What is DEF STAN 02-834?
DEF STAN 02-834 is a UK Defence Standard for an aluminium silicon bronze, CuAl6Si2Fe, which has excellent corrosion properties and can be manufactured with low magnetic permeability. It supersedes NES 834 Part 2, which in turn has been superseded by DEF STAN 02-879 Part 2. It is a single phase ductile alloy used mainly for mine hunters and weapon handling systems.
Should you specify DEF STAN 02-834?
Specify DEF STAN 02-834 when the governing requirement is magnetic signature rather than raw strength. This alloy can be manufactured with a relative magnetic permeability as low as 1.005, which is why it is the naval choice for mine countermeasures vessels.
It is important to understand that this is a silicon aluminium bronze, not a nickel aluminium bronze. It is a different alloy family from DEF STAN 02-833, C63200, C63000 and CW307G, with lower strength (typical 550 N/mm² tensile) but considerably more ductility at 23 % elongation.
Do not substitute a nickel aluminium bronze into a 02-834 application on the assumption that stronger is better. The nickel-bearing grades have a higher relative magnetic permeability, typically around 1.5, which defeats the point of the specification.
Watch the standards lineage on the drawing. 02-834 supersedes NES 834 Part 2, and has itself been superseded by DEF STAN 02-879 Part 2, so check which revision your customer's quality clause actually calls up.
Best for mine hunter and weapon handling components where low magnetic permeability and good corrosion resistance outrank peak strength.
DEF STAN 02-834 quick reference
Typical, indicative values as published by Copper Alloys Ltd. Typical values are not specification limits, and vary with product form, section size and temper.
| Alloy type | Wrought - Wrought silicon aluminium bronze |
|---|---|
| Nominal composition | CuAl6Si2Fe |
| Tensile strength (typical) | 550 N/mm² |
| Proof / yield strength (typical) | 250 N/mm² |
| Elongation (typical) | 23 % |
| Hardness (typical) | 120 HB |
| Izod impact (typical) | Not published |
DEF STAN 02-834 typical physical properties
Key features of DEF STAN 02-834
- A single phase ductile silicon aluminium bronze with excellent corrosion resistance and low magnetic permeability.
- Can be manufactured with a relative magnetic permeability of 1.005.
- Supersedes NES 834 Part 2, which in turn has been superseded by DEF STAN 02-879 Part 2.
DEF STAN 02-834 applications
Marine and naval defence
- Mine hunter components
- Applications requiring low magnetic permeability and good corrosion resistance
- Weapon handling systems
DEF STAN 02-834 equivalent specifications
Frequently asked questions
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Information provided is for reference only
The composition, mechanical and physical figures on this page are typical, indicative values compiled from published Copper Alloys Ltd datasheets to aid early-stage material selection. They are not specification limits and are not engineering, procurement, safety, regulatory or design advice.
Before specifying, purchasing or using any material, confirm the requirements against the current controlled version of the relevant standard and obtain a certified material test report and written technical confirmation from Copper Alloys Ltd or another qualified foundry.