Which Flange Bearing Is the Best?

 

The flange bearing is a specialized type of bearing that has a lip on one side. Like all bearings, a flange

bearing functions to reduce friction between two parts. Bearings come in a wide range of sizes, shapes,

and materials and they may bear force, load, or a combination of the two, but the flange bearing is one

of the most frequently used varieties.

What Is a Flange Bearing?

A flange bearing is built differently than other bearings because one end is straight, while the other has a lip (or flange). 

Also known as a flanged bushing, a flange bearing provides more stability in an application. The flanged side secures the bearing while it’s being used, preventing it from falling, shifting, or slipping. This is critical in applications that involve axial push or load and when shafts are perpendicular to the mounting surface of the bearing. Without the flange end, an application would quickly malfunction because the bearing would slip out of position.

Flanged bearings also serve to minimize shaft flexing, vibration, and axial overload when heavy loads or high speeds are involved. Because a flange bearing is secured in place, it has the ability to withstand high temperatures that cause thermal expansion, which would compromise other types of bearings.

Determining the Best Types of Flange Bearings

Which flange bearing is best? There’s really no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The best flange bearings are the ones that meet the needs of your application.

Although all flange bearings are similar in design, with flanges on one end, the similarities end there. There are several types of flange bearings, starting with the number of bolts needed to secure them in place:

• Two-Bolt Flange Bearings are best used for machinery with intermediate shaft speeds and load sizes. They have a wing or diamond shape.

• Three-Bolt Flange Bearings are the bearing of choice for industrial, agricultural, and automotive applications with light-to-medium loads. The flange-end is usually circular. 

• Four-Bolt Flange Bearings have a great deal of stability, making them ideal for applications with rotating or linear movements or when a mounting surface is perpendicular to the shaft. They are square or circular in shape.

Beyond the bolt number and configuration, flange bearings can be differentiated by the materials used to make them. Oil-impregnated flange bearings release lubrication when under pressure and reabsorb it once the pressure is released, which is why they’re the preferred choice for applications that must be maintenance-free. You might find flange bearings mounted in thermoplastic, stainless steel, or cast iron housing. Each of these materials is suitable for different types of surfaces, machinery, and applications.

We offer a wide range of flange bronze bearings, including plain, graphite-plugged, and oil or grease grooved.

Learn More About Types of Flange Bearings

To find out more about Atlas Bronze flange bronze bearings, contact us at 1-800-478-0887 to speak to one of our representatives about our options. Our sales team has the industry knowledge to help you through the process of choosing the best flange bearings for your application.

The Differences Between Copper and Bronze

There’s quite a bit of overlap in the qualities and uses of copper and bronze, but there are also some

significant differences you should be aware of if you’re choosing between the two metals for your

application. What’s the difference between copper and bronze? Which one is the best choice for

your needs? We answer these questions below.

Understanding Copper

Copper is one of the earliest metals used by human populations. Best known for its reddish hue, copper is the term used for both pure copper and any copper alloy that has at least a 99.3 percent copper content. You’ll find copper in sculptures, architecture, and fixtures, but behind the scenes, it’s also commonly used for heating and electrical applications because of its superior conductivity.

There are other reasons to choose copper for your application besides conductivity, though. Copper is resistant to corrosion and valued for its strength. It’s highly formable, which is likely why it was such a widely used material by early humans. Copper is antimicrobial, making it suitable for many healthcare and medical uses. Architects, sculptors, and other artists appreciate copper because it can be given different lusters and textures when it’s buffed and polished.

Understanding Bronze

Bronze is a metal alloy that is made mostly with copper, but not enough to be considered a copper alloy. In addition to copper, other metals like iron, zinc, and tin are added to impart different qualities on the resulting metal. Like copper, bronze is often used in statues, sculpture, and architecture. Its industrial uses include pump parts, bearings, gears, and valves because bronze is valued for its resistance to wear and low friction. Many musical instruments are also made with bronze.

Bronze cast alloys, like those available from Atlas Bronze, are manufactured in three different ways: sand casting, centrifugal casting, and continuous casting. Different casting methods are used for different types of products and parts.

Copper vs. Bronze: What Makes Them Different?

Here are some of the notable qualities of copper and bronze, and differences between the two metals.

• Bronze is a dull gold in color, while copper is more of a reddish-orange.

• Copper is more commonly used in wiring and pipes, while bronze is a popular choice for bushings and bearings.

• Bronze alloys are resistant to corrosion and known for their strength, while copper is malleable and easily soldered.

• Copper can be an alloy and also a natural element, while bronze is always an alloy.

• Bronze has low friction, which makes it an excellent choice for moving parts.

• Copper has antimicrobial properties, which makes it ideal for high-touch surfaces and healthcare settings.

Learn More About Atlas Bronze Products

To learn more about ordering high-quality bronze products from Atlas Bronze, contact us at 1-800-478-0887. Our sales team offers unmatched customer support and industry knowledge, and we’re committed to working together with you to meet your needs. If you’re not sure whether you need bronze or a copper alloy for your application, we can listen to your requirements and suggest the best option for you.

 

Should I Choose Bronze or Copper for My Application?

When it’s time to choose a material for your application, there are a lot of factors to consider. Do you need a material that is conductive? One that is resistant to corrosion or can be easily worked? Taking a look at your own needs is the first step in the process; the next step involves understanding the metals you’re considering and examining their qualities.

Bronze vs. Copper: What’s the Difference?

It’s common for people to use the words bronze and copper to refer to the same type of metal, but technically speaking, there’s a difference.

Copper can be a pure metal that is mined from the earth, or it can refer to a copper alloy that has a copper content of 99.3 percent. Either way, copper is popular for a number of different applications and it was one of the first metals used by early humans, as evidenced by the Copper Age that began in the middle of the 5th millennium BC.

