ENGINEERING MATERIAL

Bronze Alloys

A classic material renowned for its excellent wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal. Bronze alloys are a top choice for bearings, bushings, marine hardware, and decorative components.

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A precision machined part, similar to components often made from bronze alloys

Copper-Tin Alloys: History Meets Performance

Bronze is an alloy primarily composed of copper, usually with tin as the main additive, but can also include other elements like aluminum, manganese, or phosphorus. Historically, it was the first true alloy created by humans, marking the Bronze Age. Today, it remains an essential engineering material due to its unique combination of properties.

Excellent Wear Resistance

Bronze is very durable and resistant to wear, especially from sliding friction, making it ideal for bearings and bushings.

Good Corrosion Resistance

It resists corrosion from water and many chemicals, particularly in marine environments, though it will form a protective patina.

High Strength & Ductility

Offers a good balance of strength and toughness, allowing it to withstand significant loads while also being formable.

Common Bronze Grades & Manufacturing Processes

Common Grades We Work With

C93200 (SAE 660, Bearing Bronze): A very common leaded tin bronze, prized for its excellent machinability and superior wear properties. Ideal for general-purpose bearings, bushings, and washers.
C95400 (Aluminum Bronze): A high-strength aluminum bronze alloy that offers superior wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and retains strength at higher temperatures. Often used for heavy-duty gears, valve components, and marine hardware.
C95500 (Nickel Aluminum Bronze): An even stronger and tougher aluminum bronze, with added nickel for enhanced corrosion resistance and strength. Used in critical marine and aerospace applications.

A precision machined metal part, similar to components made from bronze

Manufacturing Processes for Bronze

CNC Machining: We precision machine bronze alloys from bar stock or castings. Grades like C93200 are exceptionally easy to machine, while aluminum bronzes are more challenging due to their toughness.
Casting: Many bronze alloys are excellent for sand casting and investment casting. This is ideal for producing complex shapes that would be expensive to machine from solid stock, such as valve bodies and pump impellers.

A complex fluidic component, often cast in bronze for its wear and corrosion resistance

Bronze Alloys FAQ

Will bronze tarnish?

Yes, bronze will naturally tarnish and develop a brownish-green patina over time when exposed to air and moisture. This patina is often desired for its aesthetic appeal. For applications where a bright finish is required, polishing and a clear protective coating can be applied.

Is bronze good for marine applications?

Yes, certain bronze alloys, especially aluminum bronzes (C95400, C95500), offer excellent corrosion resistance in marine environments, including saltwater. They are often used for propellers, marine fittings, and pump components.