Brass
Copper-zinc alloy with excellent machinability, electrical conductivity, and corrosion resistance. Ideal for fittings, connectors, and decorative hardware.
About Brass
Brass is a copper-zinc alloy renowned for its exceptional machinability — free-cutting brass (C360) is the benchmark material by which all others are rated for machinability (100% rating). This makes brass one of the most cost-effective materials for high-volume turned and machined parts.
Beyond machinability, brass offers good electrical and thermal conductivity, natural antimicrobial properties, and an attractive gold-like appearance that makes it popular for decorative hardware. Its corrosion resistance in freshwater and atmospheric conditions is excellent, though it can suffer dezincification in aggressive marine environments.
FabRapid machines brass alloys including C260 (cartridge brass), C360 (free-cutting), and C464 (naval brass) for applications ranging from plumbing fittings and electrical connectors to musical instrument components and architectural hardware.
Material Properties
Available Alloy Grades
C360 (Free-Cutting)
The highest machinability rating of any copper alloy. Lead content provides excellent chip breaking for high-speed automated machining.
Screw machine parts, fittings, connectors, valve stems, gears
C260 (Cartridge Brass)
70/30 copper-zinc alloy with excellent cold-working properties and deep drawing capability.
Ammunition cases, radiator components, springs, hinges
C464 (Naval Brass)
Tin-modified brass with superior resistance to dezincification and seawater corrosion.
Marine hardware, propeller shafts, pump components, marine fasteners
Compatible Manufacturing Processes
Brass can be processed using these manufacturing methods.
Available Surface Finishes
Surface treatments compatible with Brass.
Common Applications
Design Guidelines for Brass
Brass machines easily — take advantage by specifying tighter tolerances at minimal cost premium
Minimum wall thickness: 0.4 mm (brass supports very thin walls due to excellent machinability)
For RoHS compliance, specify lead-free brass alternatives like C360-ECO or silicon brass C69300
Brass is ideal for knurling — specify knurl patterns for grip surfaces on brass components
Brass FAQ
Traditional free-cutting brass (C360) contains approximately 3% lead and is exempt under RoHS Annex III for certain applications. For full RoHS compliance, specify lead-free alternatives such as C69300 (silicon brass) or CW724R (eco-brass). These provide good machinability without lead.
Yes. Brass accepts electroplating very well. Common platings include nickel (for corrosion resistance), chrome (for wear and appearance), and gold (for electrical contacts). Brass is one of the easiest substrates to plate due to its surface properties.
Brass is a copper-zinc alloy optimized for machinability and appearance. Bronze is a copper-tin alloy optimized for wear resistance and bearing applications. Bronze has better wear resistance and lower friction, while brass offers superior machinability and a more golden color.
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