Brass is a versatile material that is great for jewelry prototypes and final parts.
Material details
Brass is a metal alloy primarily composed of copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn). It is known for its attractive golden appearance, as well as its excellent malleability, corrosion resistance, and acoustic properties. Brass has a wide range of applications, including musical instruments, plumbing fittings, electrical connectors, decorative items, and more. Here are the general technical properties of brass:
| Property | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Density | 8.4 - 8.7 g/cm³ |
| Tensile strength | 200 - 550 MPa |
| Tensile modulus | 97 - 110 GPa |
| Elongation | 5 - 60% |
| Melting Point | 900 - 940°C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 109 - 130 W/(m·K) |
| Corrosion Resistance | Good |
The specific values for properties such as tensile strength, elongation, and thermal conductivity can vary depending on the brass alloy composition and heat treatment. Common brass alloys include:
- Alpha Brass: Contains a higher proportion of copper, providing good corrosion resistance but lower strength compared to other alloys.
- Alpha-Beta Brass: Contains both copper and zinc in varying proportions, balancing strength and corrosion resistance.
- Beta Brass: Contains a higher proportion of zinc, resulting in increased strength but reduced ductility and corrosion resistance.
The choice of brass alloy depends on the specific application requirements, considering factors such as mechanical strength, corrosion resistance, machinability, and aesthetics. Brass is widely used in various industries due to its versatility, ease of fabrication, and desirable combination of properties.