Bronze, compared to other alloys, consists of copper, tin and sometimes phosphorus and zinc. It can be cut, hammered or molded to make certain shapes or parts used for projects in the aircraft, architectural, printing, stamping and forging industries and more. Bronze is also required to produce medals or coins, and it is most common in artwork to form bronze statues or engravings.

Whether you're an artist or a manufacturer, it's important to distinguish among various types of bronze, including aluminum, phosphor, silicon and lead. Bronze, which is sometimes called tin bronze, works best for creating bronze sculptures. Aluminum bronze is corrosion-resistant, and it is commonly used for machine parts and valves. Springs are an example of phosphor bronze, while silicon bronze is used in the production of specialty wires or chemical containers. Lead bronze is often used to produce hardware bushings and bearings. Manganese bronze is applied to objects such as gears or hydraulic cylinders. Once you've determined your need for bronze and other bronze materials, consider these aspects:

1. Research bronze information, including types of bronze, to help you get started.

2. Buy bronze parts and materials to complete the project.

3. Consider bronze producers or manufacturers that offer services.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Research information about bronze and bronze manufacturers

Find information on different bronze varieties and bronze material to get started in bronze sculpture or statue production, as well as industrial processes.

I recommend: Intermet Metals Services, Inc. distributes bronze alloy, aluminum bronze, naval bronze rods and manganese bronze. Spectrum Machine, Inc. specializes in bronze products such as rough castings, bushings and thrust washers.

Gather all of the bronze material that you'll need

Research and shop for bronze tools and other products used to make bronze sculptures, bronze statues or other bronze material to produce machines or mechanical parts.

I recommend: National Bronze & Metals, Inc. features an array of bronze rods, sheets and plates for blanking, etching, forming and bending. Concast Metal Products Co. supplies bronze bars, tubes and rectangles to produce bronze sculptures for ornamental or architectural purposes.

Find bronze producers that offer additional services

Some producers of bronze also provide testing, plating and cutting services to help meet business or project goals.

I recommend: Rockwell Industries International Corp. manufactures and distributes materials such as bronze and bronze alloy. Heat treating, surface grinding and water jet cutting are among the services offered. Beartech Alloys, LLC distributes bronze material such as round bars, plates and rods for ornamental, architectural and statuary applications.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Wear cotton gloves or use a soft cloth to handle different forms of bronze. Any oils or salts from your bare hands may cause discoloration or damage.
• •  Keep bronze statues dust-free by using the nozzle attachment of a vacuum cleaner. A toothbrush can be used to remove dust from any crevices.
• •  Never store bronze or bronze products in basements or any other damp locations. Moisture can cause permanent damage to the finish.