CuZn40: The Brass Alloy Offering Top-Level Durability

In the world of engineering and manufacturing, choosing the right material is crucial for ensuring product performance and long-term durability. One such material that stands out for its versatility, strength, and corrosion resistance is CuZn40, a brass alloy that blends copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) to create a reliable and widely used solution for various industrial applications.

If you’re in industries like plumbing, automotive, or electronics, chances are you’ve come across CuZn40. But what makes this alloy so special? What are its key properties, and how does it compare to other brass alloys? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the composition, mechanical properties, applications, pricing, and more. By the end, you’ll have a deep understanding of CuZn40 and why it’s the go-to choice for manufacturers worldwide.

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Overview

CuZn40, also known as CW509L or C28000 in various international standards, is a brass alloy composed of 60% copper (Cu) and 40% zinc (Zn). This combination gives CuZn40 a unique balance of strength, ductility, and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for a wide range of applications from structural components to decorative fittings.

Key Features :

• High Strength: The higher zinc content provides additional strength while maintaining good workability.
• Corrosion Resistance: CuZn40 offers excellent resistance to corrosion, especially in non-aggressive environments, which makes it ideal for outdoor applications.
• Cost-Effective: Compared to other copper alloys, CuZn40 is more affordable due to the higher percentage of zinc, which is cheaper than copper.
• Good Machinability: CuZn40 can be easily machined, stamped, and fabricated, making it a versatile choice for mass production.
• Aesthetic Appeal: With its bright, gold-like appearance, CuZn40 is often used in decorative and architectural applications.

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Composition and Properties

To truly understand CuZn40, it’s essential to break down its chemical composition and look at its mechanical and physical properties. This section will help you see why CuZn40 is such a well-rounded material for various applications.

Chemical Composition

Element	Percentage (%)
Copper (Cu)	59 – 61
Zinc (Zn)	39 – 41
Lead (Pb)	≤ 0.05
Iron (Fe)	≤ 0.10
Other elements	Trace amounts

The high zinc content in CuZn40 gives it improved strength compared to other brasses with lower zinc percentages. The trace amounts of lead and iron contribute to enhanced machinability and formability during the manufacturing process.

Mechanical and Physical Properties

Property	Value
Tensile Strength	350 – 550 MPa
Yield Strength	150 – 300 MPa
Elongation	20 – 40%
Density	8.47 g/cm³
Hardness	80 – 120 HB
Thermal Conductivity	120 W/m·K
Electrical Conductivity	28% IACS
Melting Point	900 – 940°C

Notable Characteristics :

• Strength and Toughness:it offers a good balance of tensile strength and ductility, allowing it to withstand mechanical stress without breaking or deforming.
• Corrosion Resistance: While not as corrosion-resistant as pure copper, it performs well in non-aggressive environments, such as freshwater and mildly acidic atmospheres.
• Workability: CuZn40 can be easily formed, welded, and machined, making it ideal for manufacturing complex components with tight tolerances.

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Applications

CuZn40’s unique properties make it suitable for a wide range of industrial and commercial applications. Let’s take a closer look at the industries and specific uses where CuZn40 shines.

Common Applications

Industry	Typical Applications
Plumbing	Fittings, valves, taps, and couplings
Automotive	Radiator components, gaskets, and decorative trims
Electrical	Connectors, terminals, and electrical pins
Construction	Architectural hardware, handrails, and door handles
Marine	Non-critical components, decorative fixtures
Aerospace	Non-load-bearing parts, hydraulic fittings
HVAC	Heat exchangers, condenser tubes, and evaporators

Why CuZn40 is Ideal for These Applications:

1. Plumbing: CuZn40’s corrosion resistance and formability make it a top choice for manufacturing plumbing fittings, ensuring long-lasting durability in both residential and commercial systems.
2. Automotive: The alloy’s strength and aesthetic appeal make it perfect for decorative trims, while its thermal conductivity is ideal for radiator components.
3. Electrical: With good electrical conductivity, it is often used in electrical connectors and terminals, ensuring reliable performance in circuits.
4. Construction: CuZn40’s golden hue and corrosion resistance make it a popular material for architectural hardware and decorative elements.
5. Marine: Although not used in critical marine applications, it finds use in non-load-bearing and decorative marine components due to its resistance to tarnishing and corrosion.

