CNC machining of Brass: Everything you need to know

Brass is an alloy made from two metals, copper and zinc, in variable proportions. The content of these two metals depends on the desired mechanical and physical properties. Because of its distinctive properties, Brass has been a popular material for CNC machining to produce various components, from automobiles and medical devices to aircraft. Every day, we interact with many items made of Brass, including furniture, doorknobs, kitchenware, electrical wire, musical instruments, auto parts, and many more.Get more news about brass cnc machined parts wholesaler ,you can vist our website!

In Brass, the proportion of copper is higher (55 to 95%) than the zinc (5 to 45%). Lead is another metal added to the Brass in a low amount ( 2%). The role of the lead is to make Brass easier for the CNC machining process, such as cutting, milling, turning, and more.
Common types of brass grades used in CNC machining
Brass grades are divided into several classifications based on zinc, copper, lead, and iron content. Proportions of these content vary in physical and mechanical properties, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Among the various types, four grades, C- 360, C- 260 C- 280, and C-646, are the most commonly used Brass in CNC manufacturing.

C-360
Because of its superior machinability and strength, it is the best type of Brass among the others. Zinc (about 35%), Lead Iron (about 3%), and the remaining copper make up the composition of C 360- Brass. Most of its applications have been in automatic screws, Musical instruments, hardware, and parts for medical devices. However, due to the lead content, it has some disadvantages as well. For example, it can occasionally produce a cracked surface finish and is sensitive to acids.

C-260
This additional zinc-copper formulation contains a small amount of lead and iron. Zinc contains about 20% and 1% lead and iron. Because historically, it has been used in ammunition cartridges, it is also commonly known as cartridge brass among manufacturers. This Brass’s good heat conductivity, corrosion resistance, and tensile strength make it suitable for many applications, including electrical sockets, costume jewelry, buttons, pressure conveyor systems, and watch parts.

C-280
It is the strong brass grade, initially developed for boat hull lining. The ratio of copper to zinc in its construction is 3:2.

It is very effective for manufacturing marine and architectural components due to its high strength and excellent corrosion resistance.

C-464
This Brass is specifically used to produce naval vessel parts in environments with high moisture levels.

Its unique composition provides extraordinary corrosion resistance properties along with high strength. It comprises 59% copper, 40% zinc, 1% tin, and very little tin. Of course, being strong makes CNC machining a little more challenging, but we have the specialized tools and expert engineers to make it perfect.