Types of Bronze Alloy Mixtures
If you’re a jewelry maker, chances are you’ve heard of bronze alloys. Although bronze is made of copper and tin, several types of alloy mixtures can create different colors, textures, and looks. In this blog post, we will explore the various bronze alloy mixtures so that you can
Bronze Alloys
Bronze is an alloy of two base metals—copper and tin—and other trace elements such as silicon or aluminum. The ratio between copper and tin determines the alloy’s color, hardness, strength, malleability, and price. Copper typically makes up 80-90% of a bronze alloy, while the remaining 10-20% is usually made up of tin. It’s important to note that sometimes other metals like nickel or zinc may also be added in small amounts to alter the properties of the alloy.
Types Of Bronze Alloys
When it comes to bronze alloys, there are three main types: standard bronzes (also known as “mild bronzes”), high-strength bronzes (also known as “super bronzes”), and architectural bronzes (also known as “grand bronzes”). Standard bronzes contain around 8-10% tin, while high-strength bronzes contain around 12-17%, meaning they have a higher resistance to wear and tear than standard bronzes. Architectural bronzes contain around 14-17% tin but also have other elements like aluminum which give them a brassy color with very high corrosion resistance.
Using The Right Alloy For The Job
It’s important to use the right type of bronze alloy for each job because each one has its unique properties that will affect how it behaves in different applications. For example, if you need a highly durable alloy, then you should opt for one with higher levels of tin, like a high-strength or architectural bronze. On the other hand, if you need something malleable, you should go with one with lower levels of tin, like a standard bronze, since these tend to be softer and easier to work with.
Conclusion:
No matter what kind of project you are working on or what type of look you’re going for, understanding the different types of bronze alloys will help ensure that you get exactly what you need for your job. Standard bronzes offer malleability, while high-strength and architectural bronzes offer superior strength and resistance to corrosion, respectively — so make sure to research each type before making your purchase! Ultimately by understanding which type works best for your application, you can ensure that your masterpiece turns out just as beautifully as planned!
A passionate metal industry expert and blogger. With over 5 years of experience in the field, Palak brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to her writing. Whether discussing the latest trends in the metal industry or sharing tips, she is dedicated to helping others succeed in the metal industry.