Bronze is a metal alloy, which means it’s always made from a combination of metals—there’s no such thing as pure bronze. Bronze is primarily made with copper, then other metals are added to impart different qualities on the resulting alloy. Some common metals used to make bronze are iron, zinc, and tin. Like copper, bronze is a metal that has been used since ancient times and the transition from copper tools to bronze is marked by the Bronze Age.

Properties of Bronze vs. Copper

Since bronze contains a large amount of copper, you might think it follows that bronze and copper have very similar properties, but slight changes in formulations can make a big difference in their qualities and characteristics.

Why Use Copper

Copper is commonly used in heating and electrical applications because it has exceptional conductivity. It’s also widely used in artwork, fixtures, and architecture because of its captivating reddish hue. The simple act of polishing and buffing copper can create a wide array of textures and lusters.

Copper has been in the news recently thanks to its antimicrobial properties, making it an increasingly popular material for everything from phone cases to face mask filters. Copper is also strong and resistant to corrosion. If you need a material that is formable, copper can be soldered, brazed, and welded.

Why Use Bronze

Like copper, bronze is a commonly used material for sculptures, statues, and other artwork, but its resistance to wear and low friction makes it a workhorse when it comes to industrial applications. You’ll find bronze in bearings, valves, pump parts, and gears. Many musical instruments are also made with bronze. If you’re looking for a metal that is hard and durable, bronze is a solid choice.

Learn More About Atlas Bronze

Of course, the best way to choose the right material for your application is to consult with one of our knowledgeable team members at Atlas Bronze. Contact us at 1-800-478-0887 and we’ll work together with you to determine whether bronze or copper is best for your purposes. If you’re not sure where to start, we can get you on the right track and ensure a successful project.

What Is the Difference Between Bushings and Bearings?

If you’re new to the manufacturing industry, you may be confused about the difference between bushings and bearings. Some people say they’re the same. Others say they’re different. Which is it? They can’t be both! Below, we’ll demystify some of the confusion surrounding these parts.
When Bearings and Bushings Are the Same

In the automotive industry, the terms bushing and bearing are often used interchangeably, so if you’re coming to manufacturing with some background knowledge on cars, it’s easy to see why you’d be confused. Bearings (or bushings, as it were) are used in gearboxes, auto transmissions, and shock systems in vehicles.

When Bushings Are Bearings

You know how all squares are rectangles, but not all rectangles are squares? This is how it works with bearings and bushings too—at least outside of the automotive industry. All bushings are bearings, but not all bearings are bushings.

Bushings are also known as sleeve bearings because they come in a cylindrical (or sleeve) shape that enables two components or surfaces to move with a sliding motion. You might also see them referred to as plain bearings. These bushings can be straight up-and-down cylinders, which are used for radial loads, or they may be flanged, which makes them suitable for radial and axial loads. Then, there are thrust washers, which are bushings that can withstand applications that involve thrust forces with moderate velocities.

When Bearings Aren’t Bushings

We know that all bushings are bearings, but what kind of bearing isn’t a bushing?

The easiest way to distinguish the two is to remember that a bushing is always a single part—a cylinder with or without a flange—while any bearing that has multiple components is not a bushing. Ball bearings, for example, are not bushings because they have several parts, including a raceway and rolling elements. In other words, the difference between bushings and bearings in some instances is that bearings are more complex. A simple sleeve bearing is a bushing, but a more complicated bearing is not.

What Else You Should Know About Bushings

We categorize bushings into sleeve bushings, flange bushings, and thrust washers, but they can be further categorized by type of lubrication.

Self-lubricating bushings are used in applications where regular lubrication is not possible or difficult. These bushings have small pores in them that are impregnated with lubricant. This lubricant is released when the bushings are in use, then reabsorbed when they are at rest, greatly reducing the need for maintenance. Graphite-plugged bushings are one example of a self-lubricating bushing.

Plain bushings can only be used in applications where there is already a system in place for lubrication or when there is sufficient staff to perform ongoing lubrication and maintenance. These are more economical than self-lubricating bushings, but once you factor in the added labor costs, self-lubricating bushings usually come out ahead in the long-term.

Learn More About the Difference Between Bushings and Bearings

If you’re still not sure whether you need a bushing or bearing for your application, our sales team is happy to help. Atlas Bronze experts are always available to explain all of our different options and listen to your needs in order to determine the right fit for you. Contact us at 1-800-478-0887 to speak with one of our experts and get started.

What Are the Different Types of Bushings?

 

Bushings are an important component in many pieces of industrial machinery and consumer products, as they allow two moving parts to function without causing damaging friction. Sometimes also known as bearings, there are several different types of bushings to choose from and selecting the correct variety means understanding how they differ, as well as knowing the needs of your application.

Types of Bushings

Bushings can be classified by both form and lubrication needs. When choosing bushings for your application, you’ll need to first choose the type, then decide upon the lubrication requirements.

At Atlas Bronze, we manufacture the following types of bronze bushings:

Sleeve Bushings

As their name suggests, these bushings come in a cylindrical form that looks like a sleeve. They allow components to slide without friction. If your application requires sleeve bushings, it’s important to note that it must either have a system that lubricates the bushing or, if not, the sleeve bushings you purchase will need to be self-lubricating.

Flange Bushings

Flange bushings are similar to sleeve bushings in form, with the primary difference being that one or both sides have a flange, or lip, to hold the bushing securely in place. Because these bushings are fixed to a surface, they can withstand thermal expansion and support heavy loads at high speeds.

Thrust Washers

Thrust washers are bushings that are designed to withstand applications that have thrust forces with moderate velocities.

