Bronze is a nonferrous metal alloy. Its primary component is copper (Cu), responsible for giving it a dullish gold appearance. Typically, tin (Sn) comprises the second major addition. However, depending upon the bronze suppliers, the other ingredients may be:
* Aluminum (Al)
* Arsenic (As)
* Lead (Pb)
* Manganese (Mn)
* Phosphorus ( P)
* Silicon (Si)
* Zinc (Zn)
“True” bronze combines approximately 90% copper with 10% tin, the percentages of the additional metals and even those of the two basic components do vary and will affect the specific properties of the final product. As a result, it is sometimes necessary to prefer one specific bronze composition to the other. It will depend upon the intended application of the bronze.
Applications
Bronze has many applications in industry, marine construction, and the arts. It is a popular metal. Its properties of rust resistance, Common uses for bronze are:
* Bearings
* Bushings
* Chemical hardware
* Gears
* Medals and Medallions
* Musical instruments
* Pipe fittings
* Pump impellers
* Sculptures
* Valve components
* Wire brushes
In choosing bronze for such applications, companies rely on bronze suppliers to have in stock or at least readily available, various bronze shapes.
Commonly Available Shapes
When purchasing from a supplier, it is possible to obtain bronze in a variety of bar stock. Various shapes include:
* Round bars
* Rectangular bars
* Square bars
* Hollow bars
* Sheets
* Plate
Be sure you know exactly what shape, dimensions and specific type of bronze you and your company require before talking to a reputable bronze supplier.
Bronze Suppliers
If you are in the market for bronze, make sure you do your research first. Before you purchase and form of bronze stock, talk to your colleagues. Learn as much as possible about the quality of the product as well as the abilities of the bronze suppliers to deliver what you want when you need it. With this information in hand, you can make an informed decision.