Brass is a mixture of copper and zinc with adjustable proportions and high machinability. Therefore, in CNC machining, brass is one of the easiest materials to machine in the most common CNC turning or milling operations. This article describes the brass grade, the advantages of brass CNC machining, applications and brass machining tips.Hopefully, this will help you make better use of brass CNC machining services for your next project.


What is Brass?
Brass is a versatile and widely used metal alloy composed primarily of copper and zinc. The composition of brass is typically around 67% copper and 33% zinc, although these ratios can vary. By altering these proportions, manufacturers can achieve different mechanical and physical properties that suit specific requirements. Brass may also contain small amounts of other elements such as lead, tin, or nickel to enhance its characteristics, such as improving its machinability, corrosion resistance, or color.
What is CNC machining Brass?
Brass is renowned for its workability and malleability, making it an ideal material for CNC machining, which we’ll explore further in the next section.CNC machining is a precise, computer-controlled manufacturing process that is widely used to shape and fabricate brass components. This process utilizes computer numerical control (CNC) technology to automate the operation of machine tools, allowing for the production of complex and intricate brass parts with high accuracy and consistency.
In CNC machining, pre-programmed software controls the movement of the machine, allowing it to cut, drill, or mill brass material to precise specifications. This method is especially beneficial for brass, which has inherent machinability and ductility and can be easily molded without compromising its structural integrity.
Properties of Brass
- Corrosion Resistance
Brass offers excellent corrosion resistance, particularly in environments with water exposure. Its ability to resist tarnishing makes it ideal for marine applications and plumbing fixtures. This resistance comes from its composition, primarily the presence of copper and zinc, which helps to form a protective layer over time.
- Electrical and Thermal Conductivity
As a metal, brass exhibits strong electrical and thermal conductivity. Though it doesn’t conduct electricity as well as pure copper, it’s a popular choice for low-voltage connectors and terminals due to its durability and conductive properties.
- Malleability
Brass is highly malleable, meaning it can be easily shaped and formed without breaking. This makes it suitable for intricate designs in architectural elements and various tools.
- Strength and Hardness
Despite its malleability, brass remains a strong and durable material. By altering the proportions of copper and zinc, manufacturers can achieve a wide range of strength and hardness levels.
- Highly Machinable
One of brass’s most appealing properties is its machinability. It is easy to cut, shape, and join using standard machine tools, making it a preferred material for manufacturing precision components.
- Aesthetic Appeal
Its golden appearance makes it popular in decorative items and jewelry, as well as in hardware such as doorknobs and light fixtures, where beauty and functionality combine.


Commonly used brass grades
Brass C360
Brass C360 is most commonly used and is also known as Free Cutting Brass. Due to the relatively high lead content in the alloy. It is highly machinable and is ideal for precision parts such as gears, screws and valve fittings.
Brass C260
Brass C260 is a zinc alloy formulation containing approximately 30% zinc and less than 1% lead and iron. Due to the history of this copper’s use in ammunition cartridges, it is sometimes referred to as ammunition cartridge brass. Other common applications include rivets, hinges and radiator cores.
Brass C230
Brass C230, or Red Brass, is valued for its corrosion resistance and malleability. This makes it ideal for applications in plumbing fixtures and decorative items.
Brass C330
Brass C330, a lead-free brass, offers good weldability and formability. It is often used in architectural applications and heat exchangers due to its robust properties.
Brass C220
Brass C220, also known as Commercial Bronze, is prized for its high strength and workability. It is frequently employed in jewelry and artistic applications.
Here is the table showcasing the mechanical properties of different brass types:
Brass Type | Tensile Strength (MPa) | Yield Strength (MPa) | Shear Modulus (GPa) | Elongation at Break (%) | Hardness (Brinell) | Density (g/cm³) | Maximum Temp (°C) |
Brass C360 | 360 | 275 | 37 | 50 | 115 | 8.50 | 510 |
Brass C260 | 420 | 275 | 42 | 65 | 110 | 8.47 | 480 |
Brass C230 | 440 | 215 | 42 | 50 | 100 | 8.40 | 470 |
Brass C330 | 380 | 285 | 38 | 35 | 100 | 8.55 | 450 |
Brass C220 | 315 | 170 | 42 | 45 | 90 | 8.70 | 500 |
Advantages and Drawbacks Of CNC Brass Machining
Advantages of CNC Machining Brass
- Extreme precision and speed:Brass is highly machinable and can be cut and shaped with extreme precision and speed.
- Reduced Costs: CNC machining brass reduces production time and manufacturing costs.
- Tight tolerances:Brass has excellent dimensional stability and maintains its shape under pressure.
- Durability:Brass has a natural resistance to corrosion, ensuring durability in harsh environments.
- Recyclability:Brass is 100% recyclable without losing its properties, making it a sustainable choice for manufacturers looking to reduce their environmental impact.
Drawbacks Of CNC Machining Brass
- High material costs:Brass tends to be more expensive than other common metals such as aluminum or steel. The higher cost can be a problem for projects with tight budgets, especially those requiring high volume production.
- Work hardening:Brass undergoes work hardening during machining, which can make subsequent cutting operations more difficult. When this occurs, the material becomes harder and less ductile as a result of the stresses generated by machining, which can lead to tool wear or breakage.
- Surface Sensitivity:Due to the soft nature of brass, it is susceptible to surface scratches and dents during handling and machining.
- Thermal Expansion:Brass has a relatively high coefficient of thermal expansion, which means it expands significantly when heated. This can cause dimensional errors during machining.
Applications of CNC machining in Brass


