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Bronze, brass, and copper are collectively known as “red metals” because they all have a slightly reddish appearance. Also, with the same element copper, they have similar fundamental properties like electrical conductivity. However, a slight difference in chemical composition can make a huge difference.
At RICHCONN, we often receive questions from customers about the differences between bronze, brass, and copper, particularly regarding their suitability for various applications. That’s why we write this guide to help our customers and you make wise decisions. We hope this guide will help you understand the strengths and best uses of bronze, brass, and copper in the metal machining industry, ensuring you select the ideal material for your specific needs.
What Is Bronze?
Bronze is a metal alloy made mostly of copper, mixed with roughly 10% tin, and sometimes includes other elements like aluminum, manganese, nickel, or zinc. These additional elements can enhance the alloy’s strength, hardness, and resistance to corrosion, making bronze more useful than pure copper in many applications.
The History & Applications of Bronze
Bronze has been used since around 3300 BC, marking the Bronze Age. In ancient times, bronze was commonly used for making tools, weapons, and art. Bronze coins were also common due to their durability.
Nowadays, bronze is widely used in industrial applications for different properties. For example, bronze can be used for bearings, bushings, and marine components due to its strength and resistance to friction and corrosion. It also can be used in electrical connectors for its excellent conductivity.
Available Grades of Bronze
Bronze has various grades due to differences in composition. Here are the common 2 grades of bronze:
- Alloy 932: This high-leaded tin bronze is used for making bushings, washers, and non-pressure components.
- Alloy 954: This aluminum bronze is suitable for mounting and industrial equipment in various environments.
Select The Right Bronze Grade For Your CNC Machining Project
For components requiring durability and resistance to wear, Alloy 932 is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if your project involves industrial equipment or requires enhanced performance in diverse environments, Alloy 954 offers superior strength and corrosion resistance.
What is Brass?
Like bronze, brass is a metal alloy made of copper and zinc but with different proportions. Brass typically contains around 60-70% copper and 30-40% zinc, though other metals like lead or tin may be added to enhance its properties. Known for its bright, gold-like appearance, brass is valued for its resistance to corrosion and tarnishing.
The History & Applications of Brazz
Brass, which appeared later than bronze, has been used since around 500 BC. In ancient times, brass was used by civilizations like the Romans and Greeks for coins, jewelry, and decorative items.
Nowadays, brass is widely used in a range of modern applications. For instance, it is used in plumbing fittings, electrical connectors, and machinery components due to its machinability and resistance to corrosion. Brass is also popular in musical instruments for its acoustic properties.
Available Grades of Brass
Brass has various grades due to differences in composition. Here are the common 8 grades of brass:
- Alloy 260: Also known as cartridge brass, Alloy 260 demonstrates good cold working properties. It is suitable for use in ammunition, automobiles, fasteners, and hardware.
- Alloy 272: Referred to as yellow brass, Alloy 272 consists of 33% zinc and is typically used in industrial and architectural applications.
- Alloy 330: Ideal for high machinability applications, Alloy 330 has low lead content, making it suitable for pipe production and cold-working.
- Alloy 353: Known as clock brass, Alloy 353 is often used to fabricate precision components such as clock and watch parts due to its excellent machinability.
- Alloy 360: Known as free-cutting brass, Alloy 360 is highly machinable and formable, making it common for hardware components, fittings, valves, and fasteners.
- Alloy 385: Also known as architectural bronze, this alloy is used in construction and architectural applications, available in various shapes such as angles, channels, and square tubes.
- Alloy C48200 – C48500: Leaded naval brass intended for machining, typically available in rounds.
- Alloy 464: Naval brass known for its excellent seawater corrosion resistance, suitable for hot forming, bending, soldering, brazing, and welding.
Select The Right Brass Grade For Your CNC Machining Project
For projects requiring excellent machinability and formability, Alloy 360 or Alloy 353 are ideal. If corrosion resistance and durability are crucial, Alloy 464 or Alloy C48200 – C48500 are excellent choices. For specific applications like ammunition or architectural features, Alloy 260 or Alloy 385 will meet your needs effectively.
What is Copper?
Unlike bronze and brass, copper is a pure metal known for its reddish-brown color and excellent conductivity. It stands out for its thermal and electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance, and malleability.
