Brass Grades

Brass is a metal alloy primarily made of copper and zinc, with varying proportions of each. The proportions of copper and zinc can affect the properties of the brass, such as its color, strength, and corrosion resistance


  • Composition: Brass typically consists of 55-95% copper and 5-45% zinc. The exact ratio determines the alloy's properties
    •          Copper (Cu) provides good corrosion resistance and electrical conductivity.
    •          Zinc (Zn)Zinc gives the alloy strength and makes it easier to cast.
  • Properties:
    • ColorThe color of brass ranges from a yellow-golden hue to a reddish tinge, depending on the zinc content. Higher zinc content often results in a paler color, while more copper gives a redder or warmer tone.
    • Strength and DurabilityBrass is generally strong and durable, though it can be more brittle if zinc content is high.


C26000 Brass Alloy

Introduction

C26000 Brass, also known as Cartridge Brass, is a copper-zinc alloy with approximately 70-80% copper and 20-30% zinc. It is widely used in electrical, machinery, and architectural applications due to its excellent formability, corrosion resistance, and strength. This alloy is particularly used in sheet metal, forgings, drawn wire, and other industrial components that require a good balance of strength and malleability.

Key Properties
Property Value
Primary Alloying Elements Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn)
Tensile Strength Approx. 370–510 MPa (53,500–74,000 psi) depending on temper
Yield Strength Approx. 170–275 MPa (24,700–39,900 psi) depending on temper
Corrosion Resistance Good corrosion resistance, especially in freshwater, marine environments, and mild acids. However, it can be prone to stress corrosion cracking in ammonia-rich environments.
Conductivity Good electrical and thermal conductivity, making it suitable for electrical applications.
Formability Excellent formability, including good machinability, drawability, and weldability.
Applications Electrical connectors, cartridge cases, hardware, musical instruments, architectural elements.
Standards for C26000 Brass Alloy

C26000 Brass Alloy is produced and meets specific standards to ensure uniformity and reliability. Common standards include:

Standard Specification
ASTM B16 Standard Specification for Free-Cutting Brass Rod, Bar, and Shapes
ASTM B124 Standard Specification for Copper and Copper-Alloy Forging Rods, Bars, and Shapes
ASTM B453 Standard Specification for Copper and Copper-Alloy Forging Wire
UNS C26000 Unified Numbering System for Brass (Cartridge Brass)

Applications of C26000 Brass Alloy

C26000 Brass is used in various industries, particularly where high strength, corrosion resistance, and formability are required. Some of its major applications include:

  • Electrical Components: Due to its good electrical conductivity, C26000 brass is used in electrical connectors, terminals, and contact points in electrical and telecommunications applications.
  • Cartridge Cases: C26000 brass is used in ammunition for manufacturing cartridge cases due to its excellent formability and ability to withstand high pressure and stresses.
  • Musical Instruments: C26000 brass is commonly used for making brass instruments like trumpets, trombones, and saxophones due to its acoustic properties and workability.
  • Architectural Applications: The alloy’s attractive appearance and resistance to corrosion make it ideal for architectural elements such as doors, windows, wall cladding, and decorative finishes.
  • General Hardware: C26000 is used in the production of nuts, bolts, washers, and other general hardware due to its ease of machining and high strength.

Advantages of C26000 Brass Alloy
  • Good Corrosion Resistance: C26000 has good resistance to freshwater, marine environments, and mild acids, making it suitable for use in harsh environments such as marine and electrical industries.
  • Excellent Formability: C26000 brass has excellent formability, allowing it to be easily shaped into intricate components using processes like pressing, drawing, and forging.
  • High Strength: This alloy offers high tensile strength and yield strength, making it suitable for applications that require strength and durability without compromising on formability.
  • Good Electrical Conductivity: Its high electrical conductivity makes it ideal for electrical connectors and telecommunications components.
  • Machinability: C26000 brass is easy to machine, which makes it ideal for mass production of precision parts.


C27000 Brass Alloy

C27000, also known as Yellow Brass, is a copper-zinc alloy containing approximately 70% copper and 30% zinc. It is one of the most commonly used brass alloys due to its excellent combination of strength, formability, and corrosion resistance. C27000 is widely used in a variety of applications ranging from decorative items to industrial machinery parts.


