What You Need to Know about Copper Alloys before Using a Brass Angle or Bar for Your Project

When copper was discovered some 10,000 years ago, its potentials were initially belittled, so much so that man decided to mix it with other metals, such as tin and zinc, in the hopes of creating much stronger metals. True enough, they were able to produce two of the most prominent metals of all time—bronze and brass. In fact, one of them—bronze—became so widely used that an entire era was named after it. But why are they so popular? Well, it has to do with their many beneficial properties.

Bronze: Not Always the Third Best

To produce bronze, you only have to mix copper and tin. Some other metals, such as aluminum, manganese, and nickel and non-metals, such as arsenic and phosphorus, are also sometimes added but only in miniscule amounts. The kind and quality of bronze produced greatly depends on the amount of each metal used in the alloy. Typical bronze has about 12 percent tin, 1 to 3 percent of other metals and metalloids, and the rest copper. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2G6HTSL

Brass Tube: The Importance of Brass in the World of Instrument Making

Mankind has always loved music. Even our oldest ancestors created crude flutes, drums, and other instruments, as uncovered by archaeologists everywhere around the globe. Of course, that love and passion for music remains in everyone’s hearts to this day—it’s just that the materials we use are a little more advanced. A good example of this is how many instrument manufacturers use brass to create trumpets and the like.

It shouldn’t be a wonder why trumpets, tubas, and the like are called “brass instruments”. After all, a brass tube is a vital component of the instrument. Although some brass instruments are made of other types of metal, brass still remains the most popular choice. Why? Here are some of the why instrument makers love working with brass:

The Significant Role of Muntz Metal in Today’s Maritime Success

Looking back through history, it is clear that boats before the 18th Century were made using oak. This was a good option back then because wood is very buoyant and allows for distant sea travel. The problem many sailors encounter with such a delicate material is shipworm, especially in the tropical seas. These wood-boring mollusks could easily destroy oak and cause a lot of damage on a ship’s structure that sailing in open water becames very dangerous.

Thankfully, the issue will no longer plague sailors and explorers after the Muntz Metal was invented.

The History of Muntz Metal

The name of this specific metal is credited to its inventor, one English businessman named George Fredrick Muntz. He was responsible for commercializing this specific alloy back in 1832. Another common name for the metal is “yellow metal” due to its distinct yellowish tint. Mr. Muntz patented the combination of 60% copper, plus 40% zinc, and traces of iron to create this revolutionary alloy that is still widely popular today. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2GdpBCT

Brass Handling 101: The Basics of Cutting Brass Tubing

Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. Brass tubing is a little more expensive than other tubing materials, such as iron and steel, because it offers unique benefits. One of them is the metal’s high corrosion resistance, which makes it perfect for making plumbing fixtures. However, much like any other type of tubing, brass tubing comes in long pieces, usually too long to install without cutting.

Thankfully, though, cutting brass tubes isn’t that difficult to learn. Here are simple steps you can take to be able to cut brass tubes into precise lengths for your projects.

How to Clean a Bronze Metal Sheet without Using Chemicals

It’s common to see bronze metal sheet incorporated into home décor. After all, bronze pieces have a luster that stands out. Sadly, over time bronze’s luster fades as a result of exposure to moisture and air. A greenish and dull-looking layer develops on the metal’s surface.

To remove the tarnish and restore the sheen of bronze, you typically need to use a commercial chemical cleaner or polisher. Although this is the easiest option, commercial cleaners may not always be available. If you can find one, there are alternative solutions you can try, and you can actually make them in your own pantry. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2GcQRBn

Effective Tips on Cleaning and Preserving Bronze Sheets

Metal sheets made of copper, bronze, and brass have a lot of uses at home. They make wonderful decorative pieces and also have some functional uses. Plus, they are wonderful to look at, especially with their beautiful luster. Bronze sheets are very popular because of its color, but the problem is the weathering that causes even the most beautiful of sheets to become green or blue. Although some people might find the rustic change of color a part of the natural aging process, most would prefer the shine and gleam of a well-polished bronze metal sheet.

All about the Patina

How can you delay tarnish and oxidation? Easy; the answer is patina. This is a film that is usually found on metals, which can either form through natural weathering or as an added chemical layer. The patina gives the bronze and other metal sheets a nice and predictable appearance. However, relying on natural patina may result in an even coating. This is why artificial chemical treatment is preferred. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2pv0di7

Everything You Need to Know about Aluminum Bronze Bars and Sheets

Aluminum is among the most widely used metals on the planet, not only because it is abundant (constituting about eight percent of the Earth’s land mass), but more importantly because it has many useful properties. While aluminum is typically utilized in its pure form, it can also be safely alloyed with other metals to form stronger and more valuable materials.

