Is Bronze Sculpture Better Than Stainless Steel Sculpture

Bronze sculpture and stainless steel sculpture are the two most common sculptures, which are very popular among people. But they each have their pros and cons, and whether you’re a professional or a sculptor, knowing the differences between bronze and stainless steel could make all the difference in your projects. Let’s take a closer look at these two materials so you could make an informed decision on which one is right for your needs.

What is Bronze

Bronze is an alloy of copper and other trace elements, usually in the proportions of 85% copper, 10% tin, 5% lead and zinc. Due to the poor fluidity of copper itself, it does not flow in the sand shell and wax shell, so it couldnot be poured during the production process. At this time, we add a certain proportion of zinc and tin to copper to enhance the fluidity of copper and facilitate the completion of casting.

Secondly, it is necessary to add a certain proportion of zinc to copper, because zinc could increase the hardness of copper, otherwise copper would be as soft as iron wire, unable to form, let alone make hard sculptures. These combinations create a strong material that is highly resistant to salt water corrosion, making it ideal for outdoor artwork, sculpture, and garden tools. It also has higher strength than brass or copper alloys, and due to its malleability, bronze is also easier to work than other metals.

What is Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is a kind of corrosion-resistant alloy steel, which generally contains more than 12% chromium, or contains nickel, titanium and other elements. This combination forms a metal that is highly resistant to acid, alkali and salt water corrosion, making it ideal for use in food processing equipment or medical devices that may be exposed to corrosive substances. There are mainly 304 stainless steel, 316 stainless steel and 201 stainless steel commonly used to make stainless steel sculptures in factories. But 201 is easy to rust, so it is suitable for sculptures with a relatively low budget.

As a widely used stainless steel, 304 has good corrosion resistance, heat resistance and mechanical properties, without heat treatment hardening. Our commonly used stainless steel thermos cups and stainless steel basins are made of 304. 304 stainless steel with 2% molybdenum is 316 stainless steel. Molybdenum could make stainless steel have stronger corrosion resistance and high temperature strength, and could be used under harsh environmental conditions, and the price is relatively higher.

Bronze Sculpture and Stainless Steel Sculpture Has Different Prices

Bronze and stainless steel are also used to make sculptures at different prices. Bronze sculptures are usually more expensive than stainless steel sculptures due to the higher copper content. However, the price of both metal sculptures may vary depending on market conditions at the time of purchase. Moreover, even if it is also bronze sculpture or stainless steel sculpture, there are high-end and low-end points, and the price should be determined according to the specific situation.

Bronze Sculpture and Stainless Steel Sculpture Has Different Care Methods

Bronze and stainless steel have different maintenance needs. Bronze is a softer metal and more susceptible to scratches and other damage. Therefore, more care is required when cleaning and storing. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is a harder metal and is less prone to damage, making it easier to maintain.

Maintenance Method of Bronze Sculpture

Bronze sculptures should first avoid damp places, because copper is most likely to rust in damp places. If the sculpture is dusty, use a soft brush to gently clean it. Remember not to use a hard cloth or brush to clean it, because hard objects would affect the color of the sculpture and thus affect the appearance. If there are gaps in the sculpture and places that are difficult to clean, you could use an air pump to blow it. Waxing maintenance needs to be done every six months.

Maintenance Method of Stainless Steel Sculpture

Stainless steel sculptures should be cleaned about once or twice a week. The cleaning method is very simple, just wipe gently with a clean cloth dampened with water. Followed by fine cleaning about once a month. Generally speaking, as an ornamental work, the sculpture would not have difficult stains, so it only needs to be wiped once a month with a rag dipped in a neutral detergent and gently wiped with a rag. The stainless steel sculpture should be waxed and protected about once a year.

Choose the Right Material According to Your Actual Situation

Depending on your specific requirements, both bronze and stainless steel are good options for making sculptures. For outdoor applications where salt water corrosion resistance is required, bronze may be the best choice due to its malleability and high corrosion resistance. However, assuming you need something that could withstand constant exposure to corrosive substances like acids or bases, stainless steel may be a better choice due to its superior tensile strength and long-term resistance to rust. Ultimately, it all depends on the type of application you need the metal for, as well as your budget.

YouFine is a Professional Factory

As a professional factory with decades of experience, YouFine would provide you with high-quality sculpture artwork, whether you choose bronze sculpture or stainless steel sculpture. If you don’t know how to choose, we have professional salesmen to provide you with customized services. You only need to tell us your needs and budget, and our salesmen would help you develop a unique sculpture plan and continue to modify it until you are satisfied.