Thermal Conductivity

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Thermal Conductivity

The thermal conductivity of a metal or alloy refers to the rate at which heat flows within the material. Alloying elements usually have a significant effect on the value of thermal conductivity. Thermal conductivity is expressed in W/m K. Copper has a thermal conductivity of 393 W/m K, whereas steels have thermal conductivities between 15 to 52 W/m K.

In metals of high thermal conductivity, such as copper and aluminum, heat is conducted away quickly during plastic deformation. In materials of lower thermal conductivity, such as steel and lead, high thermal gradients can result during plastic deformation, causing non-uniform deformation.