ASTM B103/B103M-04e1

1.1 This specification establishes copper-tin alloy (phosphor bronze), copper-tin-lead alloy (leaded phosphor bronze), and copper-tin-lead-zinc alloy (bearing bronze), plate, sheet, strip, and rolled bar. The phosphor bronzes commonly are used for deep drawing into bellows and stamping and forming into spring devices and into terminals and connectors for electrical apparatus because they combine high strength with high elongation. The leaded phosphor bronzes are used where strength, corrosion resistance, and machinability are required. The bearing bronze is used in bushings, bearings, and load-bearing thrust washers. The following alloys are covered:

Note 1

All of the above alloys contain small amounts of phosphorus, used as a deoxidant in melting, and to enhance the mechanical properties.

1.2 The values stated in either inch-pound units or SI units are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text, the SI units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each system are not exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the specification.