Copper-based alloy having a high electrical conductivity and a high softening temperature for application in electronics

A method for forming supports used in electronic components, said method comprising:

• melting and casting a plate of a copper-based alloy comprising copper, from 0.1 to 1% by weight nickel, and from 0.005 to 0.1% by weight phosphorus, the alloy including fine precipitates of nickel phosphides throughout the copper matrix;
• subjecting said alloy to a series of deformation operations, the deformation operations including:
• rolling and intermediate annealing of said plate at an annealing temperature of 400 to 600.degree. C., said annealing temperature being maintained for two to four hours, to thereby maximize production of the fine precipitates of nickel phosphides within the alloy;
• coating the plate with a layer of nickel;
• cutting a support of a desired shape and size from the plate;
• bringing an electronic component into contact with the support;
• fixing the electronic component to the support by one of soldering, brazing, adhesive bonding and crimping;
• and
• hot coating the component with plastic material.