Knowledge about machining brass parts with CNC machines
August 20, 2022
We'll start with a few assumptions. We will assume that since you are reading this, you are a CNC machinist or interested in CNC machining. More importantly, you are reading this because you know the difference in machining of materials like steel, nylon and brass. OK, so, with all that, we're going to teach you a little bit about machining brass materials on CNC machines.
Best Machined Brass
The chemical formula for making brass alloys is simple; add zinc to copper and stir in a pinch of lead, and you have brass. The exact formula depends on what you want to do. Some formulations contain more zinc or copper, but the best brass for machining should contain at least 2% lead to help improve machining characteristics. Added lead maintains higher ductility, resulting in cleaner, smoother cuts and longer edge life. CNC machinists familiar with the benefits of brass enjoy better machine output and tool performance.
Why Brass?
Due to its low corrosivity and high electrical conductivity, brass is the metal of choice for a wide variety of products. Valves, hoses, fittings, electrical components and a host of other items are made of brass. As a machining material, brass is a "low friction" metal. This means that less power and longer tool life can be used to machine brass. Due to their properties, many manufacturers prefer to machine brass components, as they can speed up CNC machines without affecting the workpiece. Faster production and fewer tool changes equals more profit. The best brass for machining is known as alloy 360, free-machined or cut brass.
The History of Tool Brass
Composite brass existed before anyone wrote it. It appeared in history books around 300 BC and has continued into modern times. Brass has long been a metal of choice because it doesn't rust easily, shines well, and can withstand abuse. Everyone from metallurgists in ancient Greece and Rome to foundries in China and smelters in India made brass for swords, shields, and other useful items. Brass adorns women's wrists, elite carriages, and brass buttons on the uniforms of soldiers and sailors. The diversity of uses has only increased over time, and the introduction of technology in recent years has significantly increased the consumption of brass.
Modern uses for machined brass parts
Over time, brass has been introduced into more and more everyday items as well as some specialized items. Some of the items we process brass are small, while others are very large. From valve stems for car tires to accessories for sailboats, the range of products is truly limitless. Knowing the machining qualities of different brass alloys can expand production capacity as well as sales and marketing opportunities. By incorporating brass CNC machining capabilities into production, a machine shop or high-capacity plant can increase its contribution to the bottom line.