Aluminium Bronze is the highest strength standard copper based bearing alloys. Aluminium is a potent strengthener of these alloys. Higher the Aluminium content, higher the strength. In addition Aluminium Bronze has very high elevated temperature strength. At nearly 250℃ is same as that of Phosphorous Bronze at room temperature. Furthermore Aluminium Bronze has the highest fatigue strength of all bearings material and they can resist repeated and severe impact loads very well.
Aluminium Bronze requires full film lubrication to prevent metal to metal contact and possible scoring. Therefore it requires good shaft arrangement.
It has little lower Thermal conductivity than some of the lower strength alloys. As a result it can be used at moderate speeds if shaft hardness, shaft alignment and lubrication are well controlled.
Maximum Operating Temperature 300℃.
Commercial Grades
| UNS | % Al | % Fe | % Ni | % Cu |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AB-1 | 8.5-10.5 | 1.5-3.5 | 1 max | Rem |
| AB-2 | 8.8-10 | 4.5-5.5 | 4.4-5.5 | Rem |
Applications
| Properties | Application |
|---|---|
| High strength | Plain bearing |
| Corrosion resistance compare to other bronze | Landing gear |
| Low reactivity with sulfurous compounds | Ship propellers |
| High hardness | Bush |
| High wear resistance | Valve body (for sea water) |
| Pump components (for sea water) | |
| Heavy duty sleeve bearings |