aluminiumbronze

Aluminium bronze is a family of copper–aluminium alloys in which aluminium is the principal alloying element, typically in the range of about 5 to 12 percent, with copper as the balance. Small additions of iron, nickel, or silicon are sometimes used to adjust strength, hardness, and corrosion resistance. The alloy can be produced in cast or wrought forms and is valued for a combination of high strength, excellent wear resistance, and outstanding corrosion resistance, especially in seawater and other aggressive environments.

Properties of aluminium bronze include high strength and hardness, good fatigue resistance, and superior bearing and wear performance. It forms a protective oxide layer that enhances corrosion resistance, and its performance in marine and cavitating conditions is notably favorable. The alloys are generally tougher and more wear-resistant than many other copper alloys, though their machinability is moderate to challenging, and they can be more brittle in certain temper conditions. Aluminium bronzes are often heat-treatable through aging, which increases strength by precipitating aluminium-rich phases.

Processing and heat treatment typically involve hot working for wrought forms, and casting for cast varieties such as those used in marine propellers and valve components. Cast aluminium bronzes are common for large components where high strength and corrosion resistance are required, while wrought forms are used for bearings and gears. Heat treatment usually includes a solution treatment followed by aging to attain maximum strength.

Applications include marine propellers, gears, bearings, valve seats, and other components subjected to demanding wear and corrosion environments. The combination of strength, wear resistance, and seawater durability makes aluminium bronze a preferred material in naval, industrial, and marine engineering.