Purple Copper (Phosphor Bronze): Purple copper, also known as phosphor bronze, is an alloy composed primarily of copper with a small percentage of tin and phosphorous. The addition of phosphorous improves the alloy's strength, hardness, and corrosion resistance. Phosphor bronze has a distinctive reddish-brown color and is known for its excellent mechanical properties.

The unique properties of phosphor bronze make it suitable for various applications. Firstly, its high strength and wear resistance make it ideal for manufacturing springs, electrical contacts, and connectors. The alloy's ability to withstand fatigue and creep ensures its longevity and reliability in demanding conditions. Secondly, phosphor bronze's corrosion resistance makes it suitable for marine environments, where it is used in shipbuilding, propellers, and underwater equipment. Additionally, phosphor bronze is utilized in musical instruments, such as cymbals and bells, due to its unique sound qualities.

Yellow Brass (Cartridge Brass): Yellow brass, commonly known as cartridge brass or 260 brass, is an alloy composed of copper and zinc. It is characterized by its bright yellow color and excellent formability. The zinc content in yellow brass provides increased strength and hardness compared to pure copper.

Due to its desirable properties, yellow brass finds applications in various industries. One of its primary uses is in the production of ammunition casings, which is why it is often referred to as cartridge brass. The alloy's ability to be easily shaped and formed makes it suitable for manufacturing components such as valves, fittings, and plumbing fixtures. Yellow brass is also utilized in musical instruments, decorative items, and jewelry due to its aesthetic appeal and malleability.

Bronze: Bronze is a broad term used to describe a range of copper alloys that usually contain tin as the primary alloying element. The exact composition of bronze can vary, resulting in different properties and applications. Bronze alloys generally exhibit excellent strength, durability, and corrosion resistance.

Bronze has a wide range of applications across various industries. It is commonly used in the manufacturing of bearings, bushings, and other machine parts due to its low friction and excellent wear resistance. Bronze is also employed in sculpture casting, architectural decorations, and coinage due to its desirable aesthetic qualities. Additionally, bronze can be found in electrical connectors, marine fittings, and musical instruments such as saxophones and cymbals.

In conclusion, purple copper (phosphor bronze), yellow brass (cartridge brass), and bronze are three common copper alloys with distinct characteristics and applications. Phosphor bronze offers high strength, corrosion resistance, and is used in springs, electrical contacts, and marine equipment. Yellow brass provides good formability, strength, and is used in ammunition casings, valves, and decorative items. Bronze, with its various compositions, exhibits excellent strength, wear resistance, and is utilized in bearings, sculpture casting, and electrical connectors.