How to Clean Sintered Bronze

There are many different types of metal used across many different applications. 

Some types are made directly of metal whereas others may go through a fabrication or manufacturing process to reach their final state. Sintered bronze is the latter. 

Made of powdered metal, this type of bronze is often found in automobiles, home appliances, and, quite commonly, as bushings and bearings for all types of applications. 

Bronze itself is known to have a long lifespan. The same is true for sintered bronze. So to keep it looking and functioning optimally, you will want to clean it. This article will explain the best way to do that. 

What is Sintered Bronze? 

Sintered bronze is created using a process of fusing metal powders by heating and compacting them. The result is a solid, yet porous, piece of metal that is hard, strong, and very resistant to wear and tear over time. 

You will often find sintered bronze in applications that require specific complex shapes because the exact molds can be used in the powder metallurgy process to yield perfect results. 

Caring for your sintered bronze parts will ensure they deliver the best performance. 

Benefits of Cleaning Sintered Bronze

There are a few benefits to cleaning sintered bronze routinely, such as to: 

• Prevent damage to equipment

• Maintain a high level of production

• Extend the life of your part and your application

• Maintain the right amount of safety

When maintained, sintered bronze can continue to function optimally for a long time — reducing the need for unnecessary expenses. 

Cleaning Sintered Bronze

Thanks to their incredible qualities and longevity, sintered bronze is going to be around for a while — and that means it will need to be cleaned properly. Due to their porous nature, you cannot simply clean the outside of the metal as you are only doing half the job. 

Dirt, debris, and other particles can build up within the metal and contaminate it. Therefore, the most effective method for cleaning sintered bronze is to use ultrasonic cleaning. This involves placing your metal parts in a cleaning solution and using high-frequency sound waves to clean out all the unwanted junk inside the metal. 

Keep in mind that if you do not have access to an ultrasonic cleaner, simply wiping down the sintered bronze with a cleaning solution, rinsing, and then patting dry with a soft cloth can get the job done as well as possible — and is better than not cleaning it at all. 

What type of cleaning solution do you use? Equal parts of warm water and white vinegar work well for ultrasonic cleaning. However, soapy water works well for cleaning the outside of the metal. 

Self-Lubricating Sintered Bronze

Many sintered bronze applications use self-lubricating parts. This is often because the powdered metal is porous enough to hold oil and continuously lubricate on its own. If you find that your cleaning process has left your metal dry, you can always add the oil or grease of your choice. 

For most applications, oil works well. For heavy-duty applications, grease may be a better-suited option. Whichever you choose, simply apply it evenly to the surface.

Find Sintered Bronze at Atlas Bronze

At Atlas Bronze, we offer all types of metals to meet the needs of our customers and their projects — including sintered bronze. We can help you find what you are looking for and answer any questions you may have along the way. 

Contact us today. 

An Insight into the Bronze Recycling Process and Its Benefits

Bronze is a commonly used alloy today. While it has been generally made from copper and about 10 to 12% tin, the latter may be replaced with metals like zinc, aluminum, or manganese. It is corrosion-resistant with high tensile strength and great machinability. It is also more affordable too. 

Bronze may be used as the ideal metal for bearings, architectural design, tools, pipes and plumbing, clocks and watches, musical instruments, and more — but what happens when this metal is no longer needed? Can bronze be recycled? What are the benefits of doing so? Let’s take a closer look. 

The Bronze Recycling Process

Bronze can be 100% recycled to create a new, high-quality metal that can be used to create new, high-quality products. Below is an overview of the process. 

• Collection

• Sorting

• Shredding

• Melting

• Purifying

• Solidifying

The metal is first collected by a reputable metal recycling facility. This is often thanks to individuals and businesses dropping off metals, including bronze, that they no longer need rather than just throwing them away. 

The bronze will be sorted from all other metals and will be processed through machinery that will squish it together and then cut it into smaller, more workable sizes before being shredded. 

Getting the bronze into these small pieces makes it much easier to melt it — which is the next step in the process. With the help of a large furnace, the bronze is melted down using the right amount of heat. The time it takes to do this will vary based on the size of the material. 

