Bronze

Bronze

Bronze, a copper alloy primarily containing tin and copper, is one of the most common copper alloys. The two main types of copper alloys are copper primary alloys and copper-bearing alloys. Bronze is a type of copper primary alloy because it contains a large amount of copper. In some cases, lead, zinc, silver, and other metals can be added to make special-purpose bronzes. Bronze is one of the most common materials used to make bearings.

Bronze alloys are non-ferrous metals that offer good corrosion resistance and strength. They are also good conductors of electric and heat. In comparison to copper alone, bronze is harder, more readily melted, and easier to cast. Bronze is also stronger and harder than iron and brass.

Many varieties of bronze are available to suit a wide variety of purposes. Aluminum bronze, which offers high strength and resistance to corrosion, is used to make bearings, valves, and machine components. Silicon bronze is used for telegraph wires and chemical containers, whereas phosphor bronze is used to make springs. Leaded bronze, a very strong type of bronze, is used in heavy-duty bushings and bearings. Bronze can also be used to cast bells. Other items that contain bronze include gunmetal, coins, castings, engravings, forgings, steam and water fittings, electrical connectors, gears, valves, and more.

Bronze Image Provided by Commercial Metal Exchange