[modeleng] Gunmetal / bronze

There are several grades of both Gunmetal and Phospher bronze.

One typical gunmetal contains, Cu85 Sn5 Zn5 Pb5: and a typical bronze 
contains, 89% Copper, 10.5% Tin and >0.5% phosphorous, although in both 
cases, there are many variations.



A summary of the uses:
Phosphor bronze Pb1, Pb2, Pb3
Generally used for bearings, gear wheels, springs and general 
coppersmithing.

Leaded phosphor bronze Lpb1
This being a leaded phosphor bronze it is suitable for a wide range of 
bearings. It can also be used for valves, high-pressure steam fittings, 
general duty bushes.

Gunmetal G1
A composition with good resistance to corrosion, which is also standard 
admiralty gunmetal. It can be used for high load, low speed bearings, 
high-pressure pipefittings, and also a certain amount of hydraulic castings.

Leaded Gunmetal LG2
A material with excellent machining characteristics, good casting qualities 
and moderate strength. Particularly suitable where pressure tightness is 
required.

Leaded Gunmetal LG4
When cast is not so sensitive to changes in section as LG2 and is also 
suitable where thick wall sections are incorporated. Is often used for 
high-pressure valves where liquid oxygen and nitrogen are present. Hydraulic 
pressure and centrifugal pump castings.

Aluminium Bronze AB2
Has excellent bio fouling resistance and corrosion resistance. Used for acid 
resisting pump parts and marine use.

As an aside, the lead in leaded bronze/gunmetal appears to have no effect 
upon silver soldering the material in question.

Alan Stepney

http://www.alanstepney.info
Model Engineering & steam engine information pages 

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