Of all the alloys of copper, brass is arguably the most
appealing. Not only does it have an elegant color and sheen but it also has so
many useful properties. If you’re looking for the perfect metal to use in your
projects, you will surely benefit from using brass. Before you go purchasing a brass square tube, plate, or
sheet, however, it helps to first learn more about brass. This way you can
better understand its properties and discover the safest and most effective ways
to handle products made from it.
History
Copper, the base metal of brass, was discovered some 10,000
years ago. About 5000 years later, tin was discovered. At the same time,
ancient metallurgists began experimenting with them and succeeded when they were
able to produce bronze. What they didn’t realize is that along with some of the
tin ore they are gathering to process and alloy with copper were trace amounts
of zinc. So during the time they were forming bronze, they were also
accidentally producing brass. It’s only about 3000 years after that when they
finally learned how to distinguish zinc from copper ore, that they finally were
able to produce brass intentionally.
Composition
Ancient brasses were made of copper and zinc alone. If there
were other elements present in the composition, it’s very likely that the
metalworkers simply failed to filter them out. Today’s brasses, on the other
hand, come in different types, each of which either has a unique copper-zinc
content ratio or other metals are added to the mix. Muntz metal, for instance,
is a type of brass that has a trace amount of iron in it. Adding different
elements to the original composition helps enhance brass’s properties, which
makes it useful for more applications.
Properties
Both zinc and copper are well-known non-ferrous metals. They
don’t contain iron, which is the main ingredient for rusting. Simply put,
either metal does not rust or easily corrode when exposed to oxygen or the
elements. They are also highly workable, a quality that is distinct to
non-ferrous metals. These properties are either preserved or enhanced when the
two metals are combined to form brass. Therefore, brass is expected to also be
corrosion-resistant, workable, and thermally conductive just like its base metals.
Applications
With its amazing properties, there are many applications for
which brass and its many alloys can be used. Their tensile strength makes them
the perfect material for nuts, bolts, and threaded parts. Because of their
gold-like shade and luster, they also make a great metal for many jewelry
items. Brasses are known for their antimicrobial properties, too, so you’ll see
them utilized as pipes for water systems. These are just some of the most
common uses of brass items.
If you’re looking to use brass supplies in your project
soon, this information can guide you on choosing the best pieces. Top suppliers
like Rotax Metals can offer you a variety of brass alloys so that you can pick
just the right type for your needs.
About Rotax
Metals: There are many metal suppliers out
there but only Rotax Metals offers guaranteed high-quality products. In
operation since 1948, we are fully capable of meeting all of your metal supply
needs. Whether you need copper, brass, or bronze sheet, tube, or bar of the
highest quality, we’ve got you covered. We even perform special services, such
as metal shearing, water jet cutting, and metal fabrication.
Sources:
Brass Alloys and Their Applications, thebalance.com
Brass, madehow.com
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