The History & Applications of Copper
Copper is one of the earliest metals used by humans since around 8700 BC. In ancient times, copper was primarily used to make tools, weapons, and various artifacts. It was also used in early plumbing systems and for crafting coins.
Nowadays, copper is widely used in the electrical industry due to its excellent conductivity. It is also common in plumbing for pipes, roofing materials, and industrial machinery because of its durability and resistance to corrosion.
Available Grades of Copper
Copper has various grades due to differences in composition. Here are the common 4 grades of copper:
- Alloy 101: Oxygen-free copper with high conductivity and ductility, ideal for electrical components.
- Alloy 110: Electrolytic tough pitch (ETP) copper with the highest electrical and thermal conductivity, plus good ductility.
- Alloy 122: Similar to Alloy 110, but with better formability, weldability, and brazing capabilities; available in tubing.
- Alloy 145: Tellurium copper with excellent machinability, thermal and electrical conductivity; available in rod and bar forms.
Select The Right Copper Grade For Your CNC Machining Project
For high conductivity applications, Alloy 110 is ideal. For improved formability and welding, Alloy 122 is a better choice. If excellent machinability is needed, Alloy 145 is well-suited. Alloy 101 is a top choice for high-performance electrical components.
Bronze vs. Brass vs. Copper: Comparison In Details
Before diving into the detailed comparison chart, please check out this helpful video link below:
Now let’s explore the following chart.
| Characteristics | Bronze | Brass | Copper |
| Composition | Copper (90-95%) + Tin (5-10%) + Other elements (Al, Mn, Ni, Zn) | Copper (60-70%) + Zinc (30-40%) + Other metals (Pb, Sn, Al) | Pure Copper (99%+) |
| Corrosion Resistance | Very good, especially in marine environments. | Intermediate | Very good |
| Density | 7.7-8.8 g/cm³ | 8.4-8.7 g/cm³ | 8.96 g/cm³ |
| Yield Strength | 95-124 MPa | 125-800 MPa | 33.3 MPa |
| Tensile Strength | 338-469 MPa | 350-635 MPa | 210 MPa |
| Thermal Conductivity | 109-121 W/m·K | 24-108 W/m·K | 210-400 W/m·K |
| Electrical Conductivity | High (less than copper) | Moderate (less than brass and copper) | Very high |
| Hardness | 65-95 BHN | 60-290 BHN | 60-95 BHN |
| Weight | Light | Moderate | Heaviest |
| Durability | Moderate | High | Moderate |
| Weldability | Good | Poor | Excellent |
| Machinability | Good to excellent | Fair to good | Fair |
| Melting Point | 900-940°C | 1,085-1,130°C | 1,085°C |
| Environmental Impact | Generally low, but alloying elements like lead can be harmful. | Low, but brass with lead can have environmental concerns. | Low impact, but mining and processing have environmental effects. |
Key Differences Between Bronze, Brass, and Copper
- Strength and Hardness: Bronze is the strongest and hardest of the three, with higher tensile and yield strength, whereas brass has moderate strength and hardness, and copper is the least strong and hardest.
- Thermal and Electrical Conductivity: Copper boasts the highest thermal and electrical conductivity, surpassing both brass and bronze, with brass offering better conductivity than bronze.
- 图alt:thermal and electrical conductivity of copper -RICHCONN
- Corrosion Resistance: Bronze provides the best corrosion resistance, especially against seawater, while brass offers good corrosion resistance but is less effective than bronze, and copper has very good resistance but is not as robust in extreme conditions.
- Melting Point: Bronze has the highest melting point, making it suitable for high-temperature applications, followed by copper, with brass having the lowest melting point among the three.
- Machinability and Weldability: Brass excels in machinability and weldability, making it the easiest to work with, while bronze has fair machinability and poor weldability, and copper has fair machinability but excellent weldability.
- Density and Weight: Copper is the heaviest due to its high density, bronze is lighter than copper but heavier than brass, which is the lightest of the three.
Durability: Bronze is the most durable, offering excellent wear resistance and longevity, followed by copper with good durability, and brass, while durable, is less suitable for extreme conditions compared to bronze.
Bronze vs. Brass vs. Copper: 1s-3s Differentiation Guide
Color:
Bronze has a reddish-brown color with a duller sheen compared to brass and copper. Brass shines with a bright, gold-like appearance, while copper has a distinctive reddish-orange hue.
