Copper
is—together with its alloys—one of the most versatile metals
known to man. The ideal combination of its most valuable
qualities—conductivity, malleability, ductility, and
corrosion-resistance—make the metal perfect for use in a wide range
of applications. What’s more, these qualities can be further
enhanced when composition variations are infused into its
manufacturing process.
Two
of the most common copper alloys, bronze and brass, contain small
amounts of other alloy elements in order to modify the base metal’s
basic properties and enhance its durability, manipulability,
weld-ability, and creep resistance. Once other alloy elements are
introduced, copper will then be able to hold up to conditions that
its purest form cannot withstand.
Brass
Brass
is a copper alloy containing up to 45 percent zinc. Usually, trace
amounts of lead or tin is added into the mix, depending on the need
(lead is added for malleability, and tin for strength. Applications
of brass alloys include plugs and lamp fittings, radiator cores and
tanks, and electrical terminals.
Bronze
Bronze
is an alloy generally made of copper and tin and containing portions
of aluminum, manganese, nickel, phosphorous, and silicon. Bronze
metals are good for use in architectural fittings, springs, bearings,
and electrical connectors, contacts, and terminals.
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