Quick Look

DensityMelting PointThermal ConductivityElectrical ConductivityCoefficient of Expansion
8.4-8.7 g/cm³900-940°C110-120 W/m·K15-20 MS/m19-21 µm/m·K

About the Material

Materials We Support:

ASTMDINGBDensity (g/cm³)HardnessTensile Strength,Yield (MPa)Fatigue Strength (Mpa)Elongation at Break (%)
C280CuZn40H598.580~120 HB250~400150~25020~30
C2802.0360H628.580~120 HB230~380150~22020~30
C37710CuZn40Pb2&2.0380HPb59-18.5100~120 HB350~450180~23020~30
C371CuZn39Pb0.5HPb61-18.5120~170 HB350~450180~25020~30
C464CuZn39SnHSn62-18.54130~170 HB350~500180~25020~40

Advantages:

  1. Machinability: Brass is one of the easiest metals to machine, leading to faster production and lower costs.

  2. Corrosion Resistance: Brass is naturally resistant to corrosion, especially in water, making it ideal for marine and plumbing applications.

  3. Attractive Finish: The bright, gold-like appearance of brass makes it desirable for decorative applications.

  4. Electrical Conductivity: Brass alloys offer good electrical conductivity, useful for connectors and terminals.

Limitations:

  1. Material Cost: Brass can be more expensive compared to other metals like aluminum or steel.

  2. Softness: Brass is relatively soft, which makes it more prone to scratches and dents compared to harder metals.

  3. Weight: Brass is heavier than some alternative materials, which may be a limitation in weight-sensitive applications.

Chemical Composition Table for Brass Alloys

ElementTypical Percentage (%)
Copper (Cu)55-70
Zinc (Zn)30-40
Lead (Pb)≤ 3.0
Tin (Sn)≤ 1.0
Iron (Fe)≤ 0.1

Mechanical Machining Properties Table for Brass Alloys

PropertyValue
Machinability RatingExcellent
Cutting Speed (m/min)250-350
Tool Wear ResistanceHigh
Coolant RequirementOptional
Surface Finish QualityHigh

Design Parameters Table for CNC Machining Brass Alloys

Maximum   Bulid Size (mm)Minimum Wall   Thickness (mm)Minimum   Assembly Gap (mm)Tolerance (mm)Minimum End   Mill Size (mm)Minimum Drill   Size (mm)
850x500x50010.01Minimum 0.0110.5

Industry Applications and Case Studies for CNC Machining Brass Alloys

  1. Plumbing Industry:

    • Application: Production of fittings, valves, and connectors.

    • Case Study: A plumbing manufacturer used CNC machining to produce brass valves, providing durability and corrosion resistance in water systems.

  2. Electronics Industry:

    • Application: Manufacturing of electrical connectors, terminals, and components.

    • Case Study: An electronics company utilized CNC machining to create brass connectors, ensuring good electrical conductivity and reliability.

  3. Decorative and Architectural:

    • Application: Production of door handles, light fixtures, and architectural trim.

    • Case Study: An architectural firm used CNC machining to produce intricate brass door handles, adding an elegant finish to the project.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about CNC Machining Brass Alloys

  1. What are the benefits of using brass alloys in CNC machining?

    • Brass alloys offer excellent machinability, corrosion resistance, and an attractive finish, making them suitable for a variety of applications.

  2. Is CNC machining suitable for high-volume brass alloy production?

    • Yes, CNC machining is effective for both prototyping and high-volume production of brass components.

  3. What industries benefit from CNC machining brass alloys?

    • Industries such as plumbing, electronics, and architecture benefit from brass's properties.

  4. How does brass compare to bronze in terms of machinability?

    • Brass is generally easier to machine compared to bronze, with less tool wear and faster cutting speeds.

  5. What are the limitations of using brass alloys in CNC machining?

    • Limitations include higher material costs and susceptibility to scratches and dents due to its softness.

  6. Can brass alloys be polished for a better finish?

    • Yes, brass alloys can be polished to achieve a high-quality, shiny finish suitable for decorative purposes.

  7. What tolerances can be achieved with CNC machining brass alloys?

    • Typical tolerances are ±0.08 mm, depending on the specific requirements of the part.

Finishing Options

Name
Colors
Can Be Applied with
Passivating
-
Enhances corrosion resistance by creating a protective oxide layer on the surface, which helps prevent further oxidation and tarnishing.
Powder Coating
Provides a wide range of colors
Provides a protective coating that improves corrosion resistance and can give a uniform, colored finish.
Electropolishing
Results in a shiny, bright finish
Enhances surface smoothness and brightness, removing surface oxides and improving the appearance.
Zinc Plating
Gray or blue
Provides significant corrosion protection, extending the material's durability and preventing rust.
Silver Plating
Silver
Enhances corrosion resistance, provides a conductive layer, and offers a decorative, reflective finish.
Gold Plating
Gold
Provides a decorative gold finish with enhanced corrosion resistance and improved aesthetic appeal.
Electroless Nickel Plating
Metallic silver or gray
Enhances corrosion resistance and surface hardness, and provides a uniform, adherent coating that improves wear resistance.
Bead Blasting
-
Results in a frosted, matte surface, which can enhance the appearance by providing a uniform texture.
Tempering
-
Alters strength, hardness, and ductility.

Parts Made by AutofabX

CNC Brass Alloys
CNC Brass Alloys