Next up is the purification process. There are different ways of doing this and each recycling facility will have its own method. The idea behind it is to purify the metal, removing any contaminants so the new products get the purest form of the alloy. 

 

Once again, it is returned to its solid state and sold off to manufacturing companies or dealers to be reused again. 

Benefits of Bronze Recycling

• Reduce our usage of raw materials

• Reduce the cost of production

• Reduce the amount of energy used in the process

There are many benefits to recycling bronze — as well as metal in general. For instance, by re-using the raw material it reduces our consumption of this finite resource as it is needed for new products. This eco-friendly way of doing things also reduces the amount of metals we are extracting from natural land areas.  

What’s more, the cost of production will then be minimized and the energy used to get through the process will be reduced, too. This means that bronze recycling can significantly lower the overall environmental impact of the manufacturing process. 

What Happens if Bronze is Not Recycled? 

Now that you understand the importance of recycling bronze, what is the danger if you don’t? Should you even be concerned? 

By choosing not to recycle your bronze, you are wasting a very valuable resource — a finite resource. Remember, a bronze alloy is made up of more than one metal. That means you are risking the loss of each of the metals and the waste of energy used to extract them. 

Perhaps the biggest concern of not recycling bronze is the impact it will have on climate change in the years ahead. 

Where Can Bronze Be Recycled? 

Bronze can be recycled nearly everywhere. Search for local recycling areas or scrap metal locations within your community. Many will not only allow you to easily and conveniently drop off your bronze for recycling, but they will usually pay you for doing so. 

Getting paid to do something good makes it even more worthwhile. 

Learn More About Bronze From Atlas Bronze

If you want to learn more about bronze, then you need to go to the bronze experts. Whether you are looking to purchase bronze or any other metal alloy for your project, Atlas Bronze has just what you need. 

Contact us today at (800) 478-0887. Or shop online.

A Guide to Understanding Bronze Alloys and Their Applications

Bronze is a timeless metal alloy that has left its mark throughout history. It has been used in the creation of tools, machines, weapons, art, technology, and so much more. And it is still a huge part of our world today. 

The thing about bronze, however, is that it comes in many different compositions. While it is primarily copper and tin, other metals can be included in it, creating a new set of unique properties. 

Its ability to adapt in so many situations is perhaps why it is such a widely-sought metal yesterday and today. 

Here is a closer look at bronze alloys and where you can find them. 

Why Bronze? 

There are many reasons why bronze can be found in so many different applications from artwork to technology and so much more — such as marine, antimicrobial, and industrial applications. Bronze is often used as component parts like bearings and bushings, gears, gibs, nuts, piston rings, pins, and fasteners. 

It is its incredible properties that make it shine, including: 

• Strength. Bronze does well under heavy and harsh conditions. This makes it a great option for applications that require durability. 

• Hardness. Its high hardness level means it maintains a long lifespan without needing to be replaced due to wear and tear. 

• Melting Point. Bronze has a high melting point making it perfect for high-heat situations. 

• Ductility. With a high ductility, it can be manipulated to create any type of shape for any form of artistic expression, architecture, or any other application. 

• Conductivity. Bronze has a high thermal conductivity. 

• Corrosion-Resistance. This metal alloy is very resistant to corrosion, even when placed in salt water. It’s no surprise that it often finds its place in marine applications. 

Types of Bronze Alloys

While bronze is a metal alloy that has a composition of mostly copper and tin, various other elements are often added to the mix to create different properties. A few common bronze alloys are: 

• Aluminum bronze

• Manganese bronze

• Silicon bronze

• Phosphor bronze

• Nickel silver

Let’s take a closer look at each.                                 

Aluminum Bronze

Copper, tin, and aluminum create the alloy aluminum bronze. It is even more strong and corrosion- and tarnish-resistant than regular bronze. It is often used in water due to its capabilities, especially in marine applications, water pumps, and the oil industry. It is also a great option for gears, bearings, propellers, valves, and the like. 

