Top 5 Grades of Brass & Their Industrial Uses

From free-cutting brass to high tensile alloys, learn how different grades serve unique functions in electrical, plumbing, and automotive industries. Brass is a diverse material, and each grade is tailored to specific engineering and mechanical needs depending on its composition.

1. Free-Cutting Brass (C360): Known for its excellent machinability, it’s used for manufacturing fasteners, gears, and precision components that demand tight tolerances.

2. Red Brass (C230): With high copper content, this grade is ideal for decorative hardware, musical instruments, and plumbing due to its corrosion resistance and aesthetic appeal.

3. High Tensile Brass: Reinforced with manganese and iron, this grade offers strength and durability for marine hardware, hydraulic fittings, and locomotive parts.

4. Engraving Brass (C35600/C37000): Favored for decorative plates and signage, this grade can be easily engraved and formed, making it perfect for architectural and artistic use.

5. Arsenical Brass (C26000): Commonly used in plumbing, radiators, and marine applications, it’s formulated to resist dezincification and corrosion in moist environments.

Understanding brass grades helps industries choose the right alloy for performance, durability, and cost-efficiency in various demanding applications.