Definition

Noun: A strong, corrosion-resistant alloy of copper, tin, and a small amount of phosphorus. It is valued for its excellent wear resistance, fatigue strength, and spring properties.

Usage

Phosphor bronze is used primarily in industrial and mechanical applications where durability and reliability under stress are critical. It is a specific type of bronze, distinguished by its phosphorus content.

Examples

• The gears in this precision instrument are made of phosphor bronze for long life.
• Phosphor bronze is commonly used for electrical contacts and springs.
• Due to its resistance to saltwater corrosion, phosphor bronze is suitable for marine hardware.

Advanced Usage

• "Phosphor bronze bearing": A bearing manufactured from this alloy, known for its low friction and high load capacity.
  • The pump's shaft is supported by a phosphor bronze bearing.
• The term is often used attributively (like an adjective) before nouns like , , , or .
  • We need a phosphor bronze strip for the spring contact.

Variants and Related Words

• Bronze (noun): A broader category of copper-tin alloys. Phosphor bronze is a specific variant of bronze.
• Tin bronze (noun): Another term for bronze, highlighting its tin content. Phosphor bronze is a type of tin bronze.

Synonyms

• Tin bronze (general term, but less specific)
• Copper-tin-phosphorus alloy (technical/descriptive synonym)

Antonyms

• There is no direct antonym, as it is a specific material. Contrasting materials could include soft brass or pure copper, which are softer and less wear-resistant.

Related Phrases

• Bearing bronze: A category of bronze alloys used for bearings, which often includes phosphor bronze.
• Spring bronze: A term sometimes used for alloys like phosphor bronze that are suitable for making springs.

Noun

1. a corrosion-resistant bronze containing phosphorus; used in bearings and gears