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Bearing Bronze | Know Everything Technical Aspect in Detail

johnmiller3413 February 9, 2021

Bronze metal alloys are increasingly drawing the attention of industrial manufacturers. From the ancient Sumerian civilization of around 3500 B.C to the present time, this metal is showing its significance in various applications. Currently, it is among the primary preferences because of the following reasons:- 

  • Excellent conductivity for heat and electricity
  • Corrosion resistance 
  • Fatigue resistance
  • High dimensional precision
  • Exceptional surface finishing
  • Cost-efficient 

You will find bronze metal of different quality standards that vary on the basis of zinc, nickel, manganese, copper and tin metal percentages. Here we are talking about its special grade called bearing bronze. As the name is illustrating, this metal alloy is specifically meant for manufacturing bearings. Let’s elaborate on all the important facts of this alloy in detail. 

List of Physical Compositions in a Bearing Bronze Alloy 

  • Copper 
  • Lead 
  • Tin 
  • Zinc
  • Phosphorous
  • Nickle 
  • Antimony
  • Iron
  • Sulfur 
  • Aluminum 
  • Silicon

Among these 11 materials, copper, lead and tin are the main elements occupying more than 90% of the total materials collectively. Bearing bronze alloy is known for its excellent surface finishing in copper-gold color. 

Mechanical properties 

While talking about the mechanical properties of bearing bronze alloy, we will consider five major factors including:- 

  1. Tensile yield strength 

The strength of a metal to return back into its original form is considered as tensile yield strength. While exerting continuous stress, a point comes when it starts deforming permanently. The bronze bearing alloy has a tensile strength of 18100 psi which can be considered in the medium category. Due to the medium strength, this metal alloy is recommended for light-duty applications only. 

  1. Modulus of Elasticity

The tensile yield strength also gives a hint of modulus of elasticity in the metal. It represents the internal strength of atoms bonding. High modulus elasticity represents its consistency under high stress. As compared to other bronze alloys, it comprises less elasticity. The modulus elasticity of bearing bronze is 14500 ksi. 

  1. Fatigue Strength

Repeated load on a metal results in micro and macro fractures that reduces its yield strength below the average point. Cyclic loading frequently occurs on the bearings. Therefore, fatigue strength should be exceptional. Despite medium tensile strength, bearing bronze has a good fatigue strength of up to 16000 psi. 

  1. Hardness 

Here we are talking about the Brinell intender test results of a metal. As compared to the Brinell hardness level of pure bronze (89), bearing bronze has a lower (65) score. It is a soft alloy that can get scratches easily. In order to tackle the surface deformation, bearings made with this metal need adequate self-lubricating features. 

  1. Machinability

Machinability of metal is represented by the ease of operations like milling, turning, and drilling on it. High machinability between 70-80% makes it an ideal material for bearings manufacturing. Lead is the main element that helps in increasing the machinability of this bronze alloy to such a great level. 

If you are looking for metal with good fatigue strength and machinability, consider bearing bronze as a perfect choice. 

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