alloy 655) |
|---|---|
| UNS Designation | C65500 |
| Microstructure | Alpha Solid Solution |
| Magnetic State | Completely Non-Magnetic |
| Density | 8.53 g/cm³ (0.308 lb/in³) |
| Size Range | Metric: M3 to M36 | Imperial: #4 to 1-1/2" |
| Primary Attribute | Ultimate Marine Corrosion Resistance & Steel-Like Strength |
Contains detailed galvanic compatibility charts for wooden ship construction, direct-burial soil acidity limits for electrical grounding hardware, and precise welding recommendations for sculptural assemblies.
⬇ DOWNLOAD DATASHEETSilicon Bronze is highly trusted in mission-critical infrastructure where unseen failure (like underground grounding or underwater marine hardware) can be catastrophic. Ananka ensures every fastener lot is backed by rigorous, mill-level chemical traceability.
The C65500 specification is defined by the absence of Zinc or Tin as primary hardeners, relying almost entirely on a heavy injection of Silicon (Si). This metallurgical profile ensures the alloy is completely immune to dezincification while maintaining excellent hot-forging and cold-heading formability.
| Copper (Cu) | Silicon (Si) | Manganese (Mn) | Iron (Fe) | Zinc (Zn) | Lead (Pb) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balance (~95.8) | 2.80 – 3.80 | 0.50 – 1.30 | 0.80 Max | 1.50 Max | 0.05 Max |
| Mechanical Property | Typical Limits (Half-Hard to Hard Temper) |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 55,000 - 85,000 psi (380 - 585 MPa) |
| Yield Strength | 25,000 - 55,000 psi (170 - 380 MPa) |
| Elongation (in 2 inches) | 15% - 50% |
| Hardness (Rockwell B) | 70 - 90 HRB |
| Standard / System | Designation |
|---|---|
| ASTM Specifications | ASTM B98 (Rod, Bar), ASTM F467 / F468 (Fasteners) |
| Common Trade Names | High Silicon Bronze A, Everdur, Alloy 655 |
| European Equivalent | EN CW116C / CuSi3Mn1 (DIN 2.1560) |
| Military / Marine Std | MIL-B-994, AMS 4616 |
| Mating Bolts/Studs | Internal Threads (Nuts) | Washers |
|---|---|---|
| C65500 Silicon Bronze Hex Bolts | C65500 Finished & Heavy Hex Nuts | C65500 Flat & Lock Washers |
While C65500 exhibits steel-like tensile strength, it possesses a high coefficient of friction. When threading Silicon Bronze nuts onto Silicon Bronze bolts under high loads, severe thread galling (cold welding) can occur rapidly. Premium marine-grade anti-seize or Teflon-based lubricants are strictly mandatory during assembly.
| Nominal Diameter | Threads Per Inch (UNC) | Max Target Torque (in-lbs) | Max Target Torque (ft-lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/4" | 20 | 65 - 75 | ~ 6 |
| 3/8" | 16 | 220 - 240 | ~ 19 |
| 1/2" | 13 | 450 - 500 | ~ 40 |
| 3/4" | 10 | 1450 - 1600 | ~ 130 |
316 Stainless Steel relies on a microscopic chromium-oxide layer to prevent rust. To maintain this layer, the metal needs constant access to oxygen. In oxygen-starved environments (like deep underwater, buried in wet wood, or covered by marine growth), stainless steel experiences aggressive "crevice corrosion" and can rot from the inside out. Silicon Bronze is inherently noble; it does not need oxygen to resist saltwater, making it infinitely superior for submerged or buried hardware.
Everdur is the historic, proprietary trade name for High Silicon Bronze (specifically C65500). The formula was originally developed by the DuPont Company in the early 20th century, primarily for use in corrosive chemical vats. Due to its beautiful golden color, excellent weldability, and fluid casting properties, "Everdur" also became the material of choice for fine art foundries and architectural sculptors worldwide.
Yes, it is the industry standard for it. C65500 fasteners are incredibly resistant to soil acidity, moisture, and ground alkalis. Because they do not rust and maintain moderate electrical conductivity, they are mandated by building codes for securing grounding rods, lightning protection systems, and high-voltage grid grounding grids deep underground.