Brass
Machines beautifully and holds a fine finish — with one corrosion trap worth knowing about.
The easiest metal to machine. It holds a fine surface finish directly off the tool, which often removes the need for a finishing pass.
Quote a Brass partWhat we hold and what we can hold
Figures below are what our shops achieve on prototype quantities. A production order may justify tighter — or looser — tolerances, and that is a conversation, not a default.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Typical use | Connectors, RF parts, inserts, valve components |
| Machinability | Excellent |
| Achievable tolerance | ±0.05 mm achievable |
| Typical lead time | 3–6 working days |
| Common grades | C360 free-machining brass · C260 cartridge brass · CZ121 lead-free |
| Recommended finishes | Bead blasting · Brushing · Tumbling · Polishing |
| Suitable processes | 3-axis milling · CNC turning · Swiss turning |
What engineers ask about Brass
These are the questions that come up on almost every Brass drawing. If your question is not here, send it with the drawing and we will answer it in the quote.
What is dezincification and does it affect my part?
In wet service, dezincification selectively leaches zinc out of the brass surface, leaving a porous copper layer that can weaken the part. For a static part in dry conditions it is not a concern; for a valve or a continuously wet fitting we specify a dezincification-resistant grade.
Do I need lead-free brass?
If the part touches drinking water or food, yes — EU and US rules restrict lead content in those applications. We will confirm the alloy on the quote.
Where this material fits
Surface finishes for Brass
When not to use Brass
We would rather tell you on day one than ship you a part that was never the right answer. If one of these applies to your project, say so in the enquiry.
- Continuously wet service where dezincification is a risk
- High-temperature service
- Structural parts that need steel or aluminium strength