Lubrication Needs

Once you know the type of bushing your application needs, you’ll have to determine whether self-lubrication is necessary. Here’s the difference between plain and self-lubricating bushings:

Self-Lubricating Bushings

When regular lubrication is not possible or desirable, self-lubricating bushings are a must. These bushings are manufactured with very small pores or grooves that are impregnated with lubricant. When in use, the bushing releases the lubricant; when at rest, the lubricant is reabsorbed. This allows machinery to run with very little maintenance.

We offer graphite-plugged bushings, which are ideal for high temperature and heavy load applications. They are resistant to corrosion and operate well in even hostile environments. Another self-lubricating bushing option is the oil and grease groove bronze bushing. This type of bushing has grooves incorporated into the design; we’ll add the lubricant of your choice during the manufacturing process.

Plain Bushings

Plain bushings are the most economical option, but you’ll need to ensure that your application has a system for lubrication or that your business has the available labor to allow staff to lubricate the machinery manually when needed. A plain bushing can also be oil-grooved or graphited if you have special requirements that can’t be met by one of our stock self-lubricating bushing options.

Learn More About the Types of Bushings

Do you need bushings for your application? Are you unsure about which type you need? Our team of engineering and manufacturing experts is here to help. Contact Atlas Bronze at 1-800-478-0887 today to speak to a member of our team to learn more about the different types of bushings we offer.

Antibacterial Effects of Brass

 

If you read the headline of this post and your reaction was something along the lines of, “What?! Is brass antibacterial? No way!”, you’re not alone. Most people have no idea that many metals have antimicrobial properties, but it’s true—and it’s not just brass. Two of the other metals we work with at Atlas Bronze, bronze and copper, are also antibacterial, as is silver and gold. 

Copper: The Key to Brass’s Antibacterial Effect

No, brass isn’t treated with an antibiotic solution or chemical. The reason why brass is antibacterial is because it contains copper.

Copper is actually antimicrobial, which is even better than antibacterial—it means it kills not only bacteria, but also viruses and fungi. Although brass is an alloy that can have different compositions depending on its use, it always contains more copper than any other element, which is why it has the same antimicrobial effect.

Brass has been shown to kill microbes in two hours or less after contact, including 99.9 percent of bacteria. A study that researched the efficacy of copper alloys in reducing the transmission of infectious microbes in a hospital setting found that patient infection rates in intensive care units can be reduced by up to 58 percent and subsequent studies have resulted in similar findings.

Even before being backed up by scientific research, copper and its alloys were understood to have medicinal properties for thousands of years. In ancient times, copper was used to transport water because its quality was better than when other materials were used. We still don’t quite understand what makes copper antimicrobial (although we do have some guesses), but the phenomenon is called the oligodynamic effect.

How Brass Can Be Used to Reduce the Spread of Infection

You might not need your brass bushings to be antibacterial, but ever since the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved copper alloys to be marketed as antimicrobial materials, there has been a proliferation of consumer products taking advantage of the natural antimicrobial effects of brass, bronze, and copper. Mobile phone cases, door openers, face masks, and even wallets now boast the addition of copper alloys to reduce the spread of infection.

In addition to consumer goods, copper alloys like brass are being used in businesses and public buildings to limit the spread of harmful pathogens. Hospitals and healthcare facilities, schools, offices, and public transportation providers are using brass for fixtures, handles, knobs, and other high-touch surfaces.

Of course, it’s important to note that not all pathogens are spread through touch—while brass and copper alloys can prevent those diseases that do spread this way, they’re not going to help with infections that are primarily transmitted through inhaling infected aerosols and respiratory droplets. In addition, a pathogen must be in contact with copper for a certain amount of time before being killed—the antibacterial effect of brass is not instantaneous. That said, when used with other infection control measures, copper alloys like brass can play an important role in reducing disease transmission.

Learn More About Antibacterial Brass

If you’d like to learn more about how your business can take advantage of the antibacterial effects of brass, contact Atlas Bronze at 1-800-478-0887 to speak with one of our experts.

Everyday Items Made of Brass

 

Brass is one of the most widely used metal alloys today thanks to its versatility. Your home is likely full of brass, as is your workplace. It’s in the zipper on your jeans and inside your jewelry box too. Why is brass so ubiquitous? What are some common items made of brass? Read on to learn more.

The Basics of Brass

Brass is a metal alloy, which means it can’t be mined from the earth—it must be manufactured from other metals. The most basic composition of brass is copper and zinc. Adjust the ratios of the two and you alter the properties of the resulting brass. Introduce other metals to the mix and you can create brass in a wide range of colors with an array of characteristics making it suited to virtually any application.

Brass is naturally antibacterial and it has properties that make it both easy to form and strong after forming. With these qualities, it’s easy to see why brass is such a popular choice for manufacturers and consumers alike.

What Is Made of Brass?

As we mentioned at the beginning of this blog post, brass is everywhere. Here are some everyday items made of brass:

Nails, Screws, Bushings, Hinges, and Other Parts

One of the reasons brass is everywhere is because it’s a small component of many larger items. The screws that hold together your furniture might be made of brass and brass bushings could be in the engine of your car. Whenever you open or close the doors of your home, it’s likely brass hinges that secure them to the door frame.

Knobs and Decorative Hardware

Speaking of doors—door knobs, drawer pulls, hooks, and other decorative hardware throughout your home might also be made from brass. Because brass can be manufactured in a wide range of colors, it’s an alloy that easily adapts to current design trends, from the shiny yellow-gold doorknobs of the 80s to today’s more understated matte finishes.

Clothing and Jewelry

Zippers on pants, purses, and other clothing items are often made of brass, as are the buttons and rivets on your jeans. Costume jewelry—those inexpensive pieces bought for style and not value—is made commonly made with brass as well. 