Key Properties
Property Value
Primary Alloying Elements Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn)
Tensile Strength Approx. 450–620 MPa (65,000–90,000 psi) depending on temper
Yield Strength Approx. 200–275 MPa (29,000–40,000 psi) depending on temper
Corrosion Resistance Good resistance to marine environments, freshwater, and mild acids. Susceptible to stress corrosion cracking in ammonia and high-alkaline environments.
Conductivity Good electrical and thermal conductivity, suitable for electrical applications.
Formability Excellent machinability, weldability, and drawability.
Applications Marine hardware, shipbuilding, marine engines, architectural components, industrial machinery.
Standards for C27000 Brass Alloy

C27000 Brass Alloy is produced and conforms to industry standards to ensure its quality and reliability. Common standards include:

Standard Specification
ASTM B22 Standard Specification for Bronze and Brass Rod, Bar, and Shapes
ASTM B134 Standard Specification for Copper and Copper-Alloy Forging Rods, Bars, and Shapes
ASTM B36 Standard Specification for Copper and Copper-Alloy Sheet and Strip for Building Construction
UNS C27000 Unified Numbering System for Muntz Metal (C27000 Brass)

Applications of C27000 Brass Alloy

C27000 Brass is widely used in environments where both corrosion resistance and strength are important. Some of the key applications of this alloy include:

  • Marine Applications: Due to its resistance to seawater corrosion, C27000 brass is commonly used for marine hardware, including propellers, marine engines, ship hulls, and valves.
  • Industrial Machinery: C27000 is used in industrial machinery and machine parts, such as gears, pumps, and fittings, because of its strength, ductility, and resistance to wear.
  • Architectural Applications: C27000 brass is also used for decorative architectural components such as door hardware, furnishings, and cladding due to its attractive golden appearance and durability.
  • Electrical Components: With its good electrical conductivity, C27000 brass is used in electrical connectors, terminals, and other electrical components that require both conductivity and corrosion resistance.

Advantages of C27000 Brass Alloy
  • Good Corrosion Resistance: Excellent resistance to marine environments, freshwater, and mild acids, making it ideal for marine and seawater applications.
  • Excellent Formability: C27000 brass can be easily machined, forged, and welded, making it a versatile material for many industrial applications.
  • High Strength: Offers a good combination of strength and ductility, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications.
  • Attractive Appearance: The alloy has a distinctive golden-yellow color, which is visually appealing, making it a popular choice for architectural and decorative elements.
  • Good Electrical Conductivity: Suitable for electrical and telecommunications applications due to its good conductivity.


C28000 Brass Alloy

Introduction

C28000 Brass, commonly referred to as Commercial Bronze, is a copper-zinc alloy with approximately 90% copper and 10% zinc, along with small amounts of other elements such as lead or tin for specific properties. This alloy is known for its high strength, excellent corrosion resistance, and good formability. It is widely used in marine, industrial, and architectural applications where strength and durability are critical.

Key Properties
Property Value
Primary Alloying Elements Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn)
Tensile Strength Approx. 450–550 MPa (65,000–80,000 psi) depending on temper
Yield Strength Approx. 220–300 MPa (31,900–43,500 psi) depending on temper
Corrosion Resistance Excellent resistance to marine environments, freshwater, and mild acids. Susceptible to stress corrosion cracking in ammonia or high-alkaline environments.
Conductivity Good electrical and thermal conductivity, suitable for electrical components.
Formability Good machinability, weldability, and formability.
Applications Marine hardware, shipbuilding, valves, pumps, architectural components.
Standards for C28000 Brass Alloy

C28000 Brass Alloy conforms to industry standards for quality and consistency. Common standards include:

Standard Specification
ASTM B22 Standard Specification for Bronze and Brass Rod, Bar, and Shapes
ASTM B16 Standard Specification for Free-Cutting Brass Rod and Bar
ASTM B271 Standard Specification for Copper and Copper-Alloy Pipe and Tube
UNS C28000 Unified Numbering System for Commercial Bronze (C28000 Brass)
Applications of C28000 Brass Alloy

