Brass Blanks
Brass blanks offer an outstanding combination of machinability, corrosion resistance, and visual appeal that few other metals can match. As a copper-zinc alloy, brass machines faster than steel or aluminum with excellent chip formation, making it the material of choice for screw machine products, precision fittings, and decorative hardware. Our brass blank selection includes C260 cartridge brass for stamping and forming, C360 free-machining brass for high-speed screw machine work and CNC turning, and C230 red brass for plumbing components and decorative applications where a warmer color is desired. Brass does not spark when struck, making it essential for tools used in explosive environments. Every blank is cut from certified mill stock with clean edges and consistent alloy composition. From engraving plates and instrument components to valve bodies and architectural trim, brass blanks deliver the workability and finish quality your projects demand.
Available Forms
Grade Reference
| Grade | Type | Common Use | Typical Form |
|---|---|---|---|
| C260 | Cartridge Brass | Stamping & hardware | Sheet |
| C360 | Free Machining | Screw machine parts | Bar |
| C230 | Red Brass | Plumbing & decorative | Sheet |
Detailed Specs by Grade & Form
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes C360 brass so easy to machine?
C360, also known as free-machining brass, contains approximately 3% lead which acts as a chip breaker during cutting operations. This lead content allows the material to form small, easily evacuated chips rather than long stringy ones, enabling higher cutting speeds and longer tool life. C360 achieves a machinability rating of 100, which is actually the benchmark against which all other copper alloys are measured. It is the default choice for any turned, drilled, or tapped brass component where maximum production speed is required.
Is brass suitable for outdoor applications?
Yes, brass develops a natural protective patina when exposed to the elements that prevents further corrosion, similar to copper. This makes it excellent for marine hardware, architectural fixtures, and outdoor decorative elements. C230 red brass has the highest copper content of the common alloys and offers the best corrosion resistance for outdoor use. If you want to maintain the polished appearance, regular application of a protective lacquer or wax coating will prevent the patina from forming while still benefiting from the underlying corrosion resistance.
Can brass blanks be soldered?
Brass is one of the easiest metals to solder, accepting both soft solder and silver braze alloys with standard rosin or acid fluxes. For decorative and jewelry work, soft soldering with tin-silver alloys produces clean, strong joints. For plumbing and higher-strength applications, silver brazing provides joints that exceed the strength of the base metal. The key is to ensure the surface is clean and free of oxidation before soldering. A light abrasion with fine sandpaper followed by flux application will produce reliable, well-wetted solder joints.
What is the difference between yellow brass and red brass?
Yellow brass alloys like C260 contain approximately 70% copper and 30% zinc, giving them a bright golden color, high strength, and excellent formability for stamping and drawing operations. Red brass alloys like C230 contain about 85% copper and 15% zinc, producing a warmer reddish-gold tone with superior corrosion resistance and better resistance to dezincification. Red brass is preferred for plumbing, marine fittings, and decorative applications where corrosion resistance is critical. Yellow brass is the more economical option for general hardware, engraving plates, and formed parts.