Plumbing

Kitchen and bathroom faucets can be made with brass, but so can the pipes, valves, and fittings in your plumbing. Brass is quite resistant to corrosion which is why it’s a common choice for plumbing fixtures.

Furniture

You can’t go wrong with a classic brass bed frame, but these days you’ll also find brass legs on coffee tables, console tables, sofas, and chairs.

Light Fixtures

Brass light fixtures have surged in popularity in recent years, being embraced by both the mid-century modern minimalist and the boho-chic maximalist. Accent lighting is commonly made with brass too.

Musical Instruments

Brass has unique acoustic properties that make it well-suited for musical instruments. The cymbals on a drum, bells, and—naturally—brass instruments are all made with brass. 

Learn More About Brass

Is brass right for your application? Our brass experts are here to answer this and any other questions you might have. Contact us today at 1-800-478-0887 to learn more.

Which Is Stronger Brass or Bronze?

 

If you’re choosing between brass and bronze for your application, there are many factors to consider: resistance to corrosion and wear, price, appearance, and conductivity are just a few. One of the most important factors for many applications is strength—which is stronger, brass or bronze? Here’s what you should know. 

What Is Bronze?

Bronze and brass are both made with copper, but bronze is made with a combination of copper and iron, tin, zinc, aluminum, or magnesium. Bronze is commonly used to fabricate items that need to be resistant to wear like bearings, gears, pump parts, and valves. Another popular use for bronze is in architectural details, sculptures, and statues.

(If you’re interested in learning more, read about how bronze is made on our blog.)

What Is Brass?

The main difference between brass and bronze is that brass is made primarily with copper and zinc, although other elements like iron, manganese, aluminum, lead, and tin can be added to change the color of the resulting alloy or give it different characteristics. The strongest varieties of brass have the highest levels of zinc. Brass is a popular choice for jewelry and other consumer goods because it can be manufactured in a wide range of colors, from red to yellow.

(Read more about the process of how brass is made.)

Brass vs. Bronze Strength

To answer which metal is stronger, brass or bronze, it’s important to take a moment to think about what we mean by strength. “Strength” isn’t a physical property we use in the industry to characterize different metals; instead, physical properties include characteristics like conductivity, resistance to corrosion, luster, formability, and hardness.

Thus, when it comes to determining which is stronger, we need to take a closer look at the properties needed for your application. Do you need a metal that is malleable instead of brittle? In this case, you will want to choose brass. Do you want a metal that has a higher melting point? Bronze comes out on top here. Bronze is also more resistant to corrosion. If by strength, you want the harder or the two metals, bronze is also the winner.

The benefit of working with metal alloys like bronze and brass is that there are many choices available, as different formulations can yield completely different physical properties. Our team at Atlas Bronze can help you understand the best material for your application.

Brass vs. Bronze Price

If you’re still wondering, “should I choose bronze or brass?”, you may want to look at the price of each. Bronze is typically more expensive than brass, although the exact cost depends on the composition of the alloys you’re comparing. 

Learn More About How to Tell the Difference Between Brass and Bronze

Are you deciding between bronze or brass for your application? Do you need help understanding the differences between these options? Atlas Bronze is here to help you with all of your purchasing decisions. Contact us at 1-800-478-0887 to speak with one of our experts and get started.

What Is a Bushing?

 

Bushings are one of the simplest types of bearings. Also known as a sleeve bearing or plain bearing, bushings are thin tubes that enable a sliding motion between two parts or surfaces. They reduce friction, most often in machinery that has a sliding shaft or rotating component. There are several different types of bushings, many of which we manufacture and sell at Atlas Bronze.

Sleeve Bushings

Bronze sleeve bushings are designed to allow sliding without friction. They must either be used in conjunction with a system that lubricates the bearing or they can be purchased with oil or grease grooves or graphite plugs for self-lubrication (also known as oil-impregnated bushings). It’s important to consider both the velocity of your application as well as the applied load when choosing a sleeve bearing; you should also consider the amount and type of lubrication needed. A graphite-plugged or oil-impregnated bushing needs less maintenance and replacement than a plain sleeve bearing.

Flange Bushings

Flanged bearings (also known as bushings) are used when a shaft runs perpendicular to the bushing’s mounting surface. They give the bushing the extra support needed to perform at high speeds and bear heavy loads, preventing the shaft from vibrating or flexing during operation. As you might guess from the name, flange bushings have a flange at one or both ends. This lip is what holds the bushing in place. Because flange bushings are affixed to a surface on one or both sides, it makes them ideal for applications where thermal expansion is likely to occur.

Thrust Washers

Bushings designed for thrust are referred to as thrust washers or thrust bearings. At Atlas Bronze, we manufacture plain thrust washers, oil or grease grooved washers, and graphite-plugged washers. Thrust washers are used as an alternative to rolling thrust bearings when only moderate velocities are involved in an application. Some common uses for thrust washers include appliances, power tools, vehicles, and any application in which axial forces need to be transmitted while keeping components aligned along a shaft.

Choosing the Right Bushing for Your Application

Although there are many materials used to manufacture bushings, we recommend metal bushings—and bronze bushings in particular—for their resistance to wear, high quality, and versatility. We carry a wide range of sizes in stock, with custom orders available when needed.

Most people know whether they need a sleeve bushing, flange bushing, or thrust washer for their application; they likely also know if they should purchase plain, grooved, or graphite-plugged bushings. What can be more difficult is determining the material for your bushings. At Atlas Bronze, we can use many different casting methods and bronze alloys; the choices you make here will determine the physical properties of the end-product. Do you need bushings that are resistant to heat? Corrosion? Our team will help you make the right decision for your needs.

Learn More About Bushings

If you’re researching bushings for your business, Atlas Bronze is available to help you understand all of the different options. Contact us at 1-800-478-0887 to speak with one of our experts and get started.

