Leaded bronze contains various levels of lead. Tin bronzes can possess high levels of lead. This is true for C945, C943, C938, C937, C936, C935, C934 and the very popular and common C932. While C932 is the true workhorse of this type of alloy, C938 is no slouch.
C938
C938 is classified as a high-leaded tin bronze. Referred to as ASTM B66 and/or ASTM B584, this metal is an alloy of copper, tin, and lead. By adding nickel, the result is a material with increased ductility and strength. Companies choose this product for any of several reasons. However, one of the more compelling reasons is its resistance to both corrosion and biofouling. This explains its applications in demanding industrial and marine applications.
Typical Applications
C938 leaded bronze, while not as popular as the better-known C932, is in demand. It is a common alloy for various components in industrial, transportation and marine applications. Among the list of uses for this high-leaded tin bronze are the following:
- Automotive fittings
- Bearings – for cranes, freight cars, ships
- Bearing plates
- Bridge parts
- Bushings – high speed for heavy pressures and light loads
- Diesel engine wrist pin bushings
- Forging press toggle lever bearings
- Fuel pump bushings
- General purpose bushings (moderate pressure)
- Hydraulic press stuffing box and mainlining
- Industrial centrifuges
- Low friction – moderate pressure bushings
- Machine tool bearings
- Main spindle bearings
- Mild acid applications
- Press Linkage bushings
- Pump impellers
- Railroad applications e.g. Railroad and Locomotive engine casings
- Rolling mill bearings
- Trunion bearings
- Turbocharger bearings
- Washers
- Water pump bushings
- Wearing Material for Rod Bushings, Shoes and Wedges
- Although a partial list, this indicates the usage of C938.
Leaded Bronze
The popularity of leaded bronze is waning in various applications. However, industries and other concerns continue to appreciate the qualities it imbues to their products. They value such things as functionality and cost-effectiveness. In these aspects, such metal alloys as C932 and C938 continue to prove their worth.