Bronze and Copper: From Crafts to Industries

Some metals and alloys are so versatile that you can see them being used in various industries. Bronze, for example, has been one of the go-to metals for artisans creating sculptures and statues. This is largely due to the fact that bronze can be tempered to any shape while retaining its durability and strength. Unlike other metals, heated bronze bars expand very slowly, making them ideal for sculpting and retaining fine details. When the metal hardens, the details become more pronounced and permanent.

Another favorite metal of artists and craft makers is copper, of which bronze is an alloy. A trusted copper sheet supplier like Rotax Metals offers this material in various thicknesses, which makes it ideal in many arts and crafts applications, from something as solid as sculptures, to flatter art pieces like wall decors. Copper and bronze are also used in mixed media artworks.

One characteristic that makes copper and bronze attractive to artists is patination, which changes their color over time to achieve an antique look. While patination happens naturally, the process is hastened up by some artists with the use of acids and similar chemicals.

The versatility of copper and its alloys, including bronze, makes them highly sought after materials in various applications outside of the arts, including in architecture, fixtures, and fittings. They can also be found in industrial uses, such as bearings, electronic connectors, and casting or molding of various products.