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Brass
CNC Machining Services

Material
Lead Time
5 – 22 Days
Cost

$$

Machined Brass Description

CNC-machined brass is a popular choice in manufacturing and machining. It is known for its durability and strong mechanical properties, including resistance to corrosion, high strength, and good conductivity. Brass is easy to shape and cut, making it ideal for CNC machining.

Brass makes precise parts in many industries, especially aerospace and automotive. It is also a standard material for sculptures and figurines.

Key Characteristics

Characteristics may vary depending on the grade/alloy.

  • Corrosion Resistant
  • Electrical Conductivity
  • Good Thermal Conductivity
  • High Strength
  • Low-Friction

Applications

  • Decorative Fixtures
  • Electrical Components
  • Hinges
  • Jewelry 
  • Musical Instruments
  • Plumbing Fixtures
  • Rivets
  • Radiator Cores
  • Switches
  • Valves

Industries Utilizing Machined Brass

  • Aerospace & Defense
  • Automotive
  • Construction
  • Consumer Products
  • Electrical
  • Medical, Dental, & Sciences 
  • Plumbing
Why should you choose machined brass for your project?

Machined brass is highly durable and resistant to corrosion. Its polished look makes it an excellent choice for many projects, large or small. It is easy to work with, allowing precise, high-quality parts to be made that meet strict standards. The natural shine and warm colors of machined brass add elegance to any product. Whether used in buildings, hardware, or detailed designs, machined brass improves function and appearance, making it a top choice for skilled makers and artisans.

Finishes for machined brass

Machined brass components can undergo various finishing processes to enhance their appearance and provide protection against corrosion. A polished finish offers a shiny, mirror-like surface achieved through mechanical polishing, while a satin finish presents a soft, matte look created through brushing or bead blasting. On the other hand, an anodized finish forms a protective oxide layer via an electrochemical process, enhancing durability. Lastly, a plated finish adds a thin layer of another metal, such as nickel or chrome, through electroplating. Each of these methods improves the visual appeal of brass components and helps ensure their longevity and functionality.

Brass FAQs

What is brass?

Brass is an alloy made from copper and zinc. The amounts of each metal can change based on the properties needed. Brass has a shiny, gold-like look. It is common in musical instruments, decorative items, plumbing fixtures, and electrical devices.

Brass is flexible, can be shaped easily, and resists corrosion, making it a good choice for outdoor use. It also conducts heat and electricity well. The use of brass goes back to ancient civilizations, and it is still important in modern manufacturing.

Some common types of brass include yellow brass, red brass, and leaded brass.

What are standard finishes for machined brass?

Machined brass can be finished in several ways to improve its look and durability. One standard method is polishing, where abrasives make the brass surface smooth and shiny. Another option is electroplating, which adds a thin layer of another metal, like gold or nickel, to the brass for decoration. You can also apply an antique patina finish to give the brass a vintage appearance by using chemicals or heat to speed up the natural oxidation process. Lastly, a bead-blasted finish uses tiny glass beads to create a matte surface, which works well for industrial or modern designs.

Advantages of machining brass.

Brass is an excellent choice for CNC machining projects because it has many benefits. It is easy to machine, which helps create precise parts with fine details. Brass resists corrosion well, making it suitable for harsh environments. It also conducts heat and electricity effectively, which is why electrical and electronic parts use it.

Brass looks good too, with a shiny gold-like finish that can be polished to enhance its appearance. Another advantage is that brass is more affordable than many other metals.

Prototek Digital Manufacturing offers high-quality CNC machining services using brass and other materials. Contact us today to learn how we can help with your project.

Disadvantages of machining brass.

Brass is commonly used in CNC machining because it is easy to work with and resists corrosion. However, there are some downsides to using brass. It can be more expensive than other materials. Brass is also a soft metal, which can wear down cutting tools more quickly. Additionally, machining brass generates many chips, making it difficult to manage and dispose of them properly. Finally, brass parts may need extra finishing processes to achieve a smooth surface or meet specific requirements, which can take longer and increase costs.

Brass Machining Alloys

Brass C26000

Heat Treatable

No

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

46000 – 99000

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

14000

Hardness (Brinell)

210

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

30%

Brass C36000

Heat Treatable

No

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

48000 – 77000 

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

16000

Hardness (Brinell)

78

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

100%

Brass C46400

Heat Treatable

No

Tensile Strength (Ultimate, PSI)

55000 – 88000

Fatigue Strength (PSI)

14500

Hardness (Brinell)

82

Milled Parts Machinability (AISI Rating)

30%

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