The Enduring Strength of Silicon Bronze
At Blacksand Bronze, we craft objects of permanence—hardware designed to be held, shaped by use, and made to last. Silicon bronze is at the core of our ethos, chosen for its unmatched resilience, raw beauty, and ability to patina gracefully over time. Every piece we create is a reflection of this material’s enduring strength, embracing the elements rather than resisting them. Whether set against the coastal air or the wear of daily touch, our solid bronze hardware is designed to age with character, becoming richer with time.
Why Bronze?
At Blacksand Bronze, our bronze, rich in copper, is the ideal material for architectural hardware. We’ve designed our products with two priorities in mind: the environment they live in and the people who use them. This results in hardware that excels in both corrosion resistance and strength, particularly in coastal environments where durability is key.
Natural Antimicrobial Protection
The high copper content in our bronze offers more than just strength—it provides natural antimicrobial protection. This crucial feature adds an extra layer of safety in daily use, making our hardware not just a functional choice but a healthier one.
Built to Last
Our hardware is designed to be an integral part of your everyday life. The materials we use are carefully selected to ensure that they not only withstand the test of time but also enhance the spaces they occupy.
Brass vs. Silicon Bronze: Understanding the Differences
Brass and bronze are both copper alloys, but they differ significantly in their composition and performance. Brass was developed as a more affordable alternative to pure copper, combining copper with zinc (and sometimes lead) to reduce costs. However, zinc is reactive, leading to issues like zincification, which causes deterioration and reduced durability. Lead in brass alloys can also contribute to corrosion over time.
In contrast, silicon bronze is a high-copper alloy known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and tensile strength. The alloying elements combined with copper enhance the material’s durability and performance, ensuring it withstands heavy loads and stresses while maintaining its aesthetic appeal over time. Notably, silicon bronze is endorsed by the New Zealand Building Code (NZS 3604:2011) for use in cladding and bracing applications, highlighting its reliability and suitability for demanding environments. This is one of the many reasons we choose to solely work in silicon bronze.