C28000 Brass is commonly used in environments where corrosion resistance, strength, and workability are essential. Here are some of its major applications:

  • Marine Applications: C28000 brass is frequently used in marine hardware such as valves, pumps, and marine fittings due to its excellent resistance to seawater corrosion.
  • Industrial Machinery: This alloy is used in industrial components such as gears, bushings, bearings, and fittings due to its strength and good machinability.
  • Architectural Applications: Its attractive color and corrosion resistance make C28000 brass ideal for architectural finishes such as door hardware, cladding, and decorative elements.
  • Electrical Components: C28000 brass is used for electrical connectors, terminals, and other electrical components because of its good electrical conductivity.

Advantages of C28000 Brass Alloy
  • Excellent Corrosion Resistance: C28000 brass offers outstanding resistance to marine environments, freshwater, and mild acids, making it ideal for marine and marine hardware applications.
  • Good Strength: This alloy provides a strong balance of tensile strength and yield strength, making it suitable for high-stress applications.
  • Good Workability: The alloy has good machinability, weldability, and formability, making it easy to process into complex shapes for various applications.
  • Attractive Appearance: The golden-yellow appearance of C28000 brass makes it highly attractive for architectural and decorative applications.
  • Good Electrical Conductivity: C28000 brass maintains good electrical conductivity, making it ideal for use in electrical systems and components.


Grade 1 Brass (C21000)

Grade 1 Brass, also known as C21000 or CuZn5, is a copper-zinc alloy primarily composed of 95% copper and 5% zinc. It is often referred to as Commercial Bronze due to its extensive use in various industrial applications. This alloy is known for its good machinability, excellent corrosion resistance, and moderate strength. Its bright, attractive golden appearance makes it an ideal choice for decorative applications, while its high copper content ensures reliable performance in many environments.

Key Properties
Property Value
Primary Alloying Elements Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn)
Tensile Strength Approx. 400–500 MPa (58,000–72,000 psi) depending on temper
Yield Strength Approx. 150–250 MPa (22,000–36,000 psi) depending on temper
Corrosion Resistance Good resistance to mild acids, freshwater, and marine environments.
Electrical Conductivity Good electrical and thermal conductivity, suitable for electrical components.
Formability Good machinability, weldability, and formability.
Applications Marine hardware, piping systems, automotive components, electrical connectors, decorative elements.
Standards for Grade 1 Brass (C21000)

C21000 Brass (Grade 1 Brass) is produced and conforms to various industry standards for quality assurance. These standards ensure the alloy's reliability and performance in different applications. Some of the commonly referenced standards include:

Standard Specification
ASTM B21 Standard Specification for Copper and Copper-Alloy Rod, Bar, and Shapes for General Engineering Applications
ASTM B22 Standard Specification for Bronze and Brass Rod, Bar, and Shapes
UNS C21000 Unified Numbering System for Grade 1 Brass (C21000)
Applications of Grade 1 Brass (C21000)

Grade 1 Brass (C21000) is widely used in a variety of applications due to its combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and formability. Common applications include:

  • Marine Applications: Grade 1 brass is used in marine hardware such as valves, pumps, and marine engine components due to its good resistance to seawater corrosion.
  • Plumbing and Piping Systems: C21000 brass is often used for piping systems, fittings, and valves because of its ability to withstand both water and mild acids.
  • Automotive and Industrial Components: This alloy is used in automotive components like brake fittings, valves, and connectors due to its durability and ability to perform under pressure.
  • Electrical Components: Its good electrical conductivity makes it suitable for use in electrical connectors, terminals, and switchgear.
  • Decorative Applications: The golden color of C21000 brass makes it an attractive option for decorative elements in architecture and jewelry.

Advantages of Grade 1 Brass (C21000)
  • Good Corrosion Resistance: Grade 1 Brass offers excellent resistance to mild acids, freshwater, and marine environments, making it ideal for marine and plumbing applications.
  • Good Strength and Durability: It combines moderate tensile strength with excellent ductility and formability, making it suitable for many industrial and decorative applications.
  • High Copper Content: The high copper content in Grade 1 Brass enhances its corrosion resistance and overall strength, making it highly reliable in demanding environments.
  • Excellent Workability: C21000 brass is easy to machine, weld, and form, making it suitable for a wide range of manufacturing processes.
  • Attractive Appearance: Its bright golden color gives it aesthetic value, especially for architectural and decorative applications.