Uses:
Bronze is commonly used for items that need to withstand heavy wear and tear, like bearings and marine components. Brass, with its workability and resistance to corrosion, is often found in plumbing fittings, electrical connectors, and musical instruments. Copper, known for its excellent conductivity, is widely used in electrical wiring and plumbing.
Bronze produces a deeper, more muted “thud” sound when struck, similar to a heavy, dense bell. Brass makes a clearer, brighter “clang” or “ring” that resonates more sharply, much like a musical instrument. Copper creates a duller, softer “thump,” less resonant than both bronze and brass.
Bronze vs. Brass vs. Copper: The Right Material for Your CNC Machining Project
Bronze is ideal for applications demanding high strength, durability, and resistance to wear and corrosion. It excels in marine environments and heavy-duty components like bearings and bushings. If your project involves components that must withstand significant mechanical stress or corrosive conditions, bronze offers a superior blend of toughness and resilience.
Brass is the go-to choice when machinability and appearance are crucial. Its bright, gold-like finish makes it popular for decorative elements and fittings. Brass is perfect for applications like plumbing components, electrical connectors, and precision instruments where good machinability and moderate corrosion resistance are needed.
Copper is the best option for projects requiring exceptional thermal and electrical conductivity. It is commonly used in electrical wiring and plumbing due to its high conductivity and malleability. Copper’s workability makes it a strong choice for applications that involve extensive shaping or high-performance electrical components.
Bronze vs. Brass vs Copper: Comparison of CNC Machining Tips
To boost machining efficiency, here’s a brief comparison of CNC machining tips for bronze, brass, and copper.
| Aspect | Bronze | Brass | Copper |
| Tool Selection | Carbide or coated tools | Carbide or high-speed steel tools | Sharp carbide or high-speed steel tools |
| Cutting Speed | Moderate cutting speeds for tool life and efficiency | Moderate cutting speeds, adjust to prevent overheating | Lower cutting speeds to avoid heat buildup |
| Lubrication | Proper lubrication to reduce friction and wear | Cutting fluids to keep temperatures down | Adequate lubrication to reduce friction |
| Chip Control | Efficient chip evacuation for tough chips | Use chip breakers and vacuums for clear cutting path | Manage sticky chips carefully |
| Workpiece Stability | Maintain rigid setup to minimize vibrations | Secure firmly to avoid vibrations | Secure firmly to minimize vibrations |
Choose RICHCONN For Your Metal Machining Needs
At RICHCONN, we deliver top-notch metal machining services tailored to your needs. Here’s why we stand out:
Precision: our cutting-edge CNC machines ensure every part is made precisely. We know accuracy is crucial in metalworking, and our advanced technology guarantees each piece meets the highest quality standards.
Customization: whatever your project requires, we’ve got you covered. Need a specific alloy, custom shape, or unique finish? Our skilled team can customize every detail to fit your exact needs.
Customer Support: From the initial consultation to the final part, our customer support team is ready to help. We keep communication clear and provide timely updates.
Feel free to contact us today to discuss your project and see how we can help you.
In Summary
This guide explores the distinct characteristics and applications of bronze, brass, and copper. Bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, is known for its strength and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for industrial and marine uses. Brass, composed of copper and zinc, is appreciated for its bright appearance, ease of machining, and resistance to tarnishing, suitable for plumbing fittings, electrical connectors, and musical instruments. Copper, a pure metal, excels in thermal and electrical conductivity, making it the preferred material for electrical wiring and plumbing.
Understanding these differences will help you choose the right material for your CNC machining projects. At RICHCONN, we provide expert guidance and high-quality metal machining services to meet all your project needs.
Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
What makes bronze harder than brass and copper?
Bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, is harder due to the addition of tin, which strengthens its microstructure.
In which applications would I choose bronze over brass or copper?
Choose bronze for applications requiring higher strength and resistance to wear, such as bearings, bushings, and marine hardware. Brass is preferred for decorative items, plumbing, and electrical applications, while copper is ideal for electrical wiring and heat exchangers due to its excellent conductivity.
Can RICHCONN handle custom metal machining orders?
Yes, RICHCONN specializes in custom metal machining orders, catering to specific client needs and specifications.
