Phosphor Bronze (UNS C51000)

Image of Phosphor Bronze C51000 bars

Phosphor Bronze C51000 is a type of bronze alloy that is primarily composed of copper, tin, and phosphorus. It belongs to the family of bronze alloys, which are characterized by their exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and electrical conductivity.

Chemical Composition
ElementMinMax
Copper93.6%95.6%
Iron——0.1%
Lead——0.05%
Phosphorus0.03%0.35%
Tin4.2%5.8%
Zinc——0.3%

The following table provides a list of bronze C51000 properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.

Click on the icon to switch between Metric and Imperial units.

Table of Bronze C51000 Properties
Physical Properties
Metric
Density8860 kg/m3
Mechanical PropertiesMetric
Tensile Strength (Ultimate)330 - 960 MPa
Tensile Strength (Yield)130 - 550 MPa
Shear Strength250 - 460 MPa
Young’s Modulus (E)110 GPa
Shear Modulus (G)41 GPa
Elongation at Break60%
Poisson’s Ratio (ν)0.34
Thermal PropertiesMetric
Melting Point950 - 1060 °C
Thermal Conductivity84 W/m·K
Specific Heat Capacity (Cp)380 J/kg·K
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL)1.78×10-5 1/°C
Electrical PropertiesMetric
Electrical Conductivity1.04×107 S/m
Electrical Resistivity8.7×10-8 Ω·m

The values in this table are approximate and can vary depending on various factors such as the specific manufacturing process and heat treatment applied to the alloy.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Phosphor Bronze C51000

AdvantagesDisadvantages
High StrengthHigh Cost
Good Spring PropertiesLimited Heat Resistance
Good Corrosion ResistanceBrittle at Low Temperatures
Good MachinabilitySensitive to Certain Chemicals

Applications of Phosphor Bronze C51000

Phosphor Bronze C51000 is utilized in various applications due to its favorable mechanical and electrical properties. Here are some common applications of Phosphor Bronze C51000:

  • Springs and Fasteners: Phosphor Bronze C51000’s excellent spring properties make it ideal for the manufacturing of springs, including flat springs, helical springs, and Belleville washers. It is also used in fasteners like screws, nuts, and bolts.
  • Electrical Connectors and Contacts: The combination of high electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance makes Phosphor Bronze C51000 suitable for electrical connectors, terminals, and contacts. It ensures efficient electrical transmission and reliability in applications such as connectors for electronic devices, automotive electrical systems, and telecommunications.
  • Bearings and Bushings: Phosphor Bronze C51000’s high strength, wear resistance, and self-lubricating properties make it a popular choice for manufacturing bearings and bushings. It provides low friction, good load-carrying capacity, and resistance to wear in applications like automotive engines, machinery, and equipment.
  • Musical Instruments: Phosphor Bronze C51000 is widely used in the construction of musical instruments, particularly for strings like guitar strings, mandolin strings, and acoustic instrument strings. Its spring-like properties, durability, and corrosion resistance contribute to producing clear sound and extended string life.
  • Marine and Coastal Applications: The corrosion resistance of Phosphor Bronze C51000 makes it suitable for marine and coastal applications. It is used in components such as propellers, shipbuilding fittings, marine hardware, and underwater connectors, where exposure to saltwater and moisture is common.
  • Aerospace Components: Phosphor Bronze C51000 is employed in certain aerospace applications, including connectors, terminals, and electrical contacts in aircraft systems. Its electrical conductivity, reliability, and corrosion resistance are advantageous in aerospace environments.
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