Grade 2 Brass (C22000)

Grade 2 Brass, also known as C22000 or CuZn10, is a copper-zinc alloy with 90% copper and 10% zinc. It is a versatile and durable material used in various industrial applications. This alloy is commonly referred to as Red Brass due to its reddish hue. Grade 2 Brass offers good strength, excellent corrosion resistance, and is highly formable, making it ideal for applications in environments where corrosion resistance and strength are required.

Key Properties
Property Value
Primary Alloying Elements Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn)
Tensile Strength Approx. 450–500 MPa (65,000–72,000 psi) depending on temper
Yield Strength Approx. 250–300 MPa (36,000–43,500 psi) depending on temper
Corrosion Resistance Good resistance to freshwater, seawater, and mild acids. Susceptible to stress corrosion cracking in high-alkaline environments.
Electrical Conductivity Good electrical conductivity, suitable for electrical components.
Formability Good machinability, weldability, and formability.
Applications Marine hardware, automotive components, plumbing fittings, electrical connectors.
Standards for Grade 2 Brass (C22000)

C22000 Brass complies with various industry standards to ensure its reliability and performance. Some common standards for this material include:

Standard Specification
ASTM B21 Standard Specification for Copper and Copper-Alloy Rod, Bar, and Shapes for General Engineering Applications
ASTM B22 Standard Specification for Bronze and Brass Rod, Bar, and Shapes
UNS C22000 Unified Numbering System for Grade 2 Brass (C22000)
Applications of Grade 2 Brass (C22000)

Grade 2 Brass (C22000) is commonly used in various industries due to its strength, corrosion resistance, and workability. Some of the primary applications include:

  • Marine Applications: C22000 brass is often used for marine hardware, including valves, pumps, and marine fittings due to its resistance to seawater corrosion.
  • Automotive and Industrial Components: Used for automotive parts, brake fittings, fuel line fittings, and valves due to its good mechanical properties and formability.
  • Plumbing and Piping Systems: Grade 2 brass is used for plumbing and piping components like fittings, valves, and adapters because of its ability to withstand freshwater and mild acid environments.
  • Electrical Components: The alloy is used for electrical connectors, terminals, and switches due to its good electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance.
  • Architectural Applications: It is used in decorative applications like hardware, trim, and cladding for its attractive appearance and good corrosion resistance.

Advantages of Grade 2 Brass (C22000)
  • Good Corrosion Resistance: C22000 Brass offers resistance to freshwater, seawater, and mild acids, making it suitable for marine and plumbing applications.
  • Good Strength and Durability: The alloy has good tensile strength and yield strength, which provides the mechanical properties needed for industrial and automotive components.
  • Excellent Workability: C22000 brass can be easily machined, welded, and formed, making it a popular choice in manufacturing processes.
  • Attractive Appearance: Its reddish-gold color makes it a popular choice for decorative applications in architecture and jewelry.
  • Good Electrical Conductivity: Suitable for use in electrical systems and components due to its reliable conductivity and corrosion resistance.


C36000

C36000 Brass, also known as Free-Cutting Brass, is a highly machinable alloy primarily used for precision components such as fasteners, valves, and automotive parts.


Composition
  • Copper (Cu): 61-64%
  • Zinc (Zn): 35-37%
  • Lead (Pb): 2.5-3.7%

Key Properties
  • Machinability: Excellent for precision machining due to the addition of lead.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Resistant to atmospheric and water corrosion, but not suitable for environments with ammonia or acids.
  • Strength: Moderate strength, sufficient for most industrial applications.
  • Electrical & Thermal Conductivity: Good for use in electrical components and heat exchangers.

Common Applications
  • Automotive Parts: Fittings, valves, and connectors.
  • Plumbing Fittings: Faucets, pipes, and valves.
  • Electronic Components: Connectors, terminals, and electrical components.
  • Fasteners: Bolts, nuts, and screws used in precision applications.