One of the popular metals that aluminum is usually alloyed with is bronze. For decades, aluminum bronze has been an indispensable alloy utilized for a range of construction and industrial uses. Adding aluminum to the original tin-copper mixture elevates the potential of regular bronze bars and sheets, making them stronger and more durable.

The Bronze Tube, the Most Versatile of All Architectural Bronzes

Bronze Age took place over 5,000 years ago, but the metal bronze is still widely used for so many applications today. Bronze is still a material of choice for making statues and decorative features, but there is also a growing market for architectural bronzes, especially the bronze tube. It started back in the Middle Ages when bronze was commonly used for door and window frames. It may have gone out of fashion for a while, but architectural bronze has recently made a comeback.

Composition of Architectural Bronzes

In general, bronze tubes contain a mix of different metals with varying compositions. The secret to pieces used for architecture is the right composition of approximately 57% copper, 40% zinc, and around 3% of lead. This is the only type of bronze in the market that contains a high level of lead, which is why some people call architectural bronzes as “leaded brass”.

Compared to the other types of bronzes–statuary (97% copper) and commercial (90% copper) bronzes–architectural bronze has the least amount of copper. This also means that this type is more resistant to corrosion, has a polished “pink tin” that lasts longer, and is structurally stronger than the other types of bronze on the market. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2IBP7QB

Brazing Copper to Copper: Joining Square Metal Tubing Made a Whole Lot Easier

Traditionally, joining one square metal tubing to another is achieved through two means: brazing and soldering. Brazing is the process of joining materials at an elevated temperature of between 1000 to 2300℉. It is a joining technique that, according to the American Welding Society, has been used since ancient times but has continued to play an important role in today’s society. Brazing copper results in higher joint strength for applications such as jewelry, kitchen cutlery, bathroom faucets and high temperature ceramics. The technique also delivers superior fatigue resistance for carrying loads such as pressure, thermal expansion or dead weight in automotive engines, jet aircraft engines and air conditioning systems.

When done right, brazing permanently joins base materials together whether they are dissimilar metals or of different thicknesses and surface areas. To make the process easier, here are some tricks you can apply to your project.

Types and Uses of Copper Alloys You Can Find from Your Local Copper Sheet Supplier

Copper is a metal that has been used for a vast range of applications since the prehistoric era. It is well known for its unique, reddish tin as well as its high electrical conductivity. Today, copper’s most common use is as a part of electrical wires in industrial and domestic settings. When alloyed with other types of metal, copper becomes even more versatile and dynamic.

Ask your trusted copper sheet supplier for a list of copper alloys and you’ll be surprised of just how many there are. In the US alone, there are over 40 different copper alloys readily available upon request. To give you a better idea, the following are the most common copper alloys and their various uses:

1. Brass

Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. It is prized for its many aesthetic and practical uses, particularly in commercial and residential buildings. The zinc content adds to the alloy’s machinability.  Sometimes, tin or lead is added to increase the metal’s strength. The amount of the metals can vary depending the type of brass being manufactured. Usually there are three main brass types: copper-zinc alloy, copper-zinc-lead alloy, and copper-zinc-tin alloy. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2prLPaw

Where to Buy Copper Sheets for Making Kitchen Design Improvements

Copper is such a hit in kitchen design. Not only is it easy to work with, but it is also easily accessible and highly cost-efficient. For designers, having copper sheets in the roster of materials is a sure way to satisfy clients, especially if they want their kitchen space looking sophisticated and elegant, without necessarily costing much.

The first thing you should do as an interior designer, therefore, is to know where to buy copper sheets that are of high quality, so that you can stock up on a sufficient amount of supply for uninterrupted work and creative freedom. Here are some creative ways to use copper sheets in a kitchen redesign.

Ceiling Tiles – Done right, this can give an additional layer of elegance in a kitchen. Metal ceiling tiles are definitely classic in terms of application, but their gloss makes them look ultra modern. Because metal sheets can also be etched or engraved, they give you the freedom to add patterns or other custom designs that will surely have your client looking forward to it—and up. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2po6xs2

Brass Suppliers: Properties that Make Brass a Practical Alternative Metal

The price of raw brass materials may not be the cheapest compared to other alternative metals, but it remains the practical option. Aside from its distinct range of colors, excellent malleability, ductility, electrical conductivity, and acoustic properties, other characteristics unique to brass add to its overall value. This is why many industries rely on their trusted brass suppliers to provide quality materials for a wide variety of applications.

Know the Different Types of Metal Sheets from Sheet Metal Suppliers

Sheet metals play an important role in the industrial scene. Not only is it versatile and flexible, it can also be functional and artistic. Essentially, these are metals turned into flat and thin pieces through pressing or rolling.

Working with big chunks of metal is time-consuming. Once they are melted and mixed, however, they become easier to work with. They can be bent, folded, sliced, and cut like paper. It’s not just the variety of things you can do with it that you can enjoy, but also the durability and other useful properties of the materials that these sheets are made from.

