Start with component function
Define the type of load, sliding contact or wear, temperature, corrosive environment, operating medium and required service life. For mating parts, lubrication, speed and counterface material also matter.
The alloy family is only a starting point
Bronzes and brasses differ in composition, castability, machinability and service behaviour. A general family name should not replace the grade stated on the drawing.
If the design permits an alternative, agree the equivalence criteria and required material documentation.
Process and delivered condition
Provide geometry, mass, quantity, information about patterns or samples, machined surfaces, tolerances and inspection requirements. The manufacturing route affects achievable properties and machining scope. Looking for a supplier for a specific component? Explore our bronze castings or brass castings services. If new tooling is required, see our foundry pattern making services.
Information for an enquiry
A clear description of operating conditions and finished-component requirements reduces the risk of interpreting a broad material name incorrectly.
- full material designation and required standard edition
- drawing, dimensions, mass and quantity
- loads, motion, lubrication, temperature and environment
- tolerances, allowances and machined surfaces
- required examination and material certificates
Solid copper-alloy plain bearings
For solid copper-alloy plain bearings, the current ISO catalogue includes ISO 4382-1:2021 for cast materials and ISO 4382-2:2021 for wrought materials. Their scope does not replace a general casting specification or design requirements.
Standards in their specific context
ISO 4382-1:2021 concerns cast copper alloys for plain bearings. ISO 4382-2:2021 concerns wrought copper alloys for solid plain bearings. These references are not a general material selection rule for every casting or a list of alloys supplied by METAL-KOLOR.