Specific weight of bronze, its properties, classification and value table

Bronze is a multicomponent or binary alloy of copper and other elements, except zinc, which are added to improve the properties of the metal. Such elements, if they account for about 2.5 percent of the total mass, are classified as alloying components. These may include tin, lead, chromium, iron, manganese, beryllium, silicon, phosphorus, aluminum, and other similar elements.

Bronze is marked according to two parameters: letters indicate the alloy itself, while numbers indicate the content of alloying components. For example, BrA5 is an aluminum-type bronze, while BrO5 is a tin-type bronze.

Bronze is one of the oldest materials in the world. In ancient times, it was used to make various tools, weapons, and interior items.

Table of the specific weight of bronze

Since bronze is a complex material, it is not possible to calculate the specific weight of bronze independently in field conditions. These calculations are performed in specialized chemical laboratories. However, its average specific weight is known and falls within the range of 8.7 to 8.9 g/cm³.

Calculating the weight of bronze will be easier using the table below with values of specific weight and such a parameter as the weight of bronze depending on the units of measurement.

Table of bronze weight

Classification of bronze

Bronze is classified according to two criteria: technological and chemical.

According to the technological criterion, bronze is divided into two types:

• Wrought bronze. This is an excellent type of bronze for mechanical processing, such as forging, stamping, or corrugation. This type is distinguished by a low tin content, no more than 6 percent, which makes the original material very ductile.
• Cast bronze. This is a special type of bronze for shaped castings. It is used in the production of machine parts for operation in salt water, as well as for manufacturing gears and bearing liners.

According to the chemical criterion, bronze is divided into:

• Tin bronze. This type is a bronze alloy with tin as the main component, while phosphorus, lead, and zinc may also be used as additional impurities. Tin helps the material acquire elasticity, fusibility, and hardness, which is reflected well in the polishing process. Additional components are used to improve casting, mechanical, and antifriction properties.
• Special tin-free bronze. This type of bronze is an alloy made without using tin as a component. Compared with tin bronze, it is not inferior to it and in some cases even exceeds its performance.

Properties of bronze

Bronze is distinguished by high strength, corrosion resistance, and excellent antifriction properties. This type of material has increased resistance to salt water, air, acid solutions, and carbonated solutions. Bronze is well suited for soldering and welding with soft and hard solders.

The color of bronze depends on the type of alloying components in its composition and may vary from white to red. These components also affect the properties of the material:

• When nickel, tin, aluminum, and silicon are added, corrosion resistance, elasticity, and strength are improved
• When phosphorus, zinc, and lead are added, improved antifriction properties are added to the properties of the previous type
• When iron and nickel are added, a fine-grained recrystallization alloy is obtained
• When beryllium, zirconium, and chromium are added, heat resistance improves and electrical conductivity decreases