What Is The Difference in Materials of Nuts?

What is the difference in materials of nuts?

Bronze, brass, and POM are three entirely different materials, belonging to metal alloys and engineering plastics respectively. Here are their core differences:

1. Materials and Component

Bronze: A copper-based alloy primarily containing tin (Sn) or lead (Pb), modern bronze may also include elements like aluminum or silicon.

Brass: A copper-based alloy mainly composed of zinc (Zn), with possible additions of lead or manganese to enhance performance.

POM: A thermoplastic engineering plastic, chemically a high polymer of polyoxymethylene (-CH₂O-), which is not a metal.

Key Differences: Bronze and brass are metal alloys, whereas POM is a plastic.

2.Physical and Mechanical Properties:

Bronze: High hardness, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, low melting point (800–1050℃), suitable for casting. Commonly used in bearings, gears, ship parts, etc.

Brass: High strength, easy to process, lower conductivity than bronze, bright yellow color. Often used in valves, pipes, hardware items, etc.

POM: High strength, wear resistance, self-lubricating, but poor heat resistance (maximum continuous use temperature ≤ 100℃). Insulating and non-conductive, commonly used as a metal alternative in gears, bearings, plastic parts, etc.

Key Differences: POM is lightweight and insulating but has significantly lower heat resistance compared to metals; bronze and brass are conductive, heat-resistant, and suitable for high temperatures.

3.Appearance and Uses

3.1Color:

Bronze: Bluish-gray (after oxidation) or reddish-brown.

Brass: Bright yellow.

POM: Typically white or black, can be dyed.

3.2Typical Applications:

Bronze/Brass: Mechanical parts, artworks, conductive components.

POM: Precision plastic parts (such as automotive clips, electronic switches).

4. Other Features:

4.1Corrosion resistance: Bronze > Brass > POM (POM is not resistant to strong acids and bases). 

4.2Processing methods: Bronze and brass can be cast or machined, while POM is formed through injection molding.

5. Summary: Bronze and brass are metals suitable for high-strength and high-temperature applications, whereas POM is a lightweight plastic suitable for insulation and low-friction requirements.

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