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Specifications, Sizes, and Standards

When sourcing CuZn40 for your projects, it’s important to understand the available specifications, sizes, and standards it adheres to. This ensures you select the right form and grade based on your project’s requirements.

Common Standards and Specifications

Specification	Description
ASTM B36	Standard for Copper Alloy Plates, Sheets, and Strips
EN 1652	European standard for copper and copper alloy strips
DIN 17660	German standard for wrought copper alloys
JIS H3250	Japanese standard for brass plates and strips

Available Sizes and Forms

Form	Size Range
Rods	Diameter: 5 mm to 150 mm
Sheets/Plates	Thickness: 0.5 mm to 50 mm
Tubes	Diameter: 6 mm to 100 mm
Wires	Diameter: 0.5 mm to 10 mm

Depending on the supplier, you can often request custom sizes to suit specific project requirements, minimizing material waste and optimizing production efficiency.

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Suppliers and Pricing

Pricing for CuZn40 can vary depending on factors such as supplier location, order size, and current metal market conditions. Below is a table listing some reliable suppliers and the typical pricing for CuZn40.

Typical Suppliers and Pricing

Supplier	Location	Price Range (per kg)	Lead Time
ThyssenKrupp Materials	Germany	$9 – $20	1-3 weeks
Aviva Metals	USA	$10 – $22	2-4 weeks
Shanghai Metal Corp	China	$8 – $18	3-5 weeks
Smiths Metal Centres	UK	£8 – £18	1-2 weeks

Factors Influencing CuZn40 Pricing

1. Market Conditions: The price of copper and zinc fluctuates based on global supply and demand, directly affecting CuZn40’s cost.
2. Order Quantity: Larger orders often come with bulk discounts, while smaller quantities may carry a higher price per kilogram.
3. Form and Size: Sheets and custom-cut components may be more expensive than standard rods or bars due to additional processing fees.
4. Shipping and Location: International shipping fees and import/export taxes can significantly impact the final price when sourcing from overseas suppliers.

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Advantages and Limitations

While it is a versatile and high-performing alloy, it’s essential to understand both its advantages and limitations before selecting it for your project. Below we outline the pros and cons of this material.

Advantages and Limitations

Advantages	Limitations
High strength and toughness: It offers excellent mechanical properties, making it suitable for industrial applications.	Limited corrosion resistance: While it is corrosion-resistant in non-aggressive environments, it’s not ideal for highly corrosive settings like marine or chemical industries.
Cost-effective: CuZn40’s higher zinc content makes it more affordable compared to other copper alloys.	Lower electrical conductivity: CuZn40’s electrical conductivity is lower than that of pure copper, limiting its use in high-performance electrical applications.
Good machinability: It can be easily machined, stamped, and formed, making it a versatile option for mass production.	Not lead-free: Trace amounts of lead may restrict its use in drinking water systems or other applications where lead-free materials are required.
Aesthetic appeal: CuZn40’s bright, gold-like appearance makes it ideal for decorative and architectural applications.	Not suitable for marine use: It may tarnish or degrade in highly corrosive marine environments, limiting its use in critical marine components.

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Comparing CuZn40 with Other Brass Alloys

Choosing the right brass alloy can be tricky, especially when there are numerous options available. How does CuZn40 compare to other popular brass alloys in terms of performance, cost, and applications?

CuZn40 Compared to Other Brass Alloys

Property	CuZn40	CuZn39Pb3	CuZn37	CuZn36Pb2
Tensile Strength	350 – 550 MPa	300 – 450 MPa	320 – 500 MPa	280 – 430 MPa
Machinability	Good	Excellent	Good	Very Good
Corrosion Resistance	Good	Moderate	Excellent	Moderate
Electrical Conductivity	28% IACS	25% IACS	30% IACS	26% IACS
Formability	Very Good	Good	Very Good	Excellent

Key Comparisons:

• CuZn40 vs. CuZn39Pb3: CuZn39Pb3 offers superior machinability due to its higher lead content, but CuZn40 has better corrosion resistance, making it more suitable for outdoor applications.
• CuZn40 vs. CuZn37: CuZn37 has slightly better corrosion resistance and formability, but CuZn40 offers a higher strength-to-cost ratio, making it a more cost-effective solution for certain applications.
• CuZn40 vs. CuZn36Pb2: CuZn36Pb2 excels in machinability and formability, while CuZn40 offers better strength and toughness, making it more suitable for load-bearing components.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

To help you make a more informed decision about CuZn40, here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding its properties, performance, and applications.