What Are the Different Types of Flange Bearings?

In the simplest terms, bearings are used to reduce friction between two mating parts. They do this by bearing force, load, or both typically on to a shaft of plate. Bearings come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials; as different applications require different types of bearings. One specialized type of bearing is the bronze flange bearing.

Flange Bearing Design

What sets flange bearings (sometimes known as flanged bushings) apart from other types of bearings is that at least one end is flanged, while the other may be straight. When it’s a single flange bearing, its shape resembles that of a top hat.

The flange (or lip) of the Flange Bearing holds the bearing in place to prevent shifting, slipping, or falling while the bearing is in use. This is particularly important when there is axial push or load being applied and when shafts run perpendicular to the bearing’s mounting surface. Flanged bearings are used to reduce issues from vibration, shaft flexing, and axial overload due to high speeds and heavy loads. Another benefit of a flange bearing, as opposed to other types of bearings, is that their design allows them to withstand high temperatures because they are held in place by the flange even when thermal expansion is occurring.

Without the lip on the end of a flange bearing, the machinery would stop working shortly after starting, as the bearing would fall out of place. Although a flange may seem inconsequential, it is actually a critical component of the design of these types of bearings.

Types of Flange Bearings

Flange bearings have at least one flange on an end of the sleeve, but beyond this, they are made from many different types of metals and plastics because they all have specific qualities, depending on the application. For instance, Flange Bearings made from Oil-impregnated Bronze release oil when in operation, making them relatively maintenance-free. Or a flange bearing made from C86300 that has graphite plugs may be used because its self-lubricating and can handle temperatures upwards of 700 degrees.

At Atlas Bronze, we provide a range of flanged bronze bushings from standards that are in stock and off the shelf to custom machined with graphite-plugs, or machined with groove used for oil and grease lubrication.

Choosing which flange bushing can be complicated. But we can help.

Learn More About Atlas Bronze Flange Bearings

To find out more about Atlas Bronze flanged bronze bushings, contact us at 1-800-478-0887 to speak to one of our representatives about our selection. Our knowledgeable sales team will help you through the process of choosing the right flange bearings for your application.

Which Sleeve Bearing Is the Best?

Bearings are one of our specialties at Atlas Bronze. We manufacture a wide variety of bearings for seemingly endless applications, but one type of bearing that’s particularly popular with our customers is the sleeve bearing. Because there are a few different sleeve bearing options, our team is often tasked with answering: which is the best sleeve bearing for my application?

About Sleeve Bearings

Like all bearings, the function of sleeve bearings (sometimes also known as bushings) is to allow for smoother movement by reducing friction between two or more moving parts. Sleeve bearings can be made with plastic, metal, or a fiber-reinforced composite material—as you might guess from the name, they are manufactured in the form of sleeves that slide between two moving parts. Not only do they absorb friction, they also reduce vibration and noise.

A metal sleeve bearing can be made from steel, graphite, or brass, but we offer bronze sleeve bearings at Atlas Bronze. The advantage of using bronze is that it is durable and resistant to high temperature and corrosion. When friction needs to be minimal, an oil-impregnated bronze sleeve bearing can be used, a solution that involves small pores in the bearing that are infused with lubricant. This lubricant is released under pressure then reabsorbed when the pressure is removed.

Sleeve bearings are affordable, simple to install, and easy to maintain. They have a high load capacity because of their large contact area.

Types of Sleeve Bearings

The first step in determining the best sleeve bearing for your application is knowing the different types of sleeve bearings:

• Flanged Sleeve Bearings are cylinders with a flange at the end to provide more bearing surface for axial loads.

• Cylindrical Bearings are straight cylinders with the same diameter at each end. They are flush inside the housing.

• Lined Bearings have a lining on the bearing surface that is made from a different material than the rest of the bearing. 

In choosing the right bearing for your purpose, you’ll have to determine the clearance, the inside and outside diameter, length, rotating speed, loading, and PV value needed. Also think about operating temperatures, humidity, and environment.

So which sleeve bearing is best? Well, there’s not really an answer to that question. The best sleeve bearing is the one that meets your needs—and every application has its own unique requirements. There’s no one-size-fits-all best sleeve bearing that meets everyone’s needs. If there was, our sales team would be out of a job! You’ll need to take a close look at what you need sleeve bearings for and determine which qualities are most important to you.

Learn More About Atlas Bronze Sleeve Bearings

To learn more about ordering high-quality sleeve bearings from Atlas Bronze, contact us at 1-800-478-0887. Our sales team offers customers unparalleled support and knowledge, and we’re committed to working together to find the best products for your needs. If you’re not sure where to start in your search for sleeve bearings, we can listen to your specifications and suggest the best solutions for you.

Which Is Stronger Bronze or Copper?

Colloquially, the terms “bronze” and “copper” are often used to mean the same thing, but technically speaking, the two metals are quite different. In order to understand which is stronger in the matchup between copper vs. bronze, it’s first important to understand the relationship between the two.

What Is Copper?

Copper refers to pure copper or to a copper alloy with 99.3 percent copper content. Known for its reddish hue, copper is one of the earliest used metals by humans and it remains popular today in electrical and heating applications because of its conductivity. It’s also beautiful, making it a common choice for architecture, fixtures, and sculpture.

In addition to its conductivity, copper is valued for its strength, corrosion resistance, antimicrobial properties, and formability. It can be soldered and brazed and some copper alloys can be welded through a number of different methods. When polished and buffed, copper can take on many different lusters and textures.

What Is Bronze?

