The combination is also resistant to corrosion, and it fights off disruptive organisms like algae and mussels. Bronze and its aluminum alloy are tarnish-resistant and benefit from low oxidation rates at high temperatures. It's one of the more widely used marine metals.Īpplications: Shipbuilding, docks, boat hulls, shipyard infrastructure BronzeĪluminum-bronze and silicon-bronze were created for marine use.
Aluminum optimizes its corrosion resistance by mixing chromium, magnesium, or silicon alloys. The metal is frequently used to build the body of a ship.
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Unlike other metal alloys, copper's alloys contribute a high resistance to biofouling, meaning damage to piping caused by organisms such as barnacles and algae.Īpplications: Tubing, water lines, heat exchange tubes, valves, desalination equipment AluminumĪluminum offers tremendous strength and durability, plus it's a lower weight option compared to steel. That's why it often relies on elements like nickel and manganese to strengthen its durability. However, copper is not the strongest metal. It's commonly used for underwater tubing. Brass can withstand extreme heat as well, making it useful in piping or as a condenser.Īpplications: Shafting, piping, marine fasteners, motors, pumpsĬopper provides good corrosion resistance and ductility. Tin and zinc improve corrosion resistance, while lead enhances the metal's maneuverability. Marine brass – also referred to as naval brass – often blends with tin, zinc, or lead to improve its sea qualities.
It needs the assistance of alloys such as chromium and manganese to ensure the appropriate strength and corrosion resistance.Īpplications: Boat propeller shafts, storage vessels, marine fittings, shipbuilding Brass In addition, type 316 contains notable contents of molybdenum and nickel, giving it a better overall corrosion resistance than 304.Ĭarbon steel, in certain forms, passes the saltwater test. Stainless steel type 304 is the most versatile and widely used, as it minimizes carbide precipitation and can withstand scorching temperatures. The higher the percentage of molybdenum, the better. Stainless steel contains molybdenum, which helps resist the corrosive effects of saltwater, pitting in particular. Stainless, galvanized, carbon, and alloy steel are all suitable for marine use. These are the metals and metal alloys that have the best chance to withstand the threats of the open sea. That's why cargo ships, naval ships, and cruise ships must be built with durable marine grade metals. It wears down metal over time through pressure, corrosion, and bacteria growth.