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.