- Automotive Terminals
Brass is favored in automotive terminals due to its excellent electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance.
- Handles and Hinges
The strength and corrosion resistance of brass make it perfect for handles and hinges in homes, offices, and industrial settings.
- Screws and Rivets
In manufacturing, screws and rivets made from brass offer both strength and corrosion resistance, making them reliable for fastening components in a variety of applications, from electronics to construction.
- Valve Stems
Brass valve stems are commonly used in plumbing and fluid systems because of their resistance to corrosion and high durability under pressure. They ensure a secure and reliable fit in faucets, pumps, and other liquid management systems.
- Plumbing Components
For plumbing components, brass is highly favored due to its resistance to corrosion and ability to withstand both hot and cold water systems. It is commonly used in fittings, pipes, and fixtures for its durability and performance.
- Pumps and Valves
Brass’ corrosion resistance and longevity make it ideal for managing fluids in demanding environments such as HVAC systems, water management and gas flow control.
Tips for CNC Machining Brass


- Use Sharp Tools
When machining brass, it is critical to use sharp tools to prevent burrs and achieve precise cuts. Dull tools can lead to inaccuracies and rough surface finishes, which are undesirable in CNC operations.
- Adjust Cutting Speed
Brass is a soft material, allowing for high-speed machining. By selecting the appropriate cutting speed, operators can maximize efficiency and improve surface quality, reducing the need for additional finishing work.
- Minimize Cooling Fluids
While cooling fluids are typically required in CNC machining, brass has lower friction, which means less cooling is needed. Excessive lubrication can sometimes interfere with the process, so apply fluids sparingly.
- Use Carbide Tools
To maintain the longevity of tools and ensure consistent performance, using carbide tools is recommended. They offer superior resistance to wear and maintain sharpness longer than standard steel tools, making them ideal for brass machining.
- Optimize Feed Rate
Setting the correct feed rate is crucial to avoid excessive material removal or tool wear. Adjusting it based on the thickness and geometry of the brass part helps in achieving precision without damaging the material.
Conclusion
Brass CNC machining services offer unparalleled advantages across various industries due to brass’s machinability, durability, and corrosion resistance. From automotive components to medical parts, brass’s versatility ensures high-quality results in precision manufacturing.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q:What is the best brass for CNC machining?
A: The best brass for CNC machining is typically C360 brass. Known for its excellent machinability, C360 brass allows for fast, precise cutting with minimal tool wear. It also offers good corrosion resistance and strength, making it suitable for a variety of applications.
Q: What is the machinability of brass?
A: Brass is one of the most machinable metals, with C360 brass having a machinability rating of 100%, which is considered the industry standard.
Q: Is brass hard to mill?
A:No, brass is not hard to mill. It is considered a relatively easy material to machine. Due to its low friction and soft nature, brass can be milled quickly and with high precision, which reduces wear on the tools and enhances productivity.
Q: What Are the Common Challenges Encountered When Machining Brass?
A: Some common challenges include chip control, where the material can produce stringy chips, and burr formation if tools are not sharp enough. Overheating is another issue, but it can be minimized by controlling cutting speeds and using minimal coolant.
Q: How does the cost of brass machining compare to other materials?
A: Brass machining is relatively cost-effective due to its high machinability, which reduces machining time and tool wear. Although brass is generally more expensive than aluminium, its faster machining time can offset the higher material cost, making it competitive with other metals.
Q: How to get a high quality brass machining parts?
A: To ensure high-quality brass machining parts, use sharp carbide tools, optimize the cutting speed, and adjust the feed rate appropriately. Minimizing cooling fluids and maintaining well-calibrated CNC machines are also key factors.