C93400 is a copper alloy belonging to the leaded tin bronze family. It's known for its exceptional
machinability, good wear resistance, and fair pressure tightness, making it a popular choice for bearings
and bushings. However, similar to other high-lead alloys, its use is decreasing due to environmental and
health concerns.
Table: Key Properties of C93400
| Property |
Description |
| Chemical Composition |
- Primarily Copper (Cu): 76-81% <br> - Tin (Sn): 6-7.5% <br> - Lead (Pb): 14-18%
<br> - Other (Fe, Zn, etc.): Trace amounts
|
| Mechanical Properties |
- Excellent machinability due to high lead content <br> - Good wear resistance for
bearings and bushings <br> - Moderate strength and fair pressure tightness
|
| Common Brands (By Country) |
- Europe: CuSn6Pb14 [Europe] <br> - US: Leaded Tin Bronze |
Common Questions and Answers:
What are the main applications of C93400?
The use of C93400 is declining due to lead content. However, some traditional applications include:
Bearings and bushings: In applications with moderate loads and where good machinability is
crucial, C93400's properties make it suitable for bearings and bushings.
Gears: Low-load gears can benefit from C93400's machinability and wear resistance.
Pump components: Impeller bushings and wear plates can be made from C93400 due to its
machinability and pressure tightness.
Important Note: Regulations on lead usage can make finding readily available C93400 or its
equivalents challenging. Explore alternative copper alloys with lower lead content for most applications.
What are the drawbacks of using C93400?
The main drawbacks of C93400 are:
High lead content: Lead is a health hazard during machining and limits applications due to
environmental regulations.
Moderate strength: Compared to other copper alloys, C93400 offers moderate strength, making
it unsuitable for demanding applications.
Fair corrosion resistance: C93400 is not ideal for environments with high corrosion
potential.
Are there lead-free alternatives to C93400?
Several lead-free copper alloys offer better overall properties. Depending on the specific application
requirements, some options include:
C93700: A lead-free alternative with good machinability and wear resistance for bearings and bushings.
Aluminum bronzes (e.g., C95400): Offer good strength, wear resistance, and machinability without lead.
Important Note: Always consult with a material engineer or supplier to identify the most
suitable copper alloy for your specific application considering factors like strength, wear resistance,
corrosion resistance, and regulatory compliance.
