Beryllium Precipitation Mechanism

Copper beryllium is a hardenable material whose hardness comes from fine precipitates formed during controlled heating. When welding, you have to be careful not to ruin this heat treatment – if the alloy gets too hot or cools too slowly, it noticeably loses strength. Beryllium is toxic, so make sure you have proper extraction, especially when working hot, and don't let the fumes get into your breathing air. After welding, the part is usually solution annealed and aged again to restore its original properties.