To make the most out of these metal sheets and find the right type for your project, first you have to know the different types of metal sheet available and their applications.

Copper Plate – This type of metal sheet is most popular for its ability to conduct electricity. Copper plate sheets usually have surfaces treated with chrome or nickel painting. It can also come with or without any finish; your choice will affect the cost. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2DGoK8e

Brass for Sale: Why You Should Consider Brass for Your Molding Needs

From sculptors to board game miniature enthusiasts, metalworking is becoming quite the hobby throughout the United States. It can be breathtaking to see the precise shapes and angles of each work that these artisans produce--but have you ever wondered how the outcome of their work could be so precise? After all, metal can be quite difficult to cut and shape. The secret here is that many of these people use the help of molds to create many of the common shapes that they require.

In most cases, molds are made of steel thanks to the affordability of the material. Unfortunately, steel is not as durable as many other types of metal when it comes to casting. This can prove to be a bit of a problem if the artisan would like to reproduce their work numerous times over the years. In such cases, it may be more cost-effective to source brass for sale to create a mold.

Brass offers a wide range of advantages over steel despite the price difference of the two materials. Some of these advantages include:

How to Keep Your Metal Supplies from Brass Sales in Top Quality

Any artisan and craft makers can attest to how important it is to have ready supply on hand. There’s no telling when an inspiration will hit and the need to create must be satisfied. This is going to be a problem if you don’t have the materials required for bringing your creative vision to fruition.

As many artists will also tell you, brass sales are a great way to buy materials wholesale. Whether you’re making a brass sculpture, jewellery, or some other design element for your clients to enjoy, you can get to work anytime, and without delay because of unfulfilled logistics. with this material. Should you buy wholesale, however, it’s important that you also know how to maintain the quality of the material, especially if it’s going to be stashed away for a long period before use.

Keep on Gleamin’

True, some people would prefer to have some natural patina on their brass material for added effect and texture. If you’re making items like jewellery, however, it would be much more aesthetically effective if it keeps its shine. The good news is that it shouldn’t take too much time and effort to clean especially if it’s not all that dirty yet. In fact, a simple wash with a soft cleaning brush and water should be enough to do the trick. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2FTzxxU

Classy Kitchen Design Upgrades Made Possible with Copper & Brass Sales

There are many different ways to upgrade the look of your kitchen, but at the core of it are the kinds of material you will use. If you want to go for something classy yet simple, consider using copper and brass. There are plenty of good reasons why many designers trust these materials. Here are some that you might want to share with your clients.

Durability

One of the top reasons why copper and brass are perfect for kitchens is that they are durable. Whether you incorporate these materials as backsplash or cabinet hardware, you can expect them to last for a long time. There will be a lot of slamming of countertop drawers and cabinets in the kitchen, as well as pulling and pushing of materials on surfaces. You need a material that can withstand all these activities. That’s why brass and copper are perfect for the job—they are malleable but durable, affordable but efficient.

Cost-Efficient

Another reason to invest in brass and copper materials for your kitchen is that they are cost-efficient. Despite having high quality and guaranteed durability, you can be sure that their price doesn’t come too steep. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2FSF0ot

Copper and Brass Sales: Flame Painting Pointers to Produce Beautiful Heat Patina Effects

Flame painting may be among the simplest heat patination techniques for copper, but the results are rather rewarding. No other metal yields such a wide array of colors ranging from vibrant blues to pastel pinks. Passing the material through heat for just a few seconds causes a chemical reaction that alters the color. Through controlled application, Skip Matthews, dubbed the “father of flame painting,” has discovered that it’s even possible to create beautiful patterns and shapes with the colors produced throughout years of mastering the craft.

Heat patina is perfect for making jewelry, charms, filigrees and other neat accessories. Thanks to strong copper and brass sales growth, your raw materials are both accessible and affordable to better hone your skills. Here are some useful tips to help you.

Copper Alloys—Including Brass Square Tube, Sheet, and Angle—And Their Antimicrobial Properties

Before Antony van Leeuwenhoek discovered the existence of bacteria in humans in 1863, diseases were thought to be caused by bad air from stinky trash and rotten meat. People long ago believed that as long as they don’t inhale this bad air, they won’t get sick. When it was proven that bacteria is indeed the primary culprit of most illnesses, no one felt safe anymore. Everyone started to become too anxious, especially when making contact with commonly touched surfaces at home or in public places, such as door knobs and handrails.

Until it was confirmed that some types of bacteria are actually good for the health (some even living inside the body to fight off bad bacteria) and when antibiotic drugs were introduced, the unease continued. Surprisingly, even with these advancements many still find themselves at the mercy of illness caused by harmful microorganisms. Thankfully, there are more than a couple of ways to deal with germs. One of these is using certain types of metal.

