Brass C319

Brass C319 is a copper-zinc alloy with excellent machinability, moderate strength, and good corrosion resistance, making it suitable for applications across industries like plumbing, electrical, and automotive systems.

Introduction to Brass C319

Brass C319 is a high-quality copper-zinc alloy with added elements to enhance its mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and machinability. This alloy primarily comprises copper and zinc, with trace amounts of other components that increase its strength and durability. Compared to other brass alloys, Brass C319 offers a balanced combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and good machinability, making it an excellent choice for precision machining. It is highly suitable for applications where a reliable, cost-effective alloy is required.

Brass C319 is commonly used in CNC machined parts such as connectors, fittings, valves, and mechanical components. Its excellent machinability and moderate strength make it ideal for use in the plumbing, electrical, and automotive industries, where both performance and affordability are important.

Chemical, Physical, and Mechanical Properties of Brass C319

Chemical Composition (Typical)

Element	Composition Range (wt.%)	Key Role
Copper (Cu)	61.0–64.0%	Provides strength, conductivity, and corrosion resistance
Zinc (Zn)	35.0–38.0%	Enhances strength and material hardness
Lead (Pb)	≤0.1%	Improves machinability and lubricity
Iron (Fe)	≤0.5%	Minimal impact on properties

Physical Properties

Property	Value (Typical)	Test Standard/Condition
Density	8.4 g/cm³	ASTM B311
Melting Point	900–950°C	ASTM E29
Thermal Conductivity	105 W/m·K at 20°C	ASTM E1952
Electrical Conductivity	16% 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	310–380 MPa	ASTM E8/E8M
Yield Strength (0.2%)	220–290 MPa	ASTM E8/E8M
Elongation	20–30%	ASTM E8/E8M
Hardness	60–90 HB	ASTM E10
Fatigue Strength	~150 MPa	ASTM E466
Impact Resistance	Good	ASTM E23

Key Characteristics of Brass C319

Good Machinability

Brass C319 is known for its excellent machinability, making it suitable for high-speed CNC machining. Its low friction properties minimize tool wear and improve productivity.

Moderate Strength and Durability

Brass C319 balances strength and ductility, making it suitable for parts that need to endure mechanical stress without compromising on flexibility.

Corrosion Resistance

Brass C319 demonstrates good resistance to corrosion in atmospheric and freshwater environments. However, it is less resistant to harsh conditions than other brass alloys like C715, and it is better suited for marine environments.

Good Electrical Conductivity

With its copper content, Brass C319 offers good electrical conductivity, which is essential for electrical connectors, terminals, and other electronic components.

Aesthetic Appeal

Brass C319 has an attractive golden-yellow finish, making it suitable for decorative applications, including hardware, plumbing fixtures, and electrical components.

CNC Machining Challenges and Solutions for Brass C319

Machining Challenges

Chip Formation Brass C319 may produce long, stringy chips during machining, reducing efficiency and affecting productivity.
Solution: Use chip breakers, adjust feed rates, and apply coolant to prevent chip buildup and manage chip formation effectively.
Tool Wear Although Brass C319 is relatively easy to machine, tool wear can still occur over time, especially during high-speed cutting operations.
Solution: Use high-performance carbide or ceramic tools to withstand the wear and tear of machining Brass C319, increasing tool life and reducing downtime.
Surface Finish Quality Brass C319 may have rough edges when machined, making achieving a smooth surface finish challenging.
Solution: Apply high-speed cutting techniques with sharp tools and adequate lubrication to achieve a smoother, more polished surface.
Work Hardening Brass C319 can experience work hardening if too much pressure or speed is applied during machining.
Solution: Use moderate cutting speeds, sharp tools, and sufficient coolant to reduce work hardening and maintain machining efficiency.

Optimized Machining Strategies

Parameter	Recommendation	Rationale
Tool Material	Carbide or ceramic tools	These materials provide excellent wear resistance and superior cutting performance.
Geometry	Positive rake, sharp edges	Improves chip flow and results in smoother surface finishes.
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 enhances surface finish.

Brass C319 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 C319

Machining Process	Function and Benefit for Brass C319
CNC Machining	Ideal for high-speed, precision machining of components such as connectors, bushings, and valves in plumbing and electrical industries.
CNC Milling	Suitable for creating slots, grooves, and complex shapes in components like valves, connectors, and fittings.
CNC Turning	Used for turning cylindrical parts such as bushings, gears, and connectors in automotive and industrial machinery applications.
CNC Drilling	Ideal for creating precise holes for fasteners and mechanical parts, especially in the automotive and electrical industries.
CNC Boring	Ensures precision internal machining for parts like bearings and bushings. Common in industrial and automotive systems.
CNC Grinding	Provides smooth finishes for parts exposed to wear and tear, such as gears and shafts. Commonly used in automotive and industrial applications.
Multi-Axis Machining	Ideal for producing complex, multi-featured parts in industries such as aerospace and automotive.
Precision Machining	Provides ultra-tight tolerances for high-performance components used in industries like medical devices and aerospace.
EDM Machining	Used for creating intricate features and fine details in parts such as connectors and switches in automotive and electrical applications.

Surface Treatment for Brass C319 CNC Parts

Electroplating: Enhances corrosion resistance and provides a shiny finish for electrical connectors and other components.
Polishing: Achieves a high-gloss finish for decorative parts and improves functionality.
Brushing: Creates satin or matte finishes for components exposed to frequent handling.
PVD Coating: Adds a durable coating that increases wear resistance and extends the part's life.
Passivation: Improves corrosion resistance, especially for components 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 and chemical-resistant properties, which are ideal for mechanical applications.
Chrome Plating: Provides a glossy, durable coating that resists corrosion and enhances appearance.

Industry Applications of Brass C319

Aerospace Industry: Used for manufacturing components like connectors, bushings, and fittings subjected to high stresses.
Electrical & Power: Ideal for electrical connectors, terminals, and components that require high conductivity and durability.
Automotive Industry: Commonly used in automotive applications such as connectors, bushings, and fittings.
Plumbing Industry: Used in producing valves, fittings, and other components exposed to moisture.