Yes. SAE 660 and UNS C93200 refer to the same high-leaded tin bearing bronze. SAE 660 is the familiar SAE designation, while C93200 is the UNS alloy number. C932, CDA 932 and 83-7-7-3 are also used for this material.
However, these names identify an alloy—not a complete finished-bushing specification. Casting method, product standard, dimensions, tolerances, lubrication features and inspection requirements still need to be confirmed before a C93200 bronze bushing is ordered.
SAE 660, C93200, C932 and 83-7-7-3 Explained
For purchasing and replacement work, these names point to the same bearing bronze family:
| Name | What it means |
|---|---|
| SAE 660 | Traditional SAE designation used on drawings |
| UNS C93200 | Unified Numbering System alloy designation |
| C932 or CDA 932 | Common shortened commercial names |
| 83-7-7-3 bronze | Nominal shorthand for roughly 83% copper, 7% tin, 7% lead and 3% zinc |
If an old drawing requests SAE 660 bronze and a supplier proposes C93200 bronze, the alloy reference is normally consistent. C93200 is also the usual answer when buyers search for an SAE 660 bronze equivalent. Check the complete standard before approval.
The Copper Development Association classifies C93200 as a cast high-leaded tin bronze. [^1]
Its main bearing bronze composition ranges are:
| Element | Range by weight |
|---|---|
| Copper | 81–85% |
| Tin | 6.3–7.5% |
| Lead | 6–8% |
| Zinc | 1–4% |
The copper-tin matrix provides strength and wear resistance, while the lead phase supports machinability, conformability and resistance to seizure. This balance makes high-leaded tin bronze useful for sleeves, flanged bushings, thrust washers and other bearing parts under suitable conditions.
Do not treat “bearing bronze” as one universal grade. C83600, C93200 and C93700 have different chemistry and service characteristics.
Why the Same Alloy Name Is Not a Complete Bushing Specification
Two parts of this alloy can still be supplied differently. One may be machined from continuous-cast tube; another may be centrifugally cast. Section size, casting condition and product standard can change the property and inspection requirements.
ASTM B505/B505M covers continuously cast copper-alloy rod, bar, tube and shapes. [^2]
ASTM B271/B271M covers copper-base alloy centrifugal castings. [^3]
A generic SAE 660 bronze properties table therefore cannot guarantee every finished part. Strength, hardness and elongation should be tied to the casting condition, product form and governing standard.
For a reliable C93200 bronze bushing quotation, provide:
- the complete drawing or an identifiable replacement sample;
- finished ID, OD, length, flange dimensions and tolerances;
- quantity and required delivery condition;
- oil grooves, lubrication holes or other machined features;
- the required ASTM, SAE or customer specification;
- load, speed, shaft material and lubrication method when material selection is not finalized;
- material certificates, dimensional reports or other inspection requirements.
Avoid approving a substitution from color, appearance or a shortened name alone. If a drawing states only “SAE 660,” the supplier should confirm the intended product standard and acceptance requirements before production.
Need a Custom SAE 660 / C93200 Bronze Bushing?
JEDBUSHING manufactures custom leaded bronze bushings from drawings or samples, including sleeves, flanged bushings, thrust components and special parts with custom grooves, holes and fitting details.
Send us your drawing, quantity, material requirement and inspection needs. We can review the alloy designation, casting route, machining details and documentation requirements before quotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SAE 660 the same as SAE 841 oil-impregnated bronze?
No. SAE 660 normally refers to cast C93200 leaded tin bronze. SAE 841 normally refers to a porous, sintered bronze bearing material that stores oil within its structure. They use different manufacturing methods and should not be substituted without an engineering review.
Can C93200 replace C83600 or C93700?
Not automatically. These alloys differ in tin, lead and zinc content as well as strength, machinability and bearing behavior. Compare the governing standard, load, speed, shaft condition, lubrication and environment before approving a replacement.
Does an SAE 660 bronze bushing always require lubrication?
C93200 should not be assumed to be self-lubricating. Most applications require an appropriate oil or grease system, although grooves, plugs or other lubrication features may be added to a particular bushing design.
Can SAE 660 be used in food, potable-water or other lead-restricted applications?
Do not assume compliance. C93200 contains intentionally added lead, so the buyer must check the applicable regulation, customer specification and exposure conditions. A lead-free copper alloy may be required for some projects.
Sources
- C93200 Alloy – Copper Development Association — Supports the alloy classification and chemical composition ranges.
- ASTM B505/B505M-23 – Copper Alloy Continuous Castings — Supports the scope of the continuous-casting product standard.
- ASTM B271/B271M-23 – Copper-Base Alloy Centrifugal Castings — Supports the distinction between centrifugal and continuous cast supply conditions.