Brass C726
Introduction to Brass C726
Brass C726, also known as Naval Brass, is a high-performance copper-zinc alloy containing tin and lead, designed to provide superior corrosion resistance, especially in marine environments. This alloy is specifically formulated to resist the harsh conditions found in seawater, making it an ideal choice for applications exposed to corrosive elements. Compared to other brass alloys, Brass C726 provides enhanced durability, especially for applications requiring both strength and resistance to seawater corrosion. For precision machining, Brass C726 is well-suited due to its high machinability and resistance to corrosion.
Brass C726 is commonly used in CNC machined parts such as marine hardware, fittings, valves, and bushings. Its excellent corrosion resistance and mechanical properties make it ideal for marine, oil, and gas applications and industries requiring reliable and durable parts.
Chemical, Physical, and Mechanical Properties of Brass C726
Chemical Composition (Typical)
Element | Composition Range (wt.%) | Key Role |
|---|---|---|
Copper (Cu) | 59.0–63.0% | Provides strength, conductivity, and corrosion resistance |
Zinc (Zn) | 36.0–40.0% | Enhances strength and material hardness |
Tin (Sn) | 1.5–3.0% | Improves corrosion resistance, particularly in seawater |
Lead (Pb) | ≤1.5% | Improves machinability and reduces friction during machining |
Iron (Fe) | ≤0.5% | Minimal impact on properties |
Physical Properties
Property | Value (Typical) | Test Standard/Condition |
|---|---|---|
Density | 8.6 g/cm³ | ASTM B311 |
Melting Point | 900–950°C | ASTM E29 |
Thermal Conductivity | 90 W/m·K at 20°C | ASTM E1952 |
Electrical Conductivity | 10% IACS at 20°C | ASTM B193 |
Coefficient of Expansion | 20 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 | 420–490 MPa | ASTM E8/E8M |
Yield Strength (0.2%) | 290–370 MPa | ASTM E8/E8M |
Elongation | 25–35% | ASTM E8/E8M |
Hardness | 60–85 HB | ASTM E10 |
Fatigue Strength | ~200 MPa | ASTM E466 |
Impact Resistance | Good | ASTM E23 |
Key Characteristics of Brass C726
Excellent Corrosion Resistance
Brass C726 is specifically designed to provide superior corrosion resistance in seawater and marine environments, making it ideal for components exposed to these harsh conditions.
Good Strength and Durability
With a good balance of strength and ductility, Brass C726 is well-suited for high-performance applications where mechanical stress is present, such as marine hardware and industrial parts.
Improved Machinability
Brass C726 offers excellent machinability, which makes it easy to process in high-speed CNC machining operations. Adding lead enhances its cutting properties, reducing tool wear and improving productivity.
High Wear Resistance
This alloy is particularly wear-resistant, making it suitable for parts that undergo frequent movement or friction, such as bushings, bearings, and other mechanical components.
Aesthetic Appeal
Brass C726 has a gold-like appearance, which gives it an attractive visual appeal. This aesthetic and its excellent corrosion resistance make it a popular choice for decorative and functional marine hardware.
CNC Machining Challenges and Solutions for Brass C726
Machining Challenges
Chip Formation Brass C726 produces short chips, which can benefit machining speed but may accumulate if not properly managed.
Solution: Use chip breakers, adjust feed rates, and employ adequate coolant to clear chips and prevent blockages.
Tool Wear While Brass C726 is known for its machinability, heavy-duty cutting can still lead to tool wear due to its hardness.
Solution: Use carbide or ceramic tools, which provide excellent wear resistance, to extend tool life and improve machining efficiency.
Surface Finish Quality Achieving a high-quality surface finish can be difficult due to the alloy's tendency to form burrs during machining.
Solution: Employ sharp tools, high-speed cutting techniques, and proper lubrication to achieve smooth finishes.
Work Hardening Brass C726 may experience work hardening if cutting speeds are too high or if dull tools are used.
Solution: Use moderate cutting speeds and sharp tools and ensure proper coolant application to reduce work hardening and preserve material integrity.
Optimized Machining Strategies
Parameter | Recommendation | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
Tool Material | Carbide or ceramic tools | These materials provide superior wear resistance and extended tool life. |
Geometry | Positive rake, sharp edges | Improves chip flow and ensures smoother 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 C726 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 C726
Machining Process | Function and Benefit for Brass C726 |
|---|---|
Ideal for high-speed, precision machining of components like marine connectors and fittings, ensuring high durability. | |
Suitable for creating slots, grooves, and complex shapes in marine parts and industrial components. | |
Used for turning cylindrical parts such as bushings, gears, and mechanical components in marine and industrial systems. | |
Ideal for creating precise holes for fasteners and mechanical parts in marine and industrial applications. | |
Ensures precision internal machining for parts such as bearings and bushings, used in marine systems. | |
Provides smooth finishes for parts exposed to wear and tear, such as gears and shafts in marine applications. | |
Ideal for producing complex, multi-featured parts for aerospace, marine, and industrial sectors. | |
Provides ultra-tight tolerances for high-performance components in industries like aerospace and medical devices. | |
Used for creating intricate features and fine details in parts such as connectors and switches for marine and industrial applications. |
Surface Treatment for Brass C726 CNC Parts
Electroplating: Enhances corrosion resistance and provides a shiny finish for marine connectors and other components.
Polishing: Achieves a high-gloss finish for decorative marine parts and improves functionality.
Brushing: Creates a satin or matte finish for components exposed to frequent handling in marine and industrial environments.
PVD Coating: Adds a durable coating that increases wear resistance and extends the life of marine components.
Passivation: Improves corrosion resistance, especially for components exposed to aggressive 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, ideal for mechanical applications.
Chrome Plating: Provides a glossy, durable coating that resists corrosion and enhances the appearance of components.
Industry Applications of Brass C726
Aerospace Industry: Used for manufacturing high-strength components such as connectors and fittings subjected to harsh conditions.
Electrical & Power: Ideal for electrical components requiring high conductivity and durability, including terminals and connectors.
Automotive Industry: Commonly used in automotive applications such as connectors, bushings, and fittings.
Marine Industry: Highly suitable for marine hardware and components exposed to seawater and other corrosive elements.
FAQs
How does Brass C726 compare to other alloys in terms of corrosion resistance?
What are the best surface treatments for Brass C726 to enhance performance?
Can Brass C726 be used in high-temperature applications?
How does Brass C726 perform in marine environments compared to other brass alloys?
What industries most commonly use Brass C726 for CNC machining?
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