Precision meets tradition and performance. Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, is one of the most machinable and versatile materials available for CNC machining. Its excellent combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and natural lubricity makes it a top choice for components that require precision, durability, and aesthetic appeal. From intricate electrical parts to robust plumbing fittings, CNC machining unlocks the full potential of brass, delivering parts with tight tolerances and superior surface finishes right off the machine.
KEY BENEFITS
Brass offers a unique set of advantages that make it ideal for a wide range of precision machining applications.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Excellent Machinability | Brass is known for its high machinability rating (100% for C36000 Free-Cutting Brass). It allows for high-speed machining, lower tool wear, and the production of small, delicate chips, resulting in faster cycle times and reduced production costs. |
| Superior Corrosion Resistance | Naturally resistant to corrosion from water, salts, and many chemicals, making it perfect for marine, plumbing, and outdoor applications. It develops a protective patina over time. |
| High Strength & Durability | Offers a great strength-to-weight ratio and good tensile strength, providing long-term reliability and wear resistance for dynamic components. |
| Natural Lubricity | The inherent lubricity of brass reduces friction and galling, which is critical for valves, fittings, and gears. This often eliminates the need for additional coatings or lubricants. |
| Excellent Electrical Conductivity | A highly efficient conductor of electricity, making it the material of choice for electrical connectors, terminals, and RFI/EMI shielding components. |
| Aesthetic Appeal | Possesses a classic, gold-like appearance that is both professional and attractive. It can be easily polished, plated, or coated to achieve various finishes. |
| 100% Recyclable | Brass is a sustainable material, as it can be recycled repeatedly without any loss of its chemical or physical properties. |
APPLICATIONS
CNC machined brass components are critical in industries where reliability, precision, and corrosion resistance are non-negotiable.
| Industry | Application Examples | Common Parts |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing & Fluid Systems | Valves, faucets, pipe fittings, compression connectors, manifolds. | Fittings, Valve Bodies, Nozzles, Stem Assemblies |
| Electrical & Electronics | Connectors, terminals, sockets, switch components, RFI shielding. | Terminal Blocks, Connector Housings, Heat Sink Cores |
| Marine & Offshore | Underwater instrumentation, boat fittings, pump components, navigational equipment. | Propeller Bushings, Sensor Housings, Marine Hardware |
| Automotive | Fuel system components, sensor bodies, pneumatic valves, decorative emblems. | Fuel Injection Parts, Pressure Sensor Fittings, Gears |
| Consumer Goods | Musical instruments, locks, door handles, precision scales, and high-end accessories. | Instrument Valves, Lock Cylinders, Decorative Inlays |
| Aerospace & Defense | Pneumatic and hydraulic systems, instrumentation, communication devices. | Couplings, Manifold Blocks, Waveguide Components |
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Here is a comparison of the most frequently used brass alloys in CNC machining.
| Property / Alloy | C36000 (Free-Cutting Brass) | C26000 (Cartridge Brass) | C38500 (Architectural Bronze) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Common Name | Free-Cutting Brass | Cartridge Brass, 70/30 Brass | Architectural Bronze, Leaded Muntz Metal |
| Composition | Cu 60.0-63.0%, Pb 2.5-3.7%, Zn Rem. | Cu 68.5-71.5%, Zn Rem. | Cu 55.0-59.0%, Pb 1.5-2.5%, Zn Rem. |
| Machinability (%) | 100% (Industry Standard) | 30% | 80% |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 310 – 469 | 325 – 410 | 340 – 480 |
| Yield Strength (MPa) | 125 (min) | 105 – 305 | 124 (min) |
| Elongation (% in 2″) | 25 – 53 | 48 – 65 | 25 – 45 |
| Hardness (Rockwell) | B65 – B78 | B55 – B80 | B70 – B80 |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Primary Applications | Best for high-volume, complex parts. Screws, gears, fittings, valves. | Best for cold-forming and high-ductility needs. Springs, cartridge cases, electrical sockets. | Excellent for hot-forming and structural parts. Architectural trim, marine hardware, nuts, bolts. |