AB3 (Aluminium Bronze Marine) | BS1400 AB3 Alloy Castings

AB3 (Aluminium Bronze Marine) | BS1400 AB3 Alloy Castings

Conex Metals is a specialist manufacturer and global exporter of AB3 Aluminium Bronze Marine Alloy castings, produced as per British Standard BS1400: AB3. AB3 is a premium-grade marine aluminium bronze engineered to deliver exceptional resistance to seawater corrosion, biofouling, cavitation, and high mechanical loads. It is one of the most trusted alloys used in marine propulsion systems, offshore platforms, desalination plants, and subsea equipment, where reliability and strength are critical for long service life in harsh environments. Our in-house foundry and CNC machining facilities allow us to supply precision-engineered AB3 components to OEMs, shipyards, offshore contractors, pump manufacturers, and engineering companies worldwide. Overview of AB3 Aluminium Bronze AB3 Aluminium Bronze is a nickel-aluminium bronze alloy containing controlled amounts of nickel and iron, providing a strong metallurgical matrix with excellent mechanical and corrosion-resisting properties. It exhibits:

  • Superior seawater corrosion resistance
  • High resistance to cavitation and erosion
  • High strength-to-weight ratio
  • Excellent resistance to biofouling
  • Long-term dimensional stability
  • Good fatigue and shock resistance

AB3 is an ideal material for parts exposed to continuous seawater contact and dynamic mechanical loads. Typical Chemical Composition:

ElementPercentage (%)
Copper (Cu)78.0 – 83.0
Aluminium (Al)9.0 – 11.0
Nickel (Ni)4.0 – 6.0
Iron (Fe)4.0 – 5.5
Manganese (Mn)up to 1.5
Others<1.0

Manufacturing Capabilities — Conex Metals We produce AB3 Marine Alloy components using:

  • Sand Casting
  • Centrifugal Casting
  • Continuous Casting

Precision machining is performed on:

  • CNC Lathes
  • Vertical & Horizontal Machining Centres
  • Boring & Grinding Machines
  • Surface Finishing Equipment

Our production process ensures dimensional accuracy, consistent alloy quality, and marine-grade surface finishes. Typical Applications of AB3 Aluminium Bronze

  • Propeller Hubs, Blades, and Shafts
  • Marine Pump Impellers, Rings & Casings
  • Seawater Valve Components
  • Underwater Fasteners & Fittings
  • Offshore Platform Hardware
  • Bushings & Bearings in Marine Environments
  • Subsea Connectors
  • Hydro-Turbine Components
  • Shipbuilding Structural Parts
  • Water Desalination Equipment

Industries Served

  • Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering
  • Offshore Oil & Gas
  • Power Generation (Hydro, Tidal, Wind)
  • Mining & Dredging
  • Pumps & Valves Industry
  • Subsea & ROV Equipment
  • Water Treatment & Desalination
  • Defence & Naval Applications

Mechanical Properties (Typical):

PropertyTypical Value
Tensile Strength650 – 850 MPa
Yield Strength300 – 500 MPa
Elongation (at break)8 – 15 %
Brinell Hardness150 – 220 HB
Fatigue StrengthExcellent
Cavitation ResistanceExcellent

Exact values depend on casting process and heat treatment. Dimensional Tolerances

  • ISO 8062 (CT7 – CT8) or custom tolerances for machined parts
  • Marine Class / Defence Standards available upon request

Surface Finishing Options

  • Precision Machined
  • Marine-Grade Polished
  • Anti-fouling Coatings (optional)
  • Class Society Approval (Lloyd’s Register, ABS, DNV — on request)

Lead Time

  • Standard delivery: 4 to 6 weeks
  • Urgent production options available

Standards & Equivalents

  • BS1400: AB3
  • Closest International Equivalent:
  • UNS C95800 (Nickel-Aluminium Bronze) or DIN 1709 G-CuAl10Ni5Fe5

Why Choose Conex Metals for AB3 Aluminium Bronze?

At Conex Metals, we understand that marine applications demand more than ordinary bronze — they require proven alloys that deliver years of reliable service in severe environmental conditions. Our deep metallurgical knowledge, modern foundry practices, and precision machining allow us to deliver world-class AB3 components trusted by leading marine, offshore, and industrial manufacturers. Whether you require:

  • One-off large marine castings
  • Production runs of machined AB3 bushings
  • Full assemblies for pumps, valves, and propulsion systems

Conex Metals is your trusted supplier for BS1400 AB3 Aluminium Bronze Marine Alloys.