Metals that Kill Bacteria

Some non-ferrous metals, or those that do not contain or are not bonded with iron, have antimicrobial properties. They are able to not just repel bacteria but actually kill them. These metals include silver, copper, aluminum, zinc, brass, bronze, tin, and silicon. An experiment conducted by researchers from the University of Swaziland’s Physics department on the effectiveness of these metals in combating coliform bacteria revealed that the metals are indeed capable of killing bacteria. It was also revealed that copper, silver, and zinc have the highest rate of destruction caused to the coliforms.

The antimicrobial properties of these metals are mainly due to the oligodynamic effect, a phenomenon that triggers the death or deactivation of bacteria as a result of exposure to metal ions. While the exact mechanism of this effect is still unknown, there have been many studies that confirm the denaturing effect of metal ions on the protein content of bacteria, which then leads to their demise. Some studies suggest that the metal ions merge with DNA and cellular enzymes and shut them down as well.

Practical Applications

The discovery of this unique property has made copper alloys and zinc a staple in water storage and distribution systems where sanitation is a huge deal. Although silver performs just as effectively as copper, it is much more expensive, which is why it is rarely used for making water pipes and tanks. Copper is more affordable and abundant in supply, too. Its major alloys—brass and bronze—are widely used for making tubes and containers needed in hospitals and agricultural facilities. Brass square tube and fitting products have become more common, eventually reducing the rate of waterborne diseases, such as diarrhea and typhoid.

In residential and commercial facilities, brass and other copper alloys have become a popular addition, too. They are used to cover commonly touched and easily grimed areas, including countertops and railings. They are prized not only for their antimicrobial properties but also for their naturally elegant gloss and color.

If you are planning to equip your space with oligodynamic metals to reduce the risk of sickness in the family, it would definitely help to consult with trusted metal suppliers like Rotax Metals. This way you can be sure of the quality of materials you will be getting. If you need brass tubes for your piping systems, they can easily find the most suitable grade of brass for you.

About Rotax Metals: Rotax Metals is a premier supplier of copper, brass, and bronze products in North America. Apart from that, we also offer special services, such as metal polishing, metal shearing, waterjet cutting, and metal fabrication. If you need custom extrusions, we can help you as well. Whether you are a sculptor looking for the right bronze block for your project or a plumber in need of new oligodynamic metal supplies, we’ve got you covered.

Sources:

Discovery of bacteria in humans: Sept. 17, 1683, healthcentral.com

Antibacterial properties of some metals and alloys in combating coliforms in contaminated water, academicjournals.org

Thinking of Using a Brass Tube? Better Differentiate Between Bronze, Copper, and Brass First

Anyone looking to add new bathroom fixtures will most likely come across different tube options. The bathroom, after all, is full of elements made from tubes, from the roll holders to the shower rods and rails. Most of these tubes are made from bronze, copper, or brass. While each possesses unique beneficial properties, it’s best to choose the one that has the most merits. Knowing the differences between these metals can help you make the right choice.

Bronze

It is easy to mistake bronze for brass because the two metals have almost similar reddish tint. Even so, be careful not to mistakenly use one instead of the other for certain applications. Bronze is an alloy of copper and tin. Sometimes, other metals like manganese and phosphorous are added to improve its quality. The result is a reddish brown metal that has a higher melting point than brass. While bronze is hard, it is also brittle so it doesn’t do well in applications that involve tension. This metal is rather useful in making sculptures and other decorative items, such as mirrors and chandeliers. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2oxyAVh

Naval Brass and Two Other Brass Alloys with Excellent Corrosion Resistance

Brass is prized for many of its characteristics, including its distinct appearance, machinability, durability, and conductivity. But perhaps the property that craftsmen and artisans consider to be the most important is its excellent corrosion resistance. Through the ages, new brass alloys have been introduced with improved ability to withstand corrosion. This is why brass remains as a preferred material for aggressive working environments and even in marine applications.

Today, there are over 60 types of brass specified by European Norm standards, each with a different composition to suit the specific needs of the user. If you want a material that satisfies the most demanding conditions across many industries, however, here are three of the finest alloys you can get from suppliers like Rotax Metals.

Naval Brass

Also referred to as admiralty brass, naval brass is composed of 30 percent zinc and 1 percent tin. Small as it may be, that tiny percentage of tin is what gives naval brass its most notable property—resistance to dezincification. This is especially true if the copper content is near the top end of the range. Being an alpha-beta brass, naval brass is often cheaper, easier to find in markets, and more workable at high temperatures. Naval brass plates hold up well against seawater and other caustic substances, making it a staple in ship manufacturing.

Muntz Metal

Muntz metal is also a popular material in the shipbuilding industry, although it’s not quite as widely used as naval brass. Its composition of 60 percent copper, 40 percent zinc and a trace amount of iron makes it a little more susceptible to dezincification, particularly in marine environments. This is why Muntz metal is more commonly used only as lining on boats. When treated and protected with iron or zinc anodes, though, it can tolerate a significant amount of dezincification before needing replacement.

