Rose's Metal
Specifications ( Property Data Sheet )
Rose's metal, Rose metal or Rose's alloy is a fusible alloy with a low melting point. The alloy does not contract on cooling.
Rose's Metal DiscoveryValentin Rose the Elder, the German pharmacist and chemist, was the first person to discover this fusible alloy. The metal was then named “Rose's Metal” after its discoverer. Valentin Rose the Elder was also the grandfather of Heinrich Rose, the re-discoverer of the chemical element Niobium (Nb).
Rose Metal As a Fusible AlloyRose metal can be very conveniently used as a fusible metal. Fusible alloy are metal alloys that have a low melting point. Metal work pieces are joined together by a solder. Alloys with low melting points are used in the process of soldering so that they can join the work pieces in use by melting. As they melt in a very low temperature, the work pieces remain unaffected. Metals with a melting point between 90°C to 450°C are typically used as a solder. Soldering is mainly used in electronics and plumbing. The Rose metal alloy has a very low melting point. The alloy melts in 100°C or 212°F. That is why it is very useful as a fusible alloy and is used as a solder.
Designation Alloy Melting Point Shape
Celsius Fahrenheit
Rose's Metal 98°C 208 °F Bar
Rose's Metal 98°C 208 °F Block
Rose's Metal 98°C 208 °F Granule
Rose's Metal 98°C 208 °F Ingot
Rose's Metal 98°C 208 °F Lump
Rose's Metal 98°C 208 °F Metallurgy
Rose's Metal 98°C 208 °F Rod
Rose's Metal 98°C 208 °F Slab
Chemistry Data
Element Symbol Content (%)
Bismuth Bi 50% - 55%
Lead Pb 25% - 28
Tin Sn 22% - 25%
Related Metals
Equivalent Name
Uses (Application)
Rose's metal has several common uses:
1) As a solder. It was used to secure cast iron railings and balusters in pockets in stone bases and steps.
2) As a heat transfer medium in heating baths.3) As a malleable filling to prevent tubes and pipes from crimping when bent. Rose's metal is melted and poured into the tube. It then solidifies in place but remains malleable. This allows the tube or pipe to be bent and reworked without crimping. After the desired shape is achieved the Rose's metal is remelted and removed, leaving the pipe or tube in its modified shape.
Notes
Store in cool place. Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Store away from strong oxidizing agents, halogens, interhalogens.