Copper-based casting alloys are selected for corrosion resistance in water and seawater, bearing and sliding behaviour, electrical or thermal conductivity and appearance. Aluminium bronzes offer the highest strength, silicon bronze is a classic investment casting alloy with good fluidity, and tin-zinc alloys are used for fittings and bearings.
Grades in this family
| Grade | Type | UNS | Standard | Tensile strength Rm, min. (MPa) | Yield strength Rp0.2, min. (MPa) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C87300 | Silicon bronze | C87300 | ASTM B584 | 310 | 124 |
| C95400 | Aluminium bronze | C95400 | ASTM B148 | 515 | 205 |
| C95800 | Nickel-aluminium bronze | C95800 | ASTM B148 | 585 | 240 |
| C83600 | Leaded red brass (85-5-5-5) | C83600 | ASTM B584 | 205 | 95 |
Minimum values (or ranges) for separately cast test bars as specified in
Casting and processing considerations
Aluminium bronzes form tenacious oxide films, so turbulence-free filling is essential to avoid oxide inclusions. Leaded alloys are restricted in drinking-water and some regional applications; the applicable regulations should be checked before an alloy is specified. Listed strength values originate from sand-casting specifications and are indicative for investment castings.
Reference data compiled from the cited standards for orientation. Always work from the current edition of the governing specification; values are not a guaranteed LOSTWAX delivery specification.