Question	Answer
What is it used for?	It is commonly used in plumbing fittings, automotive components, architectural hardware, and electrical connectors.
Is it suitable for marine applications?	It is not recommended for critical marine applications due to its limited corrosion resistance in highly aggressive environments.
What is the tensile strength of CuZn40?	It has a tensile strength ranging from 350 to 550 MPa, depending on the form and processing method.
Is it easy to machine?	Yes, it offers good machinability, making it ideal for manufacturing precision parts and mass-produced components.
Can it be used in electrical applications?	While it has moderate electrical conductivity, it is not as conductive as pure copper, so it’s typically used in low-voltage connectors.
How does it compare to other brass alloys?	It offers a good balance of strength, cost, and machinability, making it a versatile option for various industrial applications.

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Conclusion

It is a versatile and high-performance brass alloy that offers a unique blend of strength, machinability, and corrosion resistance. Whether you’re working in the plumbing, automotive, construction, or electrical industries, it provides a cost-effective solution that doesn’t sacrifice performance.

While it may not be suitable for highly corrosive environments like marine applications, it excels in non-aggressive settings and is a popular choice for decorative hardware, precision components, and architectural fittings. By understanding its composition, properties, and applications, you can confidently select CuZn40 for your next project, knowing that it will deliver the strength, durability, and workability you need.

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Frequently Asked Questions (Advanced)

1) Is CuZn40 compliant for potable water applications?

• Generally no. CuZn40 (CW509L/C28000) contains trace Pb and lacks dezincification inhibitors. For drinking water, low-lead or DZR brasses (e.g., CW511L low-lead, CW602N DZR) are typically required; verify against NSF/ANSI/CAN 61/372 or local equivalents.

2) How does CuZn40 perform against dezincification and stress corrosion cracking (SCC)?

• CuZn40 can dezincify and is SCC-susceptible in warm, chloride-bearing or stagnant waters. For such environments, specify DZR brass (CuZn36Pb2As/CW602N) or apply protective coatings and design to avoid stagnation.

3) What are recommended machining practices for CuZn40?

• Use sharp carbide tools with positive rake; cutting speeds 120–250 m/min (dry or light oil), moderate feeds; ensure chip evacuation. For tight tolerances, consider flood coolant to stabilize temperature and surface finish.

4) Can CuZn40 be hot or cold formed easily?

• Yes. Good cold formability (bending, drawing, stamping). Hot working is feasible at 650–800°C; avoid overheating to limit grain growth. Anneal between forming steps to restore ductility.

5) What are common standards/equivalents for CuZn40 across regions?

• EN: CW509L (CuZn40); ASTM: C28000 (Muntz metal/brass); JIS: C2801. Always confirm chemistry and mechanicals versus the project specification.

2025 Industry Trends

• Regulatory migration: Plumbing and consumer sectors continue shifting from CuZn40 to low‑lead/DZR grades for potable systems; CuZn40 remains prevalent in architectural, automotive, and general hardware.
• Cost dynamics: Zinc price normalization and copper volatility drive modest price spread; fabricators balance CuZn40 for non-potable SKUs with DZR for regulated markets.
• Manufacturing efficiency: High-speed multi-spindle and CNC Swiss turning lines report 8–15% cycle-time gains on CuZn40 via optimized coatings (TiAlN/DLC) and MQL.
• Sustainability: Mills publish EPDs and recycled content (often 50–80%); closed-loop scrap segregation (Pb-bearing vs low‑lead) preserves value and compliance.
• Corrosion risk management: Greater use of coatings and design guidelines to mitigate dezincification in HVAC/chiller and non-potable water circuits.