Manganese Bronze

By adding manganese to bronze, it is very resistant to corrosion which is why it is one of the most ideal options for saltwater applications like boat propellers. This alloy is shock-resistant and is less likely to break than it is to deform. Many heavy-duty applications make use of manganese bronze, such as gears, valves, fittings, shafts, brackets, and more. 

Silicon Bronze

Another type of bronze, silicon bronze has a composition of copper, zinc, and silicon. It is strong and corrosion-resistant while remaining aesthetically pleasing. What’s more is that it is self-lubricating, too. This alloy is often used for bushings, bearings, valves, and pumps in various applications.  

Phosphor Bronze

This bronze is a combination of copper, tin, and phosphorus. The addition of the latter boosts its hardness, making it less likely to succumb to wear and tear. It is a popular option for electrical applications, such as connectors, as well as springs, washers, and bellows.  

Nickel Silver

While its name doesn’t specify bronze, nickel silver is still a bronze. It is made up of copper, tin, and, of course, nickel. This gives it a silver color, hence its name. You can find nickel silver used in all types of applications, including zippers and keys, musical instruments, heating coils, and even silverware. It is also commonly used as valves, fittings, and rings in turbines. 

Need a Bronze Alloy For Your Application? 

Atlas Bronze offers many different bronze alloys to meet the needs of your application. If you aren’t sure what would be the best option or you have questions, contact us today. Our knowledgeable and experienced staff will help you find exactly what you need. 

What Oil Is Best For Bronze Bushings?

 

Choosing the right bushing for your application is so important. After all, everything you do going forward will rest on the fact that you chose the perfect part. This means making sure that your bushing is made of the most ideal metal and that it is just the right size, too. But did you know that selecting the right bushing is only half the battle? For your bronze bushing to continue to be effective in your application, it has to be properly cared for and maintained. And this means ensuring that they are properly lubricated.

The Importance of Lubricating Bronze Bushings

Bushings are components that are designed to reduce the friction between two surfaces — and bronze is one of the best metals to do this. Bronze bushings are strong and can maintain their shape even after heavy use. They even work well at high temperatures without deforming or breaking. This is why you will find them in all types of applications across many different industries. Lubricating them, however, is necessary for the bushings to continue to operate optimally. They are dependent on this to work effectively as the lubrication:

• Prevents corrosion
• Reduces friction
• Improves overall function
• Minimizes wear
  

Without it, you will find that your bushings are not functioning as intended. They will begin to wear down — and may even become damaged. This will reduce their performance and may even cause the application to fail, leaving you with a costly situation.

How to Lubricate Bronze Bushings

Many turn to oil to lubricate their bronze bushings while many others insist on using grease. Both are effective options for keeping the bushing lubricated. It is up to you to choose the best option for your application based on the load, speed, and temperature. For many everyday uses, any light machine oil should work. However, for heavy-duty applications, sometimes grease is the best option. To effectively lubricate your bronze bushing, you will want to apply it evenly to the surface, ensuring that all areas are covered.

When Should You Lubricate Bronze Bushings?

Regular inspection of your bushings is important for maintaining them. Any signs of wear should be addressed before it leads to a bigger issue. The frequency at which you should lubricate your bronze bushing will depend on the application. Those who see heavier use will require attention more frequently — and this is why routine inspections are so important.

Oil-Impregnated Bronze Bushings

Self-lubricating bronze bushings may be a better solution for those who are not interested in this part of maintenance. Known as oil-impregnated bushings, the oil is infused into the metal. Then, as it works, the oil comes through the pores and coats the surface for optimal function. No further lubrication is necessary. Many find these to be an ideal solution.

Find Bronze Bushings at Atlas Bronze

If bronze bushings are a good fit for your application, then knowing where to find them is key. At Atlas Bronze, we offer a long list of bushings that can provide you with the perfect fit. To learn more about them or if you aren’t sure about what you need, our team of experts is here for you. Contact us today at (800) 478-0887.

