CNC Machining
Brass
Brass sets the benchmark for CNC machinability. This copper-zinc alloy offers exceptionally low friction, excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, and outstanding corrosion resistance. It is the premier choice for precision electronic terminals, fluid valves, and aesthetic hardware.
Core Mechanical Properties
Understanding the specific alloy grade is crucial for your application's success. Below is the typical mechanical data for the most common CNC machined brass alloys.
| Alloy Grade | Yield Strength | Tensile Strength | Hardness (Rockwell B) |
|---|---|---|---|
| C360 (Free-Machining) | ~ 310 MPa | ~ 400 MPa | ~ 78 HRB |
| C260 (Cartridge Brass) | ~ 110 MPa (Annealed) | ~ 300 MPa | ~ 65 HRB |
| C464 (Naval Brass) | ~ 170 MPa | ~ 380 MPa | 55 - 65 HRB |
International Grade Comparison
Use our cross-reference chart to match American standards (ASTM) with European (DIN/EN) and Chinese (GB) brass material equivalents.
| ASTM (USA) | DIN / EN (Europe) | GB (China) | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| C36000 | CuZn39Pb3 / CW614N | HPb59-1 | The 100% machinability standard. Contains lead to lubricate the tool and break chips perfectly. Ideal for high-speed automatic lathes. |
| C26000 | CuZn30 / CW505L | H70 | Excellent cold workability and formability. Often used for deep drawing, stamping, and electrical components. |
| C46400 | CuZn38Sn1As / CW706R | HSn62-1 | "Naval Brass." Contains tin for extreme resistance to dezincification in saltwater. Perfect for marine hardware. |
Hardcore Industrial Applications
Brass is indispensable in industries where tight sealing, low friction, and spark resistance are critical for performance and safety.
High-Pressure Valves & Fittings
Brass naturally seals tightly against itself and other metals without galling. It is heavily utilized in pneumatic, hydraulic, and gas plumbing manifolds.
Electronic Connectors & Terminals
With superb electrical conductivity and the ability to be micro-machined, brass is the foundation for RF connectors, ground pins, and sensor housings.
Marine Hardware
Naval brass (C464) parts withstand harsh saltwater environments without corroding, making them essential for marine pump components, propeller shafts, and fasteners.
Expert Machining Tips
C360 Brass represents 100% on the machinability index. However, its tendency to "grab" tools requires our CNC programmers to optimize specific cutting geometries:
- 1
Zero or Negative Rake Angles
Brass has a strong tendency to pull or "grab" the cutting tool into the workpiece. To counter this, we use cutting tools with zero or slightly negative rake angles to push the tool away, ensuring dimensional stability.
- 2
Maximized Speeds & Feeds
Brass dissipates heat incredibly well. We maximize our spindle RPMs and feed rates (often running at the limits of our turning centers) to drastically reduce cycle times without compromising tool life.
- 3
Dry Machining or Light Oil
Because free-machining brass produces very short, powdery chips, flood coolant is often unnecessary. We frequently machine brass dry or use a very light cutting oil simply to clear the chips from deep bores.
Top 3 Surface Treatments
Brass possesses a beautiful natural gold color, but we offer specialized post-processing to alter its aesthetics or improve its wear properties.
1. As-Machined / Polished
Often, brass requires no coating. We offer high-gloss mechanical polishing to bring out its natural luster, which is highly desired in decorative applications.
2. Electroless Nickel Plating
If the part requires severe corrosion resistance or electrical grounding without tarnishing, nickel plating deposits a hard, uniform, silver-colored protective layer over the brass.
3. Clear Lacquer / Coating
Raw brass will eventually oxidize and develop a green/brown patina over time. Applying a thin, clear lacquer or powder coat seals the metal, preserving its shiny golden finish indefinitely.
Start Your Manufacturing RFQ
Upload your 3D CAD files today. Our engineering team will review your brass specifications and provide a free DFM report along with rapid pricing.