phosphor bronze: An alloy of coppercontaining 4% to 10% of tin and0.05% to 1% of phosphorus as a deoxidizingagent. It is used particularlyfor marine purposes and where it isexposed to heavy wear, as in gearwheels.
This, a copper-base alloys with low phosphorus content, originally called steel bronze, was 92- 8 bronze deoxidized with phosphorus and cast in an iron mold. It is now any bronze deoxidized by the addition of phosphorus to the molten metal. It may or may not contain residual phosphorus in the final state. Ordinary bronze frequently contains cuprous oxide formed by the oxidation of the copper during fusion. By the addition of phosphorus, a powerful reducing agent, a complete reduction of the oxide takes place. Phosphor bronzes have excellent mechanical and cold-working properties and low coefficient of friction, making them suitable for springs, diaphragms, bearing plates, and fasteners. In some environments, such as salt water, they are superior to copper. Uses include bearings, bushings, gear shafts, valve components, and screw-machine products.
