Phosphor Bronze (also known as tin bronze or phos bronze) is an alloy of copper, tin and phosphorous. One of the oldest metal alloys, it is a versatile material that offers very good corrosion resistance. It is particularly used within the marine industry but also electrical, aerospace and chemical.
A number of grades of phosphor bronze are available. PB102 is the most common grade of wrought phosphor bronze used in the UK.
It has high corrosion resistance and excellent spring qualities – making it suitable for a wide range of applications and especially heavy duty components.
Phosphor Bronze is very dense and therefore machining it can present some challenges. It has a machinability rating of 20 (compared to Brass CZ121 at 100).
Very sharp cutting tools are required. Tipped tools are preferred. Plenty of coolant is recommended.
Here at Penta Precision, we have years of experience when it comes to machining Phosphor Bronze, so your parts will be in safe hands.
You may also see Phosphor Bronze referred to as:
Here are the standard stock sizes/colours for Phosphor Bronze in the UK. Please note we do not supply stock material, the information provided is purely for design and research purposes.
Stock sizes will vary depending on supplier. Please get in contact to discuss further.
Bronze is valued for its excellent wear resistance, low friction, and durability, making it ideal for parts such as bushings, bearings, gears, and sliding components. It performs well under load and in harsh environments, delivering reliable service life for both industrial and precision applications.
Bronze components are widely used in marine engineering, aerospace, industrial machinery, and architectural applications. Its resistance to corrosion and seawater makes it especially suitable for marine parts, while its aesthetic appeal also lends itself to decorative fittings and art installations.
Yes, bronze generally machines well and produces clean, precise cuts. However, different bronze alloys can vary in machinability, so selecting the right grade for your application is important.
Yes. Penta Precision provides Design for Manufacture support to help you optimise bronze parts for machining efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and performance.
We review pre-existing designs to ensure features are suitable for CNC processes and advise on material selection for your specific application needs. We do not create machining designs from scratch.