Aluminum Brass

Nowadays, aluminum brass is just as important as naval brass when it comes to marine applications. Containing about 76 percent copper, 22 percent zinc, and 2 percent aluminum, this alloy has superior corrosion resistance, too. Aluminum brass sheets, strips and plates are widely used in seawater service and sometimes for production of seawater pipe systems. It is also a prominent material used in Euro coins due to its resistance to tarnishing, as well as its non-allergenic and mild antimicrobial properties.

All brass types are naturally corrosion resistant under normal conditions, but some are designed to be more resilient when exposed to the elements. Consult with your supplier to know which brass alloy works best for your project.

About Rotax Metals

Rotax Metals is a trusted supplier of quality copper, brass and bronze products for a number of industries. Founded by Ronald Rosenthal in 1948, our company offers an extensive inventory of competitively priced items along with value added services, such as welding, cutting, forming, and machining. We also provide special services, including polishing, metal shearing, waterjet cutting, metal fabrication through our vast network of resources. Get in touch with us and let our experienced and knowledgeable staff help with your project today.

Sources:

The Brasses: Properties & Applications, CopperAlliance.eu

Brass Alloys and Their Applications, TheBalance.com

Interesting Facts about Square Brass Tubing and Other Types You Probably Didn’t Know About

Brass tubing is becoming a popular choice of fixture material for homes and hotels these days, and for many good reasons. Besides being versatile, it’s also quite striking, well-matched with any type of interior design. Before you decide to start decorating your home with fixtures made of square brass tubing or tubes of other shapes, it helps to know more about the alloy first. There are some facts about this brass item that you might find interesting.

Fact 1: Brass Tubes Are Not the Same as Brass Pipes

If you’re the type that easily mistakes pipes for tubes, it’s time you learn about their differences. While they have a lot of things in common, they are actually not the same. And it’s crucial that you know their differences because you may need either of them in your future projects.

Size Designation: Pipes are designated by a “Nominal Pipe Size” based upon the inside diameter (ID) of the most common wall thickness, while tubes are designated by the measured outside diameter (OD). Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2ouCKNS

Engraving Brass like a Pro—Using Quality Tools and Brass Plates

Engraving is an art form that has been practiced for centuries. A historically important incising technique, it aided the revolution of printing, coining, and cartography. Today, engraving is used for labeling and making decorative elements. It can be performed on virtually all kinds of hard material, including metal, stone, and wood, among which metal is the most commonly used because it is workable and doesn’t easily break or chip. Plus, metal has a luster that exudes a classic and elegant feel not found in other materials.

One of the most popular metals used for engraving is brass. Besides having a gold-like appearance, this metal also boasts of softness and ductility suitable for cutting grooves. However, not all types of brass are excellent for engraving. Some are harder and less yielding than others. Those that contain just the right amount of zinc, particularly from the alpha-beta class, are the best option.

Tools Used for Engraving Brass

Advances in technology have greatly transformed the practice of engraving brass. The emergence of pneumatic tools and laser cutters has significantly sped up the process and increased its accuracy. These new tools though are only commonly used for mass productions and for engraving extremely elaborate and symmetrical patterns. Many craftsmen still rely on handheld tools for creating original designs. If you are looking to engrave on brass by hand, here are some of the basic tools you should consider using.

●        Graver or Burin. This is the general term for the different types of hardened steel tools used for cutting designs into a metal surface. It comes in a variety of shapes and sizes that produce different lines, which is particularly essential for making intricate patterns. A graver may have a conical or sharp tip depending on what type of line and how deep they want to cut. The graver’s tip must have the right geometry to ensure that the lines are uniform on all sections of the design.

●        Rotating Vice. For more precise lines and patterns, use a rotating vice to guide the graver as it cuts furrows on the brass plate. This device is used to hold the metal plate and rotate it continuously at a controlled speed. As the metal plate rotates, you can feed the graver onto the device until it makes contact with the metal and starts creating your desired lines. Just be careful not to push the graver too hard to avoid puncturing the plate or worse breaking your device.

●        Dremel. Professional engravers that accept commission work often use power tools to expedite the process and produce more output. One of the power tools they use is a dremel. It’s a kind of automated graver that has a replaceable tip. It usually comes with a set of special engraving bits, which are available in different shapes and sizes.

To make the most out of these engraving tools, it helps to invest in high-quality engraving brass. Not only will a nice metal plate be easy to cut but the finished product will look distinctly beautiful as well. Get your metal from a leading supplier such as Rotax Metals. Consult with their metal experts so that you can find the right type of brass for your project.

