Brass

Brass is an alloy consisting of 50% or more of copper, to which zinc and smaller amounts of other elements usually tin, lean, or aluminum have been added. Bronze is a copper base alloy where tin, rather than zinc, is used). The color, strength, machine-ability, and corrosion resistance of brass are determined by the percentage of zinc and other metals present.




The percentage of zinc mixed with copper will affect its ductility and hardness. The alloy known as cartridge brass, containing 30% zinc, provides the greatest measure of ductility and strength and is used for cold forming operations, where brass is shaped by rolling, drawing, deep drawing, and other machining processes. Cold forming produce high strength brass object, such as bolts and screws. The alloy known as Muntz metal contain 40% zinc and is used for hot working.

See other alloy: Bronze