Brass CNC Machining

Why Choose Brass Machining

Best-in-Class Machinability

C360 free-cutting brass is the benchmark material for machinability — it machines faster, with lower cutting forces and better chip formation than any other metal. For high-volume threaded parts, brass reduces cycle time and tool wear significantly compared to steel.
Natural Corrosion Resistance

Brass resists oxidation and corrosion in freshwater, many chemicals, and atmospheric environments without surface coatings. The copper-zinc alloy naturally forms a protective patina over time.
Excellent Thread Quality

Brass produces clean, sharp thread profiles without the tearing or built-up edge seen with stainless steel. Ideal for fine-pitch threads and precision connectors where thread quality is critical.
Electrical and Thermal Conductivity

Good conductivity (approximately 28% IACS for C360) makes brass suitable for electrical terminals, connectors, and bus bars. Better thermal conductivity than steel for heat exchanger components.
Plating Compatibility

Brass provides excellent adhesion for electroplating — nickel, chrome, gold, and silver plating are all commonly applied over brass for decorative and functional purposes.

Common Brass Grades

C360 (Free-Cutting Brass)

The most machinable metal — 3% lead addition produces short, clean chips and eliminates built-up edge. Standard for screws, valves, fittings, and connectors produced in high volumes. Not recommended for potable water in some jurisdictions due to lead content.

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C260

Excellent ductility and formability — used for cold-formed and deep-drawn components, sheet metal work, and applications requiring significant plastic deformation without cracking.

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C280

Higher zinc content (40%) gives greater strength than C260 at lower cost. Used for structural shapes, condenser plates, and architectural components.

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Our Machining Capability

Brass is one of our highest-volume machining materials. C360 are machined on dedicated CNC lathes and milling centers optimized for non-ferrous materials — faster feed rates, shorter cycle times, and lower per-part cost than steel. Tolerances held to ±0.01 mm. Thread quality is verified with go/no-go gauges on all threaded features. Electroplating (nickel, chrome, gold) is available as a standard post-processing option.
Limitations & Cost Considerations

Brass is softer than steel and stainless steel — not suitable for high-load structural applications or parts subject to significant abrasion without surface treatment. C360's lead content makes it non-compliant for potable water fittings in many jurisdictions (use C330 or C464 instead). Brass is also denser than aluminum, so it's not the material of choice where weight is a constraint.

FAQ

When should I choose brass over stainless steel for fittings?

When machinability and cost-per-part are the priorities, and corrosion requirements are moderate. Brass machines 3–5× faster than stainless steel, reducing per-part cost significantly on high-volume threaded fittings. For saltwater or chemical exposure, specify C464 naval brass or upgrade to 316L stainless depending on the severity of the environment.
What surface finishes work best on brass?

Brass accepts a wide range of finishes. Common options: electropolished (bright, clean appearance), nickel plating (corrosion protection and solderability), chrome plating (decorative hardness), gold plating (electrical contacts and connectors), and clear lacquer (preserves the natural brass appearance). Anodizing does not apply to brass.
What tolerances can you hold on brass parts?

±0.01mm as standard. Brass machines cleanly with good dimensional stability, so tight tolerances are achievable without special measures in most geometries.