Brass C486
Introduction to Brass C486
Brass C486 is a high-performance copper-zinc alloy with a small percentage of tin to improve its corrosion resistance, especially in more demanding environments. Brass C486 combines excellent strength with superior machinability, making it ideal for high-precision CNC machining applications. Compared to other brass alloys, C486 offers a good balance of strength, durability, and formability, making it suitable for various industrial applications. It is commonly used in the automotive, electrical, and industrial machinery industries for components that need strength and corrosion resistance. Precision machining is well-suited for this alloy due to its ease of machining.
Brass C486 is widely used in CNC machined parts such as fittings, connectors, and valves. Its high mechanical strength and corrosion resistance suit components exposed to aggressive environments, such as marine applications and industrial systems.
Chemical, Physical, and Mechanical Properties of Brass C486
Chemical Composition (Typical)
Element | Composition Range (wt.%) | Key Role |
|---|---|---|
Copper (Cu) | 60.0–65.0% | Provides strength, conductivity, and corrosion resistance |
Zinc (Zn) | 35.0–39.0% | Enhances strength and material hardness |
Tin (Sn) | 1.0–2.5% | Improves corrosion resistance, especially to seawater |
Iron (Fe) | ≤0.5% | Minimal effect on properties |
Physical Properties
Property | Value (Typical) | Test Standard/Condition |
|---|---|---|
Density | 8.7 g/cm³ | ASTM B311 |
Melting Point | 900–950°C | ASTM E29 |
Thermal Conductivity | 85 W/m·K at 20°C | ASTM E1952 |
Electrical Conductivity | 15% 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 | 110 GPa | ASTM E111 |
Mechanical Properties (Annealed Temper)
Property | Value (Typical) | Test Standard |
|---|---|---|
Tensile Strength | 400–490 MPa | ASTM E8/E8M |
Yield Strength (0.2%) | 300–380 MPa | ASTM E8/E8M |
Elongation | 15–25% | ASTM E8/E8M |
Hardness | 75–95 HB | ASTM E10 |
Fatigue Strength | ~200 MPa | ASTM E466 |
Impact Resistance | Good | ASTM E23 |
Key Characteristics of Brass C486
Enhanced Corrosion Resistance
Brass C486, with its tin content, provides enhanced resistance to corrosion, particularly in marine environments and applications where moisture is present.
Good Strength and Durability
This alloy offers high tensile strength, making it durable under mechanical stress. It is suitable for heavy-duty applications that require reliable performance and long-lasting durability.
Excellent Machinability
Brass C486 has excellent machinability, making it ideal for high-speed CNC machining. It reduces tool wear and minimizes downtime, which is essential for large-scale production processes.
Electrical Conductivity
While Brass C486 is primarily known for its mechanical properties, it still maintains good electrical conductivity, making it suitable for electrical connectors, terminals, and similar components.
Aesthetic Appeal
Brass C486 has an attractive golden color, making it suitable for decorative parts and hardware that require both strength and visual appeal.
CNC Machining Challenges and Solutions for Brass C486
Machining Challenges
Chip Formation Brass C486 tends to produce long, stringy chips during machining, hindering production and reducing efficiency.
Solution: Use chip breakers to manage chip formation, adjust feed rates, and use air or coolant for chip removal to prevent buildup.
Tool Wear Brass C486's strength can result in tool wear during high-speed machining, especially when performing complex cuts.
Solution: Use carbide or ceramic tools, which offer superior wear resistance and longer tool life, ensuring smooth machining.
Surface Finish Quality Achieving a high-quality surface finish can be difficult due to the alloy's hardness and tendency to form burrs.
Solution: Apply high-speed cutting with sharp tools and adequate lubrication to ensure a smoother surface and reduce the formation of burrs.
Work Hardening Brass C486 may experience work hardening when machining at high speeds or pressures.
Solution: Use moderate cutting speeds, sharp tools, and ample coolant to prevent 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 better cutting performance. |
Geometry | Positive rake, sharp edges | Improves chip flow and ensures smooth surface finishes. |
Cutting Speed | 150–250 m/min | Reduces heat generation and prevents material deformation. |
Feed Rate | 0.10–0.20 mm/rev | Ensures smooth cutting and minimizes burr formation. |
Coolant | Flood coolant or air blast | Reduces heat and enhances surface finish. |
Brass C486 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 C486
Machining Process | Function and Benefit for Brass C486 |
|---|---|
Ideal for high-speed, precision machining of components like connectors and bushings in marine and industrial applications. | |
Suitable for creating slots, grooves, and complex shapes in components like valves and fittings, widely used in plumbing and industrial sectors. | |
Used for turning cylindrical parts such as bushings, gears, and mechanical components in automotive and industrial machinery. | |
Ideal for creating precise holes for fasteners and mechanical parts, especially in the automotive and electrical industries. | |
Ensures precision internal machining for parts like bearings and bushings, commonly used in industrial and automotive systems. | |
Provides smooth finishes for parts exposed to wear and tear, such as gears and shafts, common in aerospace and automotive applications. | |
Ideal for producing complex, multi-featured parts in aerospace, marine, and industrial industries. | |
Provides ultra-tight tolerances for high-performance components used in medical devices, aerospace, and automotive applications. | |
Used for creating intricate features and fine details in parts such as connectors and switches in automotive and industrial applications. |
Surface Treatment for Brass C486 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 C486
Aerospace Industry: Used for manufacturing components like connectors, bushings, and fittings subjected to high stresses and harsh conditions.
Electrical & Power: Ideal for electrical components that require high conductivity and durability, such as terminals and connectors.
Automotive Industry: Commonly used in automotive connectors, bushings, and fittings for their strength and corrosion resistance.
Marine Industry: Used in marine hardware and shipbuilding, where resistance to seawater corrosion is essential.
FAQs
How does Brass C486 compare to other brass alloys regarding corrosion resistance?
What are the best surface treatments for Brass C486 to enhance its performance?
Can Brass C486 be used in high-temperature environments?
How does Brass C486 perform in marine applications?
What industries commonly use Brass C486 for CNC machining?
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