Types of Brass Grades Commonly Used in CNC Machining Brass grades are divided into several categories based on zinc, copper, lead and iron content. The proportions of these contents vary in physical and mechanical properties, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Of the various types, there are four grades, C-360, C-260 and C-280 and C-646, which are the most commonly used brasses in CNC manufacturing.
C-360 is the best type of brass among others due to its excellent machinability and strength. Zinc (about 35%), lead and iron (about 3%) and the remaining copper make up the composition of C 360-brass. Most of its applications are automated screws, musical instruments, hardware and medical device parts. However, it has some drawbacks due to the lead content. For example, it occasionally produces a cracked surface finish and is sensitive to acids.
C-260,The additional zinc-copper formulation, contains small amounts of lead and iron. The zinc contains about 20 per cent and 1 per cent lead and iron. It is also commonly referred to by manufacturers as cartridge brass because of its historical use in ammunition cartridges. This brass has good thermal conductivity, corrosion resistance and tensile strength, making it suitable for many applications including electrical outlets, artificial jewellery, push buttons, pressure delivery systems and watch parts.
C-280 It is a strong brass grade originally developed for hull linings. It has a 3:2 ratio of copper to zinc in its structure, and is effective in the manufacture of marine and architectural components due to its high strength and excellent corrosion resistance.
This brass,
C-464, is specifically designed for the production of naval ship parts in high humidity environments. Its unique composition provides exceptional corrosion resistance and high strength. It contains 59% copper, 40% zinc, 1% tin and very little tin. Of course, being strong can make CNC machining more challenging, but we have the professional tools and expert engineers to make it perfect.