Bronze is a metal alloy that’s made primarily with copper—although not as much copper as a copper alloy. Other metals used to make bronze include iron, tin, and zinc. Bronze copper alloys are used for valves, gears, bearings, and pump parts because the metal is resistant to wear and has low friction, but it’s also used to produce musical instruments and for statues and sculptures.

Copper vs. Bronze: Which Is Stronger?

To answer the question of which is stronger, copper or bronze, we have to define what we mean by strength. Some people searching for the strongest metal are looking for one that’s the hardest. Others use the term “strong” when they mean resistant to corrosion. Still others may define strength as the ability to bend without breaking, or ductility.

By adding other metals to copper in order to create bronze, we create a metal that is much harder than copper in its pure form, so in terms of hardness, bronze is the winner here. On the other hand, copper is more ductile, so if you’re looking for a metal that is less brittle, copper is a better choice. Bronze is typically more resistant to corrosion, so it comes out on top here as well.

When we create an alloy—whether it’s a copper alloy, bronze, or brass—we can combine the desirable elements from two or more different metals in order to create an end-product that is superior to each of these metals alone. We can use different proportions and different additions to the alloy in order to give it different characteristics, too. No matter what you’re looking for, there’s a metal alloy suited to your needs.

Learn More About Atlas Bronze Products

To learn more about ordering high-quality bronze products from Atlas Bronze, contact us at 1-800-478-0887. Our sales team offers customers unparalleled support and knowledge, and we’re committed to working together to find the best products for your applications. If you’re not sure where to start in your search for copper alloys or bronze, we can listen to your specifications and suggest the right solutions for you.

Which Thrust Bearing Is Best?

At Atlas Bronze, bearings are one of our specialties. Ball thrust bearings are a type of bearing made with two washers (known as raceways) and several ball bearings housed between them. Thrust bearings are a type of rotary bearing and their strength is in bearing axial loads—they are not designed for handling radial loads. While all rotary bearings function by facilitating the rotation of two or more parts, thrust bearings are unique in that they can perform this function while supporting axial loads in a wide range of sizes.

Choosing Thrust Bearings

One of the first variables involved in choosing the right thrust bearings for your application is the size. Thrust bearing assemblies include two thrust washers and a ball retainer in a wide range of sizes. If readymade sizes do not work for your application, we can also fabricate custom-made thrust bearing washers tailored to your needs.

Next, you’ll need to choose which material you’d like your thrust bearings to be made from. While nylon retainers are available, metal retainers offer superior strength. When it comes to the ball bearings and thrust washers, think about the application you’re purchasing thrust bearings for and the environment. Is corrosion-resistance important? Does the material need to be safe for food and beverage processing? Is strength a high priority? There are different types of thrust bearings for different purposes. Chrome steel, stainless steel, sintered bronze, and brass are some of the most common materials used to manufacture thrust bearings, although ceramic and combinations of ceramic and metal are sometimes used as well for certain types of applications.

At Atlas Bronze, we manufacture thrust bearing washers with sintered bronze. Sintered bronze thrust washers are rigid, temperature-resistant, and strong. They’re resistant to wear and they can be made self-lubricating by using oil impregnation. With their self-dampening features, sintered bronze thrust washers operate quietly. The military chooses sintered bronze thrust bearings for use in weapons and aircraft because of their reliability.

If you’re not sure which material is best for your ball thrust bearings, we’re happy to help you. Our sales team has experience working with customers from a wide range of industries and we can explain the pros and cons of each of the materials and help you decide if sintered bronze is right for your application.

Applications for Thrust Bearings

Thrust bearings are commonly used in food and beverage processing, point of purchase displays, automation, medical instruments, aerospace, marine and automotive applications. Thrust bearings are often used in applications that operate at high speeds and that require lubrication, like turbines, motors, generators, compressors, and pumps. (Want to learn more? Here’s what to know about thrust bearings.)

Learn More About Atlas Bronze Thrust Bearings

To find out more about sintered bronze thrust bearings from Atlas Bronze, contact us at 1-800-478-0887 to speak to one of our knowledgeable sales representatives about our selection. We’ll ask you questions about your application and listen to your needs and concerns. From there, we can help you decide the right types of thrust bearings for your purposes. We look forward to working with you!

Brass vs. Copper: Which Is Stronger? | Atlas Bronze

We manufacture metal components for a variety of uses, so we often work with our customers to help them decide which type of material is best for their particular application. Sometimes the goal is to find a metal alloy that offers the best resistance to corrosion; other times our customers are looking for a particular color or conductivity.

One of the most common qualities our clients are after, though, is strength—they want the strongest possible metal for the best durability. If you’re deciding between copper and brass, the answer to the question “which is stronger?” is a bit complicated. Here’s why.

What Is Brass?

To understand whether copper or brass is stronger, it’s important to remember that brass is actually made of copper. Brass is not an elemental metal—you can’t mine it, you can only create it. In its most basic form, brass is made with copper and varying amounts of zinc. Other elements, like lead, tin, aluminum, manganese, and iron, can be added as well to give brass different characteristics and colors. At the highest strength, brasses have the highest levels of zinc—typically at least 39 percent.

(Here’s an article on how brass is made if you’re curious.)

What Is Copper?

What is the difference between copper and brass? Unlike brass, copper is an elemental metal. That said, when used for industrial and commercial purposes, copper is usually alloyed with other metals to enhance or change its natural qualities. Copper is often chosen because it is antibacterial, provides good thermal and electrical conductivity, is strong enough for many applications, and resists corrosion.

Copper and copper alloys are commonly used for jewelry and sculpture, but because of its conductivity, one of the most popular uses of copper is in electrical components. Copper is also used in construction and architecture, plumbing, and heat exchangers.

Answering the Question: Which Is Stronger, Brass vs. Copper?

