Rose's metal

Rose's metal, Rose metal or Rose's alloy is a fusible alloy with a low melting point. Its melting point is between 94°C and 98°C. The alloy does not contract on cooling.

Uses

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, typically 220°C and higher.
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 the Rose's metal is remelted and removed, leaving the pipe or tube in its modified shape.

Hazards

The metal is safe for external contact, but toxic if ingested. Inhalation is unlikely because Rose's metal is sufficiently soft that dust is not usually produced.

Composition

Rose's metal consists of 50% bismuth, 25–28% lead and 22–25% tin.