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Brass

Brass is a copper-zinc alloy that combines excellent machinability, moderate strength, and an attractive gold-coloured appearance. It’s one of the easiest metals to machine, making it a favourite for CNC turned components like fittings, valves, and connectors. Different ratios of copper to zinc produce different properties. Higher copper content (like C260, 70/30 brass) gives better corrosion resistance and ductility. Higher zinc content gives higher strength but reduced corrosion resistance.

Key Properties

Density8.4–8.7 g/cm³
Tensile Strength340–470 MPa (depending on alloy and temper)
Melting Point900–940°C
Thermal Conductivity~120 W/m·K
Electrical Conductivity~28% IACS
MagneticNo
AntimicrobialYes (naturally kills bacteria)

Grades

PropertyC360 (Free-Cutting Brass)C260 (Cartridge Brass, 70/30)C280 (Muntz Metal, 60/40)
Tensile Strength400 MPa340 MPa400 MPa
MachinabilityExcellent (100%)FairGood
Corrosion ResistanceGoodExcellentGood
WeldabilityPoorFairFair
Typical UseCNC fittings/valvesFormed/decorative partsMarine/structural

C360 (Free-Cutting Brass)

The standard CNC machining brass. Contains ~3% lead for outstanding machinability — rated 100 on the machinability scale (the reference standard). The go-to for turned fittings, valves, connectors, and bushings.

C260 (Cartridge Brass, 70/30)

Higher copper content gives excellent formability and corrosion resistance. Used for deep-drawn parts, decorative work, marine hardware, and cartridge cases (hence the name).

C280 (Muntz Metal, 60/40)

Higher zinc content gives increased strength. Good for hot forging and structural marine hardware. Commonly used in architectural applications.

Available Thicknesses

Sheet: 0.5mm, 0.8mm, 1.0mm, 1.2mm, 1.6mm, 2.0mm, 3.0mm. Round bar (for CNC turning) widely available from 6mm to 100mm+ diameter.

Fabrication Notes

Brass is outstanding for CNC machining — C360 is the gold standard (literally) for turned components. It chips cleanly, produces excellent surface finishes, and gives long tool life. Laser cutting brass is possible with a fibre laser but challenging due to reflectivity — similar challenges to copper. Brazing and soldering are the preferred joining methods. Silver brazing produces strong, clean joints for plumbing and hydraulic fittings. Welding is generally avoided as zinc vaporisation produces toxic fumes and porous welds.

Surface Finishes

Natural polished, lacquered (to prevent tarnishing), chrome plating, nickel plating, antique/aged patina, tumble finishing, electropolish. Brass tarnishes over time — lacquer or plating is recommended if the bright gold appearance needs to be maintained.

When to Choose Brass

Choose brass for CNC machined fittings, valves, and connectors where machinability is important. Also excellent for decorative hardware, musical instruments, marine fittings, and antimicrobial applications (door handles, touch surfaces). The natural gold colour is often desirable for architectural and decorative work.

Limitations

Contains lead in the free-cutting grades (C360) — not suitable for drinking water contact in some jurisdictions (check local regulations). Heavier than steel or aluminium. More expensive than steel. Zinc fumes during welding/brazing are toxic — requires adequate extraction. Tarnishes without coating.

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