Tin Bronze is a copper alloy in which tin is the primary alloying element, typically ranging between 8% and 12.5%. It is also sometimes referred to as phosphor bronze when small amounts of phosphorus are added to improve wear resistance, hardness, and fatigue resistance. Tin bronze is valued for its enhanced mechanical strength, improved corrosion resistance, low friction coefficient against steel, and excellent wear properties.
The history of tin bronze dates back to ancient times (around 3500 BC) when it was first used to make stronger, more castable copper alloys, marking the Bronze Age. Today, tin bronzes are widely used in applications such as gears, bushings, bearings, springs, and various mechanical components due to their combination of strength, ductility, and resilience to wear and corrosion.
Typical Composition
Copper: Approximately 87-90%
Tin: Around 8-12.5%
Phosphorus: Small amounts (0.01-0.45%) to enhance properties
Zinc, Lead, and other trace elements, depending on the specific grade
Notable Grades and Their Equivalents
UNS C90300: Classic tin bronze with about 8% tin, used for bushings, gears, and bearings.
UNS C90500: Tin bronze with roughly 10% tin and some lead for machinability.
EN 1982 CC491K or CC493K: European equivalents of tin bronze.
JIS C5191: Japanese standard for tin bronze alloys.
IS 318: Indian standard covering tin bronze grades.
Properties
High strength and hardness compared to pure copper.
Good wear resistance with low friction against steel.
Corrosion-resistant, particularly in marine and industrial environments.
Suitable for both cast and wrought forms.
Phosphorus addition improves casting quality and wear resistance.
Common Applications
Bearings and bushings
Gears and springs
Electrical connectors and terminals
Marine hardware
Valves and pumps
Tin bronze alloys offer a balance of mechanical strength, wear resistance, and corrosion protection, making them a versatile choice for many engineering applications.