Abstract: The present invention relates to a higher order beryllium-nickel alloy containing copper represented by the formula (0.4-1.50% Be)+(0<Cu.ltoreq.15%)+(0<Ti.ltoreq.0.6%)+(0<C.ltoreq.1.0%)+(0<Mg.ltoreq.0. 25%), the balance Ni, and an article constructed, at least in part, of the same. Such alloys are characterized by improved machinability with optimum combination of heat treatment response, hardness, magnetic behavior, ductility, strength and cost.

Abstract: A method for welding together members consisting of precipitation age hardened materials includes the steps of selecting a weld filler material that has substantially the same composition as the materials being joined, and an age hardening characteristic temperature age threshold below that of the aging kinetic temperature range of the materials being joined, whereby after welding the members together, the resulting weld and heat affected zone (HAZ) are heat treated at a temperature below that of the kinetic temperature range of the materials joined, for obtaining substantially the same mechanical characteristics for the weld and HAZ, as for the parent material of the members joined.

Abstract: This invention relates to a composition of a region joining two members treated thermodynamically by a process set forth by the present invention. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a region comprising a solidified bead containing generally between 1.6 and 2.0% beryllium, a melt and mix zone containing generally between 0.6 and 1.8% beryllium, a recrystallized zone containing generally between 0.6 and 1.0% beryllium, and an overaged zone containing generally between 0.3 and 0.8% beryllium.

Abstract: This invention relates to a process for thermodynamically treating a region joining two members. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, are the steps of heating the region to a first temperature generally within a range of 750.degree. F. and 850.degree. F. so as to diffuse a strengthening material in the region into a heat affected zone between the members; maintaining the first temperature for a first selected time within a range of 3 to 20 hours so as to raise the percentage of strengthening material diffusing into the heat affected zone; heating the region to a second temperature generally within a range of 900.degree. F. to 1000.degree. F. so as to initiate hardening of the heat affected zone; maintaining the second temperature for a second selected time generally within a range of 0.5 to 5 hours so as to harden the heat affected zone with minimal decrease in hardening of regions outside the heat affected zone; and cooling the region to room temperature.