Is brass stronger than copper? Because brass is an alloy and copper too is often used in alloyed form, it’s more appropriate to compare specific alloys, as different compositions have different characteristics, including strength. That said, generally speaking, brass is stronger than elemental copper, but copper is less vulnerable to stress cracking.

This brings up another interesting question: how do you define strong? If you’re looking for the hardest material, that’s very different from the material that has the best ability to bend without breaking—in fact, these are opposite qualities, but you may consider both to be strength. The advantage of working with Atlas Bronze is that we’re metal experts. We’ll listen to what you’re looking for, take the time to learn about your application, and then help you understand the qualities you need in a metal and which of our alloys meet these specifications.

Learn More About Copper and Brass

Are you deciding between copper, brass, or another alloy for your application? Do you need help understanding the differences between these options? Our team is here to help you with all of your purchasing decisions. Contact us at 1-800-478-0887 to speak with one of our experts and get started.

Benefits of Graphite Plugged Bushings

There are three different types of flanged bronze bushings, including plain bushings, oil or grease grooved flanged bushings, and graphite plugged bushings. We manufacture all three types at Atlas Bronze for use in a variety of industrial applications, but today we’re going to take a closer look at graphite plugged flange bushings.

What Is a Flange Bearing?

Flange bushings (also known as flange bearings) are used whenever support is needed for a shaft that runs perpendicular to the bearing’s mounting surface. With this support, we can avoid problems with high speeds and heavy loads that cause shafts to flex, vibrate, or otherwise move. Dimensions on these bushings can vary; they can be manufactured in a variety of lengths, diameters, and thicknesses.

What Are Graphite Plugged Bronze Bushings?

Graphite plugged bushings are a special type of bushing that is used in applications that need continuous lubrication, but don’t offer easy access for the lubrication to be added manually on a regular basis. This type of bushing is made with graphite impregnated into the small holes in the bushing’s surface. When in use, these bushings release the graphite, creating a film of lubricant to keep machinery running smoothly. 

Why Use Graphite Plugged Bronze Bushings

Graphite plugged bushings are beneficial anytime an application needs ongoing lubrication, but also needs to perform for long periods without maintenance. These bearings are self-lubricating, so additional oil and grease is not needed.

Because graphite plugged bearings self-lubricate, money is saved on maintenance and replacement—both in materials and in labor costs. Additionally, less downtime is needed to add more lubricant or perform other everyday maintenance tasks. Graphite plugged bushings have better wear resistance than other types of bearings. This is because when graphite plugged bushings are in use, there is very minimal friction thanks to the lubricant film they produce. Friction is what wears parts down and causes them to need eventual replacement, so limiting this is the key to durability.

Not only do graphite plugged bushings stand up to a great deal of wear and heavy use, they’re also resistant to corrosion when in damp, humid, or marine environments. In industries where bearings will be exposed to caustic chemicals, graphite plugged bushings from Atlas Bronze are an ideal choice for their chemical resistance.

Another benefit of choosing this type of bushing is that they can be safely used in extreme hot and cold temperatures, indoors and out, and still perform well.

Where to Purchase Graphite Plugged Bronze Bushings

Atlas Bronze manufactures graphite plugged bushings made with bearing bronze, aluminum bronze, and manganese bronze for a wide range of applications and industries. We fabricate bronze bushings to your exact specifications; simply tell us the size you need and we will provide you with a quote.

Contact Atlas Bronze

If you’re uncertain about what type of bronze bushings are best for your application, contact our knowledgeable sales team for help determining your needs. Give us a call at 1-800-478-0887 or email sales@atlasbronze.com to learn more or request a quote.

Modern Items Commonly Made of Bronze

During the Bronze Age, the use of bronze was widespread because it was the hardest metal alloy available. Bronze artifacts dating back to this time period include tools, arrowheads and other weapons, building materials, and pieces of art. Once the use of iron became more prevalent, fewer everyday objects were made with bronze, but its continued use to this day attests to its durability and versatility. Today, we use bronze in a variety of applications, some of which are outlined below.

Art and Sculpture

Just like in ancient times, bronze is one of the preferred materials for sculpture and statues. Bronze is both easier to work with than other metals and also more durable. Public art pieces, such as statuary, are often made with bronze because of its longevity and resistance to the elements. Statuary bronze is usually made with 97 percent copper, two percent tin, and one percent zinc.

Musical Instruments

Bells and cymbals are often made with bronze; for bells, a special “bell metal” alloy is used, which is made with a high percentage of tin. Asian percussion instruments, like gongs and singing bowls, are also made with bronze in varying compositions.

Bronze is also used in string instruments, including the guitar, double bass, and piano, for the windings of steel and nylon strings. Bronze strings are used for tones with lower pitches, where they perform better than their high-tensile steel counterparts.

Coins and Medals

There is, of course, the bronze medal that is traditionally awarded for third place in a competition, but bronze is used to make a variety of medals and plaques for many different purposes. Commemorative coins may be made with bronze too, although coins used for currency are not typically made with bronze in modern times. During the 1800s, United States pennies were made with bronze, and in the United Kingdom, one and two pence coins were made with bronze until the early 1990s.

Architectural Bronze

Bronze has many architectural uses, ranging from everyday items like mailboxes, furniture, and stair railings, to more elaborate ornamental items like decorative cladding on doors and windows. Not only does bronze stand the test of time in these applications, but it comes in a range of colors that makes it desirable as well. Bronze used for architecture is an alloy made with 57 percent copper, 40 percent zinc, and three percent lead. 

Commercial Bronze

It’s difficult to find an industry where bronze isn’t used! We use items made with bronze daily without even thinking about it. Bearings, bushings, screws, valves, and countless other parts are made with bronze because of its strength, durability, resistance to corrosion, and ductility. Wrought alloys are available in sheets and plates, rods, tubes, or bar stock and are produced by rolling and extrusion mills or by a forging mill. In contrast, cast alloys are produced by sand casting, centrifugal casting, and continuous casting. They are the most readily available type of bronze alloy.

