CuSn12 vs CuSn8: Same phosphor bronze family — CuSn12 is much harder but very brittle
CuSn12 vs CuSn8
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
CuSn12
CW483K
High-tin phosphor bronze — the strongest in the CuSn series. 12% Sn for maximum wear resistance and strength among phosphor bronzes. Difficult to cold form. Primarily used as castings or hot-formed products. Used for heavy-duty bearings, worm gears, sliding surfaces, and marine hardware.
CuSn8
2.1030
Phosphor bronze with 8% tin. High mechanical strength, excellent wear resistance, good corrosion resistance (especially seawater). Self-lubricating sliding properties. Used for heavy-duty bearings, gears, worm wheels, springs, sliding elements, and connectors.
| CuSn12 | CuSn8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | CW483K | 2.1030 |
| Category | Copper & Brass | Copper & Brass |
| Standard | EN 1652 | EN 12163 |
Chemical composition (wt%)
| Element | CuSn12 | CuSn8 | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| P | 0–0.4% | 0.01–0.4% | OK |
| Ni | 0–0.3% | 0–0.3% | OK |
| Cu | — | — | — |
| Sn | 11–13% | 7.5–8.5% | No overlap |
Mechanical properties
| Property | CuSn12 | CuSn8 | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| tensile_strength | 280–350 | 450–540 | MPa |
| yield_strength | ≥ 150 | ≥ 300 | MPa |
| elongation | ≥ 3 | ≥ 18 | % |
Compatibility Assessment
CuSn12 has 50% more Sn for higher hardness and wear resistance but only 3% elongation (vs 18% for CuSn8). CuSn12 is mainly cast; CuSn8 is wrought. Choose CuSn12 for heavy-duty bearings/gears; CuSn8 for springs and electrical contacts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CuSn12 the same as CuSn8?
CuSn12 and CuSn8 have a 65% composition overlap. Same phosphor bronze family — CuSn12 is much harder but very brittle
Can I replace CuSn12 with CuSn8?
Generally not recommended. The compositions differ significantly (65% overlap). These materials have different alloying concepts and are intended for different applications.
What is the difference between CuSn12 and CuSn8?
The main differences are in the following elements: Sn. CuSn12 is a Copper & Brass grade, while CuSn8 is a Copper & Brass grade.
Related Comparisons
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Data provided for reference only. Always verify against the applicable specification for critical applications.
All data is for reference only. Equivalents indicate similarity, not identity. Always verify against the applicable specification for safety-critical applications. materialref.com accepts no liability for decisions based on this data.