Metals Strength vs. Temperature
The influence of temperature on the strength of metals.
The diagram below indicates the influence of temperature on the strength of
- bronze
- copper
- structural steel
- castings steel
- cast iron
- wrought iron
- stainless steel (304N)
Strength of Metals - SI Units
Strength of Metals - Imperial Units
Most ferrous metals have their maximal strength at about 200 oC (400 oF). Modulus of elasticity decreases gradually with increased temperature until it rapidly falls off.
Example - Strength of Copper at 100 oC
As indicated in the first figure - the strength of copper is reduced to approximately
95 % at 100 oC
With an Ultimate Tensile Strength - σu - of 220 MPa for copper - the strength is reduced to
0.95 (220 MPa)
= 209 MPa