Applications of Copper in Modern Electronics: A Comprehensive Review

If you look around, you may not see copper everywhere — but it is there. Thanks to its versatility and recyclability, it is one of the most widely sought and used metals. Many even agree that without copper, we wouldn’t likely have the advanced technology that we have today. From computers and mobile phones to televisions and electric cars, so much relies on this metal. Keep reading to gain a greater appreciation of copper and how it is used in the modern electronics we use every day.

Where Can You Find Copper?

You can find copper in just about anything, including:

• Renewable energy creation
• Kitchen appliances
• Architecture
• Marine environments
• Water storage (copper is antimicrobial)
• Wire and cables for telecommunications

In electronics, copper plays a large role in the creation of electric cars (electric motors), computers, appliances, amplifiers and radios, personal electronic devices, cell phones, batteries, and so much more. Copper is used in advanced technology in many forms, such as:

• Electronic connectors
• Microchips
• Circuit boards
• Wiring and cables
• Semiconductors
• Heat sinks

And more.

Why Copper Excels in Modern Electronics

Copper has traits that set it apart from many other metals, making it a better-suited choice when it comes to electronic applications. Here is a closer look at its properties.

Electrical Conductivity

Copper has one of the highest levels of electrical conductivity – even when paired against other popular metals used in electronics. This makes it very effective in thoroughly transmitting electrical signals. It’s no surprise that you will find copper used in important applications, such as cables that transmit high-speed data throughout communities.

Thermal Conductivity

In many electronic applications, keeping heat at bay is crucial to prevent overheating, damage, or degrading operation. The use of copper in computer systems and electric cars, for example, has been a game changer. It allows electronics to continue to be used without any ill effects caused by heat.

Resistance to Corrosion

Copper does not corrode. This alone makes it a great choice for many modern applications, but even more so due to its plethora of advantages. When used in less-than-ideal applications, such as transmission wires or those in harsh elements, they continue to work without fail. Keep in mind that this is without any additional coatings for protection.

Malleability

To be used in modern electronics, copper has to adapt to any situation — while keeping its great list of characteristics intact. This metal can easily be used in so many applications because it is highly malleable. Copper can meet demanding circuit patterns and can be bent or twisted over and over without losing its qualities. Items we use every day, including cell phones, are made with copper. Yet we can always depend on them to work just as intended every time we pick it up. And, if we are being realistic, most of us use our cell phones a lot.

Sustainability and Recyclability

Copper can easily be recycled at most recycling facilities throughout the country. This makes it a very eco-friendly option when it comes to choosing a metal for manufacturing. What’s more, the process to recycle copper uses very little energy and produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions. By recycling copper, less will need to be gained through natural sources, reducing your carbon footprint and overall impact on the environment.

Need Copper For Your Application?

Don’t be fooled by our name — at Atlas Bronze, we have the copper you need for your project. And many other metals, too. Contact us today at (800) 478-0887 and speak to our knowledgeable team. Let us help you find the perfect fit.

 

How To Measure Bronze Bushings

Bronze bushings are resistant to corrosion and friction and are a long-lasting solution that won’t lose its shape over time. However, to reap all of these benefits and more, you are going to have to invest in bushings that are the right fit. 

Installing the wrong size bushing can be detrimental to your application. And, ordering the wrong size can halt production. Reduce your risk by knowing how to measure bronze bushings properly.  

Common Applications for Bronze Bushings

Bronze bushings can be found in all sorts of applications due to their many advantages – and their ease of use. This makes them a great solution for hydraulic cylinders, bicycles, surveillance systems, printer rollers, escalators, kitchen appliances, medical and dental tools, ATMs, engines, and so much more. 

If you believe that bronze bushings are the perfect fit for your project or if you currently have bushings you need to replace with bronze, how can you tell what size you need? How are bronze bushings measured? 

Measuring Bronze Bushings

Measuring bushings can be a bit confusing. Do you measure the interior ring or the exterior ring? And what happens if it is a flange bushing with an additional area to measure — does it count?