Contact Atlas Bronze

Our knowledgeable sales staff can help you determine what type of material is best for various bronze applications. Contact us at 1-800-478-0887 or email sales@atlasbronze.com to learn more or request a quote.

Understanding Naval Brass

Don’t let its name deceive you—naval brass is used for a variety of purposes on both land and at sea. As an alpha beta brass (also known as a duplex brass), naval brass is strong and hard, making it an ideal choice whenever durability is needed. It’s one of the numerous metal alloys we manufacture at Atlas Bronze and it’s a popular choice with many of our customers for a wide range of applications.

What Is Naval Brass?

Naval brass is a copper alloy that is typically comprised of around 70 percent copper, 29 percent zinc, and small amounts of lead and iron, although different manufacturers may have varying formulations. Many naval brass alloys also include tin.

What sets naval brass apart from other types of brass is its high corrosion resistance to seawater. It’s a top choice for marine atmosphere applications and it was originally developed for this purpose, but it’s also used in many other industries as well. Naval brass is prized for its higher tensile strength and resistance to wear and tear.

Naval brass has excellent hot workability and forgeability. It can be fabricated by blanking, drawing, bending, heading and upsetting, hot forging, and pressing.

Naval Brass Applications

Shipbuilders have been using naval brass for decades to ensure that vessels are seaworthy and that their components will stand the test of time. Naval brass can be used to fabricate metal parts located anywhere on a watercraft, from port to starboard. This includes:

• Propellers
• Impellers 
• Pumps 
• Pump bodies 
• Shafts 
• Porthole rings 
• Ornamental fixtures 
• Submarine and torpedo parts 
• Ship trimmings 
• Marine hardware 
• Rudders 
• Marine engine parts 
• Outboard motor components 

Naval brass is an obvious choice in these applications because of its resistance to corrosion in both saltwater as well as freshwater. Other uses for naval brass, both in the marine environment and on land, include:

• Nuts
• Bushings and bearings 
• Clamps 
• Valves 
• Flanges 
• Bolts 
• Lock washers 
• Screws 
• Air pressure conveyor systems 
• Soundproofing equipment 
• Springs 
• Chain 
• Tubing 
• Heat exchangers 
• Wire screens 
• Liners 
• Power cylinders 
• Aircraft turnbuckle barrels 
• Dies 
• Condenser plates 

Where to Purchase Naval Brass

Atlas Bronze carries naval brass in sheets, plates, and rounds and we provide bronze for marine replacement parts and repairs all over the world. Our solid bars of naval brass come in a wide range of diameters, and our sheets and plates come in a variety of thicknesses suitable for a number of different purposes. We can cut the material to the length you need and also have items made to your print.

Whether you’re purchasing for naval applications or another application in which durability and corrosion-resistance are a must, Atlas Bronze is a leader in the field and will meet your requirements and timelines.

Contact Atlas Bronze

Our experienced sales team can help you assess your business’s needs and determine whether naval brass is the best choice for your application. Contact us at 1-800-478-0887 or email sales@atlasbronze.com to learn more or request a quote.

Thrust Bearings: What You Should Know

Bearings are the unsung heroes of the machinery world, helping keep things running smoothly without anyone giving them a second thought. We use bearings every single day of our lives, but few of us even realize it. One type of bearing that’s particularly useful is the thrust bearing.

What Is a Thrust Bearing?

There are seemingly endless different types of bearings for use in all kinds of industrial applications, but the one thing they all have in common is that they bear loads and force to enable two or more moving parts of a machine to operate with minimal friction between them. Without bearings, these parts would be in direct contact with each other and the friction would eventually damage them beyond repair.

Thrust bearings are rotary bearings that are specifically designed to bear a predominantly axial load. All rotary bearings function by allowing two or more parts to rotate, but it is only a thrust bearing that can perform this function while also supporting axial loads of varying sizes.

Thrust bearings are comprised of two raceways, or washers, and rolling elements or bearing balls. Different types of thrust bearings have different designs, but the overall function remains the same.

Thrust Bearing Materials

Chrome steel, stainless steel, bronze, and brass are common materials used in the manufacturing of thrust bearings. Stamped sheet-metal is sometimes used as well. Ceramics and ceramic hybrids are used in some types of thrust bearings too. These typically have metal raceways and ceramic rolling elements. 

When Are Thrust Bearings Used

Thrust bearings are used in turbines, motors, and pumps. They’re also found in generators and compressors. Whenever there is an application that requires oil lubrication and that operates at high speeds, thrust bearings are a potential option. For this reason, they are commonly used in aerospace, marine, and automotive manufacturing. An example of thrust bearing in use is in the gearbox of a car.

Types of Thrust Bearings

Two of the most common types of thrust bearings are ball thrust bearings and roller thrust bearings. Ball thrust bearings cannot bear as much axial load as other types of thrust bearings, while roller thrust bearings can work in situations with a higher axial load. Ball thrust bearings are made of several ball bearings held between two raceways, which may have grooves or be flat. Roller thrust bearings have cylindrical rolling elements rather than ball bearings; the cylindrical surface gives them more contact area, which is why they can carry higher axial loads.

Other types of thrust bearings include cylindrical thrust roller bearings, tapered roller thrust bearings, fluid bearings, and magnetic bearings.

Learn More About Atlas Bronze Thrust Bearing

To find out more about Atlas Bronze thrust bearings, contact us at 1-800-478-0887 to speak to one of our sales representatives about our offerings. We’ll help you through the process of choosing the right bearings for your application to make sure your project is a success. Our team looks forward to working with you.