C36000 brass, also known as free-machining or free-cutting brass, is composed of 61.5% copper, 35.5% zinc, 3% lead, and 0.35 iron; the high copper and zinc gives the alloy highly durable strength and corrosion resistance while the lead makes it workable. These elements each lend properties that allow C360 brass to have remarkable material properties, including its high compatibility with a wide range of machining techniques, its high tensile and yield strength, and impressive density.
Aside from C360 brass’s primary features, its appearance and smooth surface make it a popular choice in decorative and structural applications. For mechanical properties, C360 brass offers 117GPa elastic modulus, 37 GPa shear modulus, 53% elongation at break, and 0.34 Poisson’s ratio as well as unique thermal and electrical properties. These features make for use in a wide range of applications in various industries, from screw machine components and central heating systems to fluid connectors and aircraft fittings.
| Property | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Material Type | Free-Cutting Brass (360 Alloy) | UNS C36000; ASTM B16; CuZn36Pb3 |
| Composition | Cu ~60–63%, Zn ~35–37%, Pb ~2.5–3.7% | Lead improves machinability |
| Density | ~8.5 g/cm³ | ~0.307 lb/in³ |
| Melting Point | ~875–895°C | ~1,605–1,640°F |
| Hardness (Brinell) | ~100–130 HB | Depends on temper (cold worked = harder) |
| Tensile Strength | ~310–450 MPa | ~45,000–65,000 psi |
| Yield Strength | ~110–345 MPa | ~16,000–50,000 psi |
| Elongation at Break | ~10–30% | Decent ductility for cold-formed parts |
| Modulus of Elasticity | ~100 GPa | ~14.5 x 10⁶ psi |
| Electrical Conductivity | ~28% IACS | Lower than copper, but adequate for many electrical fittings |
| Corrosion Resistance | Good | Not ideal for highly acidic or ammonia-rich environments |
| Machinability | Excellent (100% baseline) | Industry standard for machinability |
| Weldability | Poor | Better joined by brazing or soldering |
| Thermal Conductivity | ~120 W/m·K | Good for thermal transfer applications |
| Magnetism | Non-magnetic | Useful for decorative and electrical uses |
| Applications | Screws, valves, fittings, machined parts | Ideal for high-volume, precision turning |
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