About Rotax Metals: If you are looking for the right brass for your engraving project, turn to Rotax Metals. We have guaranteed high-quality brass plates that will surely exceed your expectations. Our company has been a leader in metal supply for over seven decades. We specialize in copper, brass, and bronze plates, sheets, tubes, and bars, catering to manufacturers, metal suppliers, craftsmen, and architects across North America.

Sources:

How to Engrave Metal at Home

Engraving Tools, Cutters, Tool Bits and Diamond Tip Engraving Tools

Steps to Take When Cleaning and Polishing Brass Sheet Metal to Avoid Damaging It

Brass is produced by combining copper and zinc, two widely used metals that boast of a great deal of useful properties. It is no wonder that this reddish metal is malleable, strong, and resistant to corrosion and heat. This makes brass a popular material for making plumbing fittings as well as decorative items.

Despite having high corrosion resistance, brass is not immune to tarnishing. After constant use and exposure to oxygen, it will eventually lose its luster. Brass sheet metal is one of those items that require polishing and care to keep its elegant gleam. However, it is also one of the more sensitive brass items, so extra caution must be practiced when cleaning or polishing it. For those who are scared to clean their brass sheets, simply follow this guide:

Step 1: Do the Brass Test

Before you embark on your cleaning mission, make sure to test whether you have real brass or if it is a metal sheet. If a magnet sticks to the plate, it is metal; if it does not, it is brass. If you are dealing with a metal sheet that only has a coating of brass, you must proceed with the next steps with even more caution, as too much cleaning and polishing can scratch and damage the cladding. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2EYBad3

Switching to Brass Tubing Will Bring You More Merits

Everyone needs access to clean, running water and a bathroom. So it’s no question that all buildings require plumbing. Most home and business owners tend to choose PVC over brass tubing and fittings because it is significantly cheaper. What they fail to take into consideration is the longevity of the material they are choosing. What seems like an affordable choice at first will become more expensive in the long run because of the frequent repairs and replacement that are expected after initial installation.

Before you go for the cheapest alternative, it helps to first check more reliable options. Here’s what you need to know about choosing brass plumbing pipes and fittings for your domestic or commercial plumbing needs:

Brass Pipes and Fittings Are the Top Choice for Builders

Ask the builder you are working with about their recommendations and the first thing they will say is “go for brass”. It’s not to get you to spend more, but it’s because they know you’ll get more merits from brass than from its cheaper counterparts. Aside from being easy to work with, brass is also very durable. When you are installing new pipes, you need your fittings, such as backflow preventers, valves, and pressure control devices to be tough enough to take on high water fluid pressure, and brass is your most trusted option. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2FcCxIs

Classifying Brasses by Their Crystal Structure—Muntz Metal and Other Brass Types

Copper is valued for its numerous useful properties. Apart from being extensively used for electrical and electronic applications, it also boasts of health benefits. Amazing as it is in pure form, this metal becomes even more useful when combined with other equally prized metals. For instance, when alloyed with zinc, it produces brass, which also has its fair share of great merits, including its high tensile strength and machinability.

Brass can be formed in an array of types by manipulating its zinc content. Each type has unique properties required for specific applications. Currently, there are at least 60 different types of brass. These are further classified into smaller groups based on their crystal structure. 

Alpha Brasses

All brasses that contain less than 37 percent zinc are classified as alpha. This small amount of zinc is evenly distributed within the alloy to form a homogenous alpha grain structure, thus the name. Because there are fewer atoms of zinc held between the molecules of copper in this structure, there’s not enough strength to resist even light pressure. Consequently, the resulting brass is softer and more ductile than other types, making it very easy to work with.

Alpha-Beta Brasses

Adding more zinc to the mixture allows for the creation of a beta grain structure. This is why brasses with 37 to 45 percent zinc content are classified as alpha-beta brasses. Having a beta grain structure, the resulting brass becomes tougher and less ductile, which makes it difficult to work with at room temperature. This is why alpha-beta brasses are usually hot worked by extrusion, stamping, or die-casting. One example of this type of brass is Muntz metal, which has about 60% copper, 40% zinc, and a trace amount of iron.

Beta Brasses

With more than 45 percent zinc, beta brasses are the hardest of all types of brass so much so that they can only be hot-worked or cast. Their hardness makes them suitable for making faucet handles, sprinkler heads, window and door fittings, and other fixtures that are constantly subjected to pressures. Other elements, such as aluminum and iron, are added into the alloy to achieve even better properties that are necessary for complex and aggressive applications.

Apart from differentiating crystal structures, there are other ways brasses can be classified to identify the type that can work best for certain applications. Specifically, they can be classified by their mechanical properties and color, although each property used as basis is related to the rest of the properties.

Using brass with the right characteristics can improve the quality of your project’s output, and possibly reduce the cost. This is why it is important to consult with an expert in metals before shopping around for brass supplies. Top suppliers like Rotax Metals have experts ready to guide you through the choosing and buying process. Also, because they have a huge selection of brass products with different grades and zinc content, you can easily find the most suitable type for your project.

