Lead bronze

Lead bronzes are alloys with a higher lead content, which softens them. At the same time it reduces their coefficient of friction and thus the risk of bearing seizure in the absence of lubricant.

They are mainly used for the production of bearings with low load and high sliding speed, have good dry running properties and are resistant to acidic environments. Due to the presence of lead these bronzes are not suitable for working environments with higher temperatures; their mechanical properties change at temperatures as low as 20°C.

It is produced by the continuous casting process according to EN 1982 or by centrifugal casting with material additions for machining.

Lead bronze CuSn7Pb15 (CC496K) is the most available material in tubes and round bars. This alloy is used for the production of bearings subjected to friction and shock, especially in the chemical industry.

Lead bronze CuSn10Pb10 (CC495K) is available as standard in round bars, and to a lesser extent in tubes. It is used in the production of imperfectly lubricated bearings with high rotational speeds, sliding segments, connecting rod pans, etc.

Lead bronze CuSn5Pb20 (CC497K) and other lead bronze alloys are available according to current foundry production. The general use of lead bronzes is also for the pans of highly stressed bearings (automobiles, aircraft engines, turbochargers).

Standard production lengths of profiles and tubes are 3000 mm. It is also possible to deliver them in sections without the requirement for a minimum quantity.