Brass round bars represent a critical class of precision-engineered materials that combine metallurgical excellence with functional versatility. These cylindrical stock materials, produced to exacting Brass Round Bar ASTM and DIN standards, serve as fundamental components in high-performance mechanical systems, electrical infrastructure, and marine applications.
This engineering-focused guide examines:
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Material science fundamentals of copper-zinc alloys
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Standard specifications across global grading systems
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Advanced mechanical properties and performance data
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Precision machining considerations
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Industry-specific application engineering
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Technical procurement guidelines
Metallurgical Composition Analysis
Base Alloy Matrix
| Element | Percentage Range | Functional Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Copper (Cu) | 58-95% | Corrosion resistance, conductivity |
| Zinc (Zn) | 5-42% | Strength enhancement, cost reduction |
Engineered Additives
| Alloying Element | Technical Benefit | Commercial Grade Example |
|---|---|---|
| Lead (1-3%) | Chip-breaking during machining | C36000 (Free-cutting brass) |
| Tin (0.5-2%) | Seawater corrosion resistance | C46400 (Naval brass) |
| Aluminum (0.5-2%) | Oxide layer formation | C68700 (Aluminum brass) |
| Manganese (0.5-3%) | Work hardening resistance | C67500 (Manganese brass) |
Mechanical Properties Database
Comparative Property Matrix
| Property | C26000 (Cartridge) | C36000 (Free-cut) | C46400 (Naval) | C48500 (Leaded Naval) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile (MPa) | 325-550 | 340-470 | 380-520 | 400-550 |
| Yield (MPa) | 105-400 | 170-310 | 170-380 | 200-400 |
| Elongation (%) | 55-15 | 50-18 | 50-15 | 45-12 |
| Hardness (HB) | 60-155 | 80-135 | 85-150 | 90-160 |
| Machinability (%) | 60 | 100 | 50 | 90 |
Note: Values vary with temper and processing
Precision Machining Technical Guidelines
Optimal Machining Parameters
| Operation | Speed (SFM) | Feed (IPR) | Depth of Cut | Tool Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turning | 300-600 | 0.005-0.020 | 0.100-0.250 | Carbide/K10 |
| Drilling | 150-300 | 0.003-0.010 | - | HSS-Co |
| Milling | 250-500 | 0.002-0.015 | 0.050-0.150 | Carbide |
| Threading | 100-200 | Pitch-dependent | - | HSS-E |
Surface Finish Considerations
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As-drawn: 125-250 μin Ra
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Turned: 32-125 μin Ra
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Ground: 16-32 μin Ra
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Polished: <16 μin Ra
Engineering Applications by Industry Sector
1. Power Generation Systems
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Turbine governor components (C48500)
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Bushing for hydroelectric plants (C86300)
2. Aerospace & Defense
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Landing gear bushings (AMS 4610)
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Radar waveguide components (C26000)
3. Medical Device Manufacturing
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Surgical instrument fittings (C36000)
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MRI component shielding (C22000)
4. High-Vacuum Systems
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Particle accelerator components (C27200)
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Semiconductor chamber fittings (C36000)
Technical Procurement Checklist
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Material Certification
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Mill test reports per ASTM B249
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RoHS/REACH compliance documentation
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Dimensional Tolerances
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Diameter: ±0.001" (precision ground)
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Straightness: 0.010"/ft max
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Processing Requirements
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Stress-relieved condition
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Ultrasonic testing for critical applications
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Packaging Specifications
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VCI paper for corrosion protection
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End caps for thread protection
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Advanced Performance Testing Methods
Quality Verification Protocols
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Metallography
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Grain size analysis per ASTM E112
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Phase distribution examination
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Corrosion Testing
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Salt spray (ASTM B117)
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Stress corrosion cracking (ASTM G36)
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Non-Destructive Evaluation
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Eddy current testing
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Ultrasonic thickness measurement
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Conclusion: Engineering-Driven Material Selection
Brass round bars offer unparalleled design flexibility when properly specified for:
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Fatigue resistance in dynamic applications
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Galvanic compatibility in mixed-metal systems
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Precision dimensional stability in machined components
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