About Rotax Metals. When it comes to copper and brass, you should settle only for the best, and that’s what we at Rotax Metals offer. Established in 1947, we’ve been providing the highest quality copper supplies to professionals and businesses across North America. We even customize metal parts for manufacturers that need specific designs for their machinery. Whether you are a designer or a metal supplier, you need us to provide you with topnotch metal solutions for your projects.

Sources:

Brass Alloys and Their Chemical Composition, thoughtco.com

Brass, britannica.com

Understanding the Malleability and Ductility of Metals before Opting for Brass Channel Products

When it comes to metals, hardness doesn’t necessarily mean quality. There are other equally crucial properties that have to be considered to determine a metal’s value as a material. In most cases, a balance between flexibility, durability, and what’s needed in a particular application must be achieved to determine if a certain metal is ideal or not.

Two of the most important properties of metal are malleability and ductility. Malleability is the ability of metals to be hammered, pressed, or rolled into thin sheets without breaking, while ductility is the ability of metals to be pulled out into wires. They may seem the same properties, considering that they allow for almost similar kinds of deformation, but they are actually different, although it is also safe to say that most malleable metals are also ductile.

Malleability and Ductility: Not the Same?

One way to differentiate malleability from ductility is by looking at the molecular structure of metals through a microscope. The molecules of a metal consist of packed atoms. Compared to the molecules that make up organic matters, those of metals are highly dense. When applied with stress, these atoms roll over each other depending on the vector forces the stress created. The atoms of malleable metals would normally roll faster. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2CKLaoB

Bronze Tube, Bar, and Sheet Products Can Appear More Elegant with Patina

Metals react differently to oxygen exposure. Ferrous (iron-containing) metals, for instance, form iron oxide or rust when exposed to air or moisture. Non-ferrous metals such as copper and tin, on the other hand, develop a layer of stain called patina.

This change in properties and compositions actually reduces the metal’s overall quality. In the case of ferrous metals, it could even be worse, because rust can reduce them to dust over time, rendering them unsuitable for use as structural reinforcement. The patina on non-ferrous metals, however, has a different effect. Instead of damaging the inside of the metal, it actually shields it against corrosion.

One metal that is particularly susceptible to patination is bronze. An alloy of copper and tin (both form patina when they oxidize), bronze develops a layer of copper oxide on its surface fast, which later transforms into a much harder material, called copper carbonate. Although it seems like a disadvantage, in certain applications of bronze, this property can actually be a merit. Take sculpture for example.

Bronze Used in Sculpture

For thousands of years, bronze has been tortuously sculpted into statues, ornaments, and accessories. The bronze sculptures made millennia ago can still be seen intact in museums all over the world, thanks to their thick layers of patina. It would take more than a couple more millennia for their patina to completely whittle away at the interior of these bronze artifacts.

Sculpting with bronze is still popularly practiced today, and this is mainly due to bronze’s amazing properties. It is hard but slightly brittle, which makes removing portions of the metal without cracking or chipping it quite possible and easy. The patina, which gives the final output an antique appearance, becomes part of the package.

Artificial Patina

Bronze’s unique patina has become so coveted that some have invented techniques for speeding up its development. Generally called “intentional patination”, these techniques involve the use of a variety of chemicals to achieve a precise surface color. Sculptors usually apply these chemicals in a number of layers to produce varied effects, and depending on the chemical used, the resulting patina can be transparent or opaque.

Originally performed to confer the appearance of antiquity on sculptures, intentional patination helps prevent bronze from developing a different kind of patina, which usually does not contribute beauty to the sculpture’s appearance. Controlling the process allows for the creation of the most beautiful bronze furniture and ornaments.

Of course, the success of intentional patination still depends on the purity of bronze used. If you are looking to make your own bronze sculpture or ornament and you want to achieve a certain antique appearance through patination, make sure to get your supplies from a company that has been providing high-quality bronze materials for decades. Suppliers like Rotax metals can provide you with the highest quality bronze tube, bar, or sheet for your project.

About Rotax Metals: Rotax Metals is North America’s leading provider of copper, brass, and bronze supplies. We cater to builders, artisans, manufacturers, and metal suppliers across the U.S. and Canada. Established in 1948, we’ve been the supplier of choice for small and large businesses, simply because we are fully capable of exceeding expectations. We leverage our vast knowledge in metalwork and fully equipped manufacturing facilities to provide only the best materials that could suit any type of project.

Sources:

The Artificial Patination of Bronze Sculpture

What Is Patina? Definition and Uses

Patina Formulas for Brass, Bronze and Copper

Understanding the Process behind the Creation of Copper and Brass Extrusions

Most metals used for industrial purposes are dense and hard. They are mined as ore, melted and refined to remove impurities, and solidified to achieve the hardness required by their intended applications. Sometimes, they are alloyed with other metals to create even stronger and more durable materials. How they are manufactured into bars, sheets, and modified shapes, however, is a completely different process, called metal forming.

