OTT1871
Applications
Casting, brass and copper alloy components, valves, water and wastewater systems, plumbing, hardware, and industrial fluid systems.
Target Problem
Improving the surface performance of copper alloys—such as resistance to corrosion, oxidation, and leaching, as well as hydrophobicity and machinability—often requires alloying the entire component with costly elements like bismuth. This through section approach significantly increases cost, even though only the surface typically requires modification.
Solution
UWM researchers have developed a low-cost surface alloying and compositing approach applied during casting that selectively enriches only the outer layer of copper alloy castings, using a proprietary slurry blend. This method delivers premium surface performance without the expense of modifying the entire cross section.
Key Benefits
- Significantly lower cost than through-section alloying
- Improved machinability
- Increased hydrophobicity (water repelling behavior)
- Enhanced corrosion, oxidation and leaching resistance
- Customizable surface properties through powder selection, layer thickness, and mold preparation
- Adaptable in conventional sand-casting facilities
- Proven results confirmed through optical microscopy, SEM, EDS, corrosion testing, and machining tests
About this Technology
This technology enriches the surface of copper alloys by applying a specially formulated slurry to the mold cavity or core surfaces during casting. As the metal solidifies, the near surface region becomes enriched with selected elements, such as nickel, and particles including graphite. By restricting alloying to the surface, manufacturers achieve enhanced performance at significantly lower cost, while maintaining compatibility with standard foundry workflows. Microscopy and spectroscopy confirm uniform near surface incorporation, with testing showing reduced corrosion rates and improved machinability through smaller chip formation.
Stage of Development
Initial prototype manufactured on industrial foundry floor and evaluated for corrosion and machining.
Partnering Opportunity
We seek partners in casting, plumbing hardware, water systems, and materials manufacturing to advance this technology toward commercialization, through licensing, co-development, and testing for specific product lines.
Intellectual Property (IP)
Patent pending. Protected and managed by the UWM Research Foundation.