Bronze in Marine Applications: Unveiling Its Unmatched Properties

Bronze has been around for centuries, often proving itself to be essential for maritime applications. From underwater fittings and propellers to decorative elements onboard a ship,  you can find bronze everywhere. And for good reason as its properties and versatility make it ideal for the marine environment of yesteryear and today. 

This article explores the unmatched properties that make bronze the ideal choice in marine applications. 

Corrosion Resistance is its Top Advantage

Perhaps one of the most important traits a bronze alloy must have to find success in marine environments is corrosion resistance. This is what gives bronze a significant advantage over other metals. After all, marine applications require one that stands up to salt and moisture without jeopardizing its strength and other properties. 

Bronze forms a protective patina layer on its surface when it is exposed to humid, wet, and salty conditions. This then forms a barrier against additional corrosion, saving the metal underneath from deterioration. Consider it a form of self-protection that is a necessity in the marine industry. 

Strength and Durability For Rough Seas

Harsh wave action with constant stress and vibration can put the metal under a lot of pressure.

When exposed to these elements, a metal must be able to do more than just avoid corrosion. It needs to remain strong and durable despite the environment. 

No matter what they are subject to, the strength and durability of bronze are unwavering — even when placed in these rough conditions. Keep in mind that some bronze alloys can be specifically chosen for the traits they possess depending on the specific application. 

Resistance to Marine Growth

Anything subjected to the marine environment for the long term can face many challenges. One that won’t be encountered anywhere else except in the water is the accumulation of marine organisms like algae, mussels, and barnacles. 

Any part of a ship that remains submerged underwater is subject to these things and can increase the drag, reduce the efficiency of propellers, and even clog pipes. But those made of bronze face this issue on a significantly smaller scale, leading to much less interference with performance. 

Workability and Machinability Make it Easy to Work With

Another property that makes bronze ideal is that it is an easy material to work with. This is especially helpful when working with large structures. For instance, damaged components won’t always need to be replaced as they can be thoroughly repaired. 

A metal that is machinability, weldability, and castability are often sought after to make the production of large, intricate parts more manageable. 

Aesthetic Appeal Maintains Beauty on the Water

Finally, bronze doesn’t always show up just in work positions as it has an aesthetic appeal, too. You can find this timeless, classic, golden metal – even with its patina – as a decorative element in marine applications, too. 

Embrace the beauty of bronze when used for railings, nameplates, handrails, fixtures, and more throughout boats and ships. Consider it a touch of elegance. 

Take Advantage of the Power of Bronze at AtlasBronze

With its corrosion resistance, durability, strength, workability, and resistance to the marine environment, it is evident that bronze has many benefits over other metals when it comes to marine applications. 

To take advantage of a bronze alloy, AtlasBronze gives you many options to choose from. Shop online or contact us today to learn more.