Brass C260

Brass C260 is a versatile, free-machining copper alloy commonly used in various industrial applications such as plumbing, electrical, and automotive systems.

Introduction to Brass C260

Brass C260, known for its excellent machinability, is a copper-zinc alloy that combines high strength and ductility with a bright, shiny finish. It offers superior machinability and corrosion resistance compared to other brass alloys, making it an ideal choice for precision machining. It provides a perfect conductivity, strength, and formability balance, distinguishing it from many different materials.

This versatile alloy is commonly used in CNC machined parts like connectors, fittings, valves, and fasteners. Its excellent workability and durability make it suitable for electrical, automotive, and plumbing industries, where function and aesthetics are crucial.

Chemical, Physical, and Mechanical Properties of Brass C260

Chemical Composition (Typical)

Element	Composition Range (wt.%)	Key Role
Copper (Cu)	60.0–70.0%	Provides strength, conductivity, and corrosion resistance
Zinc (Zn)	30.0–40.0%	Enhances strength and material hardness
Iron (Fe)	≤0.5%	Minimal impact on properties
Lead (Pb)	≤0.1%	Improves machinability and lubricity

Physical Properties

Property	Value (Typical)	Test Standard/Condition
Density	8.4 g/cm³	ASTM B311
Melting Point	900–950°C	ASTM E29
Thermal Conductivity	120 W/m·K at 20°C	ASTM E1952
Electrical Conductivity	20% IACS at 20°C	ASTM B193
Coefficient of Expansion	19 µm/m·°C	ASTM E228
Specific Heat Capacity	380 J/kg·K	ASTM E1269
Elastic Modulus	105 GPa	ASTM E111

Mechanical Properties (Annealed Temper)

Property	Value (Typical)	Test Standard
Tensile Strength	330–400 MPa	ASTM E8/E8M
Yield Strength (0.2%)	220–320 MPa	ASTM E8/E8M
Elongation	35–45%	ASTM E8/E8M
Hardness	60–80 HB	ASTM E10
Fatigue Strength	~200 MPa	ASTM E466
Impact Resistance	150–250 J	ASTM E23

Key Characteristics of Brass C260

Excellent Machinability

Brass C260 is highly machinable, reducing tool wear and enhancing production efficiency compared to other brass alloys.

Moderate Strength and High Ductility

Offers a good balance of strength and ductility, allowing for easy forming and bending without cracking.

Corrosion Resistance

Brass C260 resists corrosion in fresh water and atmospheric conditions, though not ideal for marine environments.

Good Electrical and Thermal Conductivity

With high copper content, Brass C260 excels in electrical and thermal conductivity, making it ideal for electrical connectors.

Aesthetic Appeal

Brass C260 has a bright, shiny golden color that is ideal for decorative parts. Its aesthetic quality is highly valued in applications such as jewelry, plumbing fixtures, and high-end connectors.

CNC Machining Challenges and Solutions for Brass C260

Machining Challenges

Chip Formation Brass C260 generates long, stringy chips that can block the machining process and reduce efficiency.
Solution: Use chip breakers and adjust feed rates to manage chip formation. Air or coolant can also help in chip removal.
Tool Wear Despite being a free-machining alloy, Brass C260 can cause tool wear over time due to the cutting forces involved.
Solution: Use carbide or ceramic cutting tools to enhance tool life and reduce wear.
Surface Finish Quality Achieving a smooth finish can be challenging due to the alloy’s tendency to create rough edges.
Solution: Employ high-speed cutting with sharp, high-quality tools and proper lubrication for smooth surfaces.
Work Hardening Brass C260 can experience work hardening if excessive pressure or speed is applied during machining.
Solution: Use moderate cutting speeds, sharp tools, and sufficient coolant to reduce the chances of work hardening.

Optimized Machining Strategies

Parameter	Recommendation	Rationale
Tool Material	Carbide or ceramic tools	These materials offer superior wear resistance and cutting performance.
Geometry	Positive rake, sharp edges	Enhances chip flow and improves surface finish.
Cutting Speed	150–250 m/min	Reduces heat buildup and prevents material deformation.
Feed Rate	0.10–0.20 mm/rev	Ensures smooth cutting and prevents burr formation.
Coolant	Flood coolant or air blast	Reduces heat and improves surface finish.

Brass C260 Cutting Parameters (ISO 513 Compliance)

Operation	Speed (m/min)	Feed (mm/rev)	Depth of Cut (mm)	Coolant Pressure (bar)
Roughing	150–200	0.15–0.20	2.0–3.5	25–35
Finishing	200–250	0.05–0.10	0.5–1.0	30–50

Typical Machining Methods for Brass C260

Machining Process	Function and Benefit for Brass C260
CNC Machining	Ideal for high-speed, precision machining of small components such as connectors and fasteners.
CNC Milling	Suitable for creating slots, grooves, and complex shapes in components like valves and fittings.
CNC Turning	Used for turning cylindrical parts like bushings, gears, and mechanical components.
CNC Drilling	Ideal for precise hole creation for fasteners and mechanical parts.
CNC Boring	Ensures precise internal machining of parts like bearings and bushings.
CNC Grinding	Provides smooth finishes for parts exposed to wear and tear, like gears and shafts.
Multi-Axis Machining	Ideal for producing complex, multi-featured parts for industries such as aerospace and automotive.
Precision Machining	Provides ultra-tight tolerances for components requiring high-precision performance.
EDM Machining	Used for creating intricate features and fine details in automotive and industrial parts.

Surface Treatment for Brass C260 CNC Parts

Electroplating: Enhances corrosion resistance and gives components like connectors and fittings a shiny finish.
Polishing: Achieves a high-gloss finish that improves decorative parts' appearance and functionality.
Brushing: Creates a satin or matte finish for parts exposed to frequent handling or environmental stress.
PVD Coating: Adds a durable coating that increases wear resistance and enhances the part’s life.
Passivation: Improves corrosion resistance, especially for parts exposed to chemicals.
Powder Coating: Provides a thick, protective finish ideal for parts exposed to UV light and harsh conditions.
Teflon Coating: Adds non-stick, chemical-resistant properties, ideal for high-performance mechanical applications.
Chrome Plating: Provides a glossy, durable coating that resists corrosion and adds an aesthetic touch to mechanical components.

Industry Applications of Brass C260

Aerospace Industry: Used for manufacturing connectors, bushings, and other parts subjected to high stresses.
Electrical & Power: Ideal for electrical terminals, connectors, and components that require high conductivity.
Automotive Industry: Commonly used for creating gears, fasteners, and connectors in automotive systems.
Medical Industry: Used for producing precise medical device and equipment components that require high reliability and performance.