If you need to order bronze bushings, then you are going to need their precise size to ensure an accurate fit. That means you need to know how to properly measure it. So, let’s break it down. 

The inner diameter of a bronze bushing, generally referred to as ID, is measured from side to side using the inside walls. The outdoor diameter, or OD, is a measurement of the outer walls, straight across from the outside of each side. 

The overall length (OAL) of a bronze bushing refers to the length of the part from bottom to top when sitting flat on a surface. 

When it comes to flange bronze bushings, additional measurements are needed including the outer diameter and the thickness of the flange itself. These are referred to as the flange outer diameter (FLOD) and the flange thickness (FLTH), respectively. 

The unit of measurement for bronze bushings is inches. And they are referred to as “-ths of an inch.” Except, of course, the interior diameter or ID which is clearly broken down into four decimal points for precision purposes. 

When ordering your new bronze bushings you would use the sequence of ID, OD, OAL, and, if applicable, FLOD and FLTH. 

What Size Bronze Bushings You Need? 

If you are still not sure of how to properly measure the size of your bronze bushings, it is a good idea to get in contact with a knowledgeable professional within the industry. After all, getting the right part to complete your job is so important. Remember, you will need to know the exact size in order to be able to order the proper bronze bushings. 

Whether you know exactly what you want or you need some help with the calculations, the team at Atlas Bronze is here for you. We offer standard and made-to-order bushings for a perfect fit and can help you find exactly what you are looking for.  

Contact us today at (800) 478-0887.

What is Naval Brass?

 

Brass is one of the most common alloys due to its strength, durability, and immense malleability. This makes it very beneficial in a number of applications. Naval brass, on the other hand, is a specific type of brass with a slightly different composition that is often found in marine applications - hence its name. It, too, is very strong though corrosion-resistant which makes it successful for a lifetime in salty water. Just what is naval brass? Let’s take a closer look.

Brass vs. Naval Brass: The Composition

The composition of a metal alloy matters. One small change in it can impact its strength in certain situations - and in certain applications. As mentioned, brass is a metal alloy that is made up of copper and zinc. This composition is often in the range of 55 to 90 percent of copper and 10 to 45 percent of zinc. It does contain trace amounts of others, too, like lead and tin. The makeup of naval brass is a bit different. Generally, it will have higher levels of copper than other brass alloys. A common ratio of the metals that build this alloy includes 59% copper, 40% zinc, and 1% tin. Even though the amount of tin found in naval brass is low, it is what gives this metal alloy great resistance to corrosion while housed in the harsh conditions found in seawater. Low levels of lead are sometimes found in brass alloys. And while it may seem like an insignificant addition, it should never be overlooked. The addition of lead is what helps with the metal’s machinability. When you have the perfect combination, the metal can be more workable and stronger than initially thought.

Key Characteristics of Naval Brass

Because of its design, naval brass does have a few key characteristics that set it apart from traditional brass - aside from its ability to succeed in extreme conditions underwater. For example, when compared to brass, naval brass is:

• More durable
• More costly
• More corrosion resistant
• Less machinable

Naval brass also has a higher melting point than brass - and is not recommended for high-temperature applications. This is what makes it so fitting for marine applications.

Applications for Naval Brass

Yes, naval brass is often used in seawater applications due to its ability to handle saltwater for long periods of time. In the early 1900s, brass tubes were used on ships only to end up experiencing dezincification. This condition happens when the zinc in the alloy erodes due to corrosion. To battle this, naval bass was created and is now one of the most commonly used alloys for ships. It can be found in both saltwater and freshwater situations, used as propeller shafts, decorative fittings, shafting, marine hardware, pumps, valves, and more on ships and other marine equipment. There is no set time frame for how long naval brass will last in one of these water-submerged applications. But it is safe to say that it will last for many years - and definitely longer than traditional brass alloy.

Learn More About Naval Brass at Atlas Bronze

Interested in naval brass for your underwater application? Atlas Bronze can help. Our experts can answer any questions you may have and can help guide you to the right solution for your needs. Contact us today at (800) 478-0887.