HAIXIANG METAL

What Is Brass?

Like copper, brass is a non-ferrous, red metal. Unlike the pure metal, however, it is a metal alloy that primarily consists of copper and zinc. Other metals—such as lead, tin, iron, aluminum, silicon, and manganese—are also added to produce more unique combinations of characteristics.

The addition of zinc enhances the strength and ductility of the base copper material. The higher the concentration of zinc, the stronger and more pliable the alloy. High-strength brass contains ≥39% zinc.

Properties of Brass

As a copper-alloy, brass demonstrates many of the properties characteristic of copper. However, the alloy does exhibit a few distinct properties compared to pure copper and other copper alloys. For example:

• Susceptibility to stress-cracking. As brass is stronger and stiffer than pure copper, it is more susceptible to developing stress cracks.

• Malleability and formability. Compared to bronze, brass is more malleable. Additionally, it is easy to cast or work.

• High melting point. Brass has a melting point of approximately 900°C. The exact melting point differs based on the concentration of different metals in the alloy.

• Non-ferromagnetic. As brass is not ferromagnetic, it is much easier to process for recycling.

Depending on the additional metals added to the alloy, it can demonstrate varying characteristics, such as a variable melting point or greater corrosion resistance (due to the presence of manganese).

Available Grades of Brass

Brass is available in a variety of grades, each of which is characterized by the exact material makeup. At Sequoia Brass & Copper, we provide these six grades of brass:

• UNS C26000. Also known as cartridge brass, C26000 alloy demonstrates good cold working properties. It is suitable for use in ammunitions, automobiles, fasteners, and hardware.

• UNS C27200. This alloy—also referred to as yellow brass—consists of 33% zinc. It is typically used in industrial and architectural applications.

• UNS C33000 Brass alloy 330 is suitable for application where high machinability is critical. It contains a low lead content sufficient for cold-working and is commonly used to produce pipes.

• UNS C35300. Alloy C35300 (also referred to as clock brass) is often used to fabricate precision components, such as clock and watch parts, because of its excellent machinability.

• UNS c36000. Also known as free cutting brass, this alloy is the most common type of brass. It exhibits excellent machinability and formability, as well as suitability for soldering and brazing operations. It commonly finds application in the manufacture of hardware components, fittings, valves, and fasteners.

• UNS C38500. Also known as architectural bronze this alloy can be used for construction & architectural applications. Alloy 385 is available in a wide variety of extruded & drawn shapes such as angles, channels, square tube, hand rail moulding & more.

• UNS C48200 – C48500. Leaded naval brass meanto for machining. Typically available in rounds.

• UNS C46400. Alloy C46400 (or naval brass) is known for its excellent resistance to corrosion from seawater across a wide range of temperatures. Additionally, it demonstrates suitability for hot forming and hot forming, as well as drawing, bending, heading, soldering, brazing, and welding.