Different Metal Forming Methods

Metal forming is the process of shaping metal through mechanical deformation. It doesn’t involve the use of chemicals, only high loads and stresses. There are two main categories: one is compressive forming in which the primary means of deformation is uniaxial or multiaxial compressive loading, and the other is tensile forming, which relies on pulling forces. Some specialized metalworking processes require a combination of both, while others require different versions of the force applied on them, including bending and shearing.

Of the two categories, compressive forming is the more commonly used one, as it can be performed in many ways, including rolling, extrusion, die forming, forging, and indenting. All of these techniques involve pressing metal with a heavy load to turn it into specific shapes. Among these compressive forming techniques, the most unique and particularly efficient is extrusion. Manufacturers in need of high production volumes in the shortest time possible should opt for this option. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2EUIXg7

Utensils Made from Bronze Sheet Metal Make a Great Addition to Your Kitchen Paraphernalia

Unsurprisingly, the kitchen can be the dirtiest place in your home. That is if you fail to clean it thoroughly after every use. Leftovers and excess water on your table and countertop are the favorite hangout of bacteria. They also attract rats and roaches that might carry diseases into your home.

Sometimes, bacteria can thrive on the surfaces of poorly cleaned utensils. This is particularly alarming considering that these are items your family use on a regular basis. Fortunately, utensils that are made of copper alloys such as bronze have certain antimicrobial properties, which can help kill bacteria naturally.

Why Use Bronze Utensils

Bronze is one of the few metals that are capable of producing the oligodynamic effect, a force that can kill bacteria. An alloy of copper and tin (both oligodynamic metals), it is widely used for a huge array of applications, including the manufacture of musical instruments and springs, bearings, and bushings in electric motors. Today, it is regaining popularity as a material for kitchen utensils, including cookware. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2BS7xvB

Where to Buy Copper Sheets and Tubes: Learn about High Conductivity and Deoxidized Copper First

Copper is the metal of choice for most craftsmen and builders because of its useful qualities. Apart from being highly resistant to corrosion and microbes, it is also easy to work with. It’s no wonder this metal and all its alloys are utilized for a vast range of applications, including electronics, electrical engineering, plumbing, and construction. If you’re looking for a metal that is both durable and striking to include in your project, copper is your best bet.

Before you go looking for a copper supplier in your area, it would definitely help to find out more about copper first. After all, there are many different alloys and grades of copper to choose from so having more knowledge about the metal is key to picking the type that best suits your project. Essentially, copper compounds and alloys are categorized into these two types.

High Conductivity Copper

More than 30 percent of all copper supplies are utilized for electrical applications. The wires and cables within the walls and ceilings of your home and the distribution line connected to the utility posts outside are all made of copper. Thanks to the metal’s excellent ductility and malleability, it can be molded into small leads and thin sheets that are needed for these applications. More importantly, copper is also known for its high conductivity, exceeded only by silver, which makes it a great electrical wire material.

Even if it only comes next to silver in terms of electrical conductivity, copper is still preferred for manufacturing electrical wires because it is much less expensive. Take note though that copper comes in various grades, each having a unique degree of purity. The purer the copper, the higher its conductivity. Most copper materials that have undergone the initial purification process contain at least 93 percent copper.

Deoxidized Copper

Like most other metals, copper usually contains a trace amount of oxygen. If not removed, this oxygen can make copper brittle when brazed or welded with other metals, specifically through contact with hydrogen used in the process. To remove the oxygen molecules, phosphorous or boron is added to the mixture to increase the material’s density and purge all impurities. The resulting material is dense and tough enough to be ideal for making plumbing systems and domestic gas supply parts.

Most copper panels and tubes used for making roofing materials and central heating systems are deoxidized as well. This method also improves copper’s ability to be alloyed with other metals, such as zinc and tin. The quality of the resulting alloys, however, still depends on the amount of other metals included in the mixture.

If you want to know where to buy copper sheets and tubes for your project, consider looking for a company that has been in operation for many decades, such as Rotax Metals. Not only does such supplier have a huge selection of products, but it surely also has experts who can give you the best advice on getting your money’s worth. Working with the highest quality materials will ensure the success of your project, be it home-building, sculpture, or piping.

About Rotax Metals: As the leading supplier of copper, brass, and bronze tubes, sheets, and bars in North America, we take pride in our huge inventory and excellent customer service. Whether you are a fabricator looking for a high-quality metal that you can make into customized machine parts or an architect wanting to add metallic flare to your designs, we’ve got you covered. We have highly skilled professionals who can assist you in choosing the right metals for your needs.

Sources:

10 Copper Facts

Introduction to Copper: Types of Copper