Metal Manufacturing: Should You Choose Brass for Your Fabrication Project?

27 October 2017
 Categories: , Blog

Share

There are numerous materials to consider if you are planning an industrial or commercial metal fabrication project. One of the most beneficial choices is brass. Brass is a copper-based alloy which is produced by combining copper with zinc. While this metal is more expensive than alternatives such as carbon steel, it has exceptional performance characteristics. These properties make it an ideal choice for commercial and industrial goods. Here are some of the advantages of choosing brass over alternatives:

Excellent Malleability 

When planning to manufacture metal goods, it is crucial to consider the malleability of the material. Malleability refers to the ability of metals to be formed into different shapes or sheets without breakage. Brass is a highly malleable metal, and it is easy to cast during fabrication. The softness of the material and the low boiling point makes this alloy a perfect choice for intricate designs. Also, with the high level of machinability, you can achieve tight tolerances.

Minimal Friction

Brass is an alloy with a low friction rate. This property can be attributed to the softness of the material. This aspect is beneficial if you are concerned about the possibility of fabricated products sparking. For instance, if some metals with a high friction rate come in contact with explosive gases, the result could be disastrous. At the same time, you should note that brass is still highly resilient and its hardness is higher than pure copper. 

Great Corrosion Resistance

One of the primary challenges experienced after metal fabrication is the corrosion of products. In simple terms, the conventional materials used for custom manufacturing are susceptible to accelerated degradation when exposed to some surroundings. Brass does not exhibit these signs of corrosion and deterioration. It can be used in diverse environments including marine and humid areas. Also, there is no adverse reaction related to fuel, kerosene, and alcohol.

Microbial Resistance

Brass is an alloy of copper, a metal which is noted for its exceptional antimicrobial properties. Simply speaking, the copper content in the brass will help in the destruction of the bacteria and pathogens which come in contact with the surface. This property is beneficial if the products you plan to fabricate will be used in an environment where sterility is essential. The efficiency of the brass as an antimicrobial material will depend on the type of microorganisms.

If you are not sure whether brass is the right copper-based alloy for your fabrication project, you should discuss your concerns and requirements with your manufacturer about various copper-base alloys before making your decision.