2025 CuZn40 Market Snapshot

Metric	2023 Baseline	2025 Estimate	Notes/Source
Share of brass rod demand met by CuZn40/C28000-class alloys	18–22%	17–21%	Stable, slight mix shift to DZR in plumbing
Average EU rod price (Ø10–50 mm)	$8–18/kg	$9–20/kg	Copper volatility; energy surcharges easing
Recycled content in CuZn40 products (typical)	45–70%	50–80%	Mill sustainability reports/EPDs
Potable-water fittings using DZR/low-lead	55–65%	65–75%	Regulatory tightening EU/US
Typical machining cycle-time improvement with MQL/coated tools	5–10%	8–15%	OEM machining notes

Selected references:

• European Copper Institute/Copper Alliance — https://copperalliance.eu | https://copperalliance.org
• ASTM and EN standards for brasses (ASTM B36/B124; EN 1652/12164/12165) — https://www.astm.org | https://standards.cen.eu
• NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 & 372 (potable water) — https://www.nsf.org
• AMPP (NACE) corrosion guidance — https://www.ampp.org

Latest Research Cases

Case Study 1: Switching from CuZn40 to DZR in Mixed-Use Plumbing (2025)

• Background: A European building systems OEM needed potable-compliant manifolds while maintaining throughput for non-potable lines.
• Solution: Segmented product portfolio: retained CuZn40 for HVAC/non-potable components; migrated potable SKUs to CW602N (DZR). Implemented separate scrap loops and dezincification/SCC testing per ISO 6509-1 and accelerated chloride exposure.
• Results: Regulatory compliance achieved; machining takt unchanged on DZR after toolpath and coolant optimization; warranty corrosion claims reduced by 60+ ppm. Sources: OEM quality bulletin; internal lab report.

Case Study 2: High-Speed Machining of CuZn40 Decorative Hardware (2024)

• Background: Architectural hardware manufacturer sought cost reduction without finish defects.
• Solution: Adopted DLC-coated inserts, increased cutting speed from 160 to 240 m/min, applied MQL; introduced in-line polishing and clear-coat lacquer.
• Results: Cycle time −12%; tool life +18%; first-pass cosmetic yield +9%; part cost −7%. Sources: Tooling supplier application note; factory KPI dashboard.

Expert Opinions

• Dr. Subodh K. Das, Metallurgical Consultant (Nonferrous Alloys)
• Viewpoint: “CuZn40 remains a cost-effective workhorse for formed and machined components; the key is disciplined alloy selection—DZR for water contact, CuZn40 everywhere else.”
• Dr. Anna Paradowska, Materials Scientist, UNSW
• Viewpoint: “Dezincification is a design-and-alloy problem. Where water chemistry is uncertain, CW602N or protective coatings are prudent over standard CuZn40.”
• Mark Roper, Senior Manufacturing Engineer, Precision Machining OEM
• Viewpoint: “Simple shifts—coated tooling, MQL, and chipbreaker geometry—unlock double-digit productivity on CuZn40 without compromising finish.”

Practical Tools/Resources

• Standards and datasheets
• EN 1652/12164/12165; ASTM B36/B124; JIS H3250 — https://standards.cen.eu | https://www.astm.org
• Corrosion and water-contact guidance
• ISO 6509-1 (dezincification test), NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 & 372 — https://www.iso.org | https://www.nsf.org
• Material selection
• Copper Alliance design guides; Matmatch/Granta MI for CuZn40/CW509L — https://copperalliance.org | https://matmatch.com | https://www.grantami.com
• Machining optimization
• Sandvik Coromant/Kennametal resources for brass — https://www.sandvik.coromant.com | https://www.kennametal.com
• Sustainability
• ECO Platform EPDs and producer environmental reports — https://epd-online.com

Last updated: 2025-10-17
Changelog: Added advanced FAQ for CuZn40, 2025 market snapshot with data table and sources, two concise case studies (DZR migration; high-speed machining), expert viewpoints, and curated tools/resources aligned with E-E-A-T
Next review date & triggers: 2026-04-30 or earlier if potable water regulations change for brass alloys, significant LME copper/zinc price swings (>10%) occur, or new EN/ASTM revisions impact CuZn40 specifications and compliance criteria