Brass

Useful Information

Brass, a versatile alloy of copper and zinc, holds a significant role in various industrial applications. Holme Dodsworth offers a diverse range of brass alloys, each tailored to meet specific industry demands.

Essentially an alloy of copper and zinc, the brasses are the most commonly used of all the copper based alloys and are available in a huge range of grades, forms and sizes. Small additions of other elements are used to enhance certain material properties. Elements such as lead, tin, manganese, aluminium, and silicon enhance the machinability, corrosion resistance or strength of individual grades while properties such as ductility and cold formability can be improved by lowering the alloying elements or by decreasing the zinc content. This wide variety of properties ensure that the brasses can be utilised in automotive, aerospace, marine, naval, chemical, electrical, and plumbing industries.

Our brass product range is vast, not just by grade but also by form and size range. Typical grades stocked include free machining brass, naval brass, high-tensile brass, riveting brass, stamping brass, low-lead brass, and dezincification-resistant brass. Further to this, if you need a non-standard brass or size, we can also source for you from our global supply chain.

Holme Dodsworth Brass is exceptional in all areas, quality, lead time and price.  We offer the widest range of alloys, sizes and forms in the marketplace and are able to supply directly from a group stock which exceeds all of our competitors.

Alternatively, if we do not have your desired brass product ex-stock we are able to procure bespoke material in the shortest lead times the industry can offer.

The following section details our huge stock of alloys and sizes which we are confident is the most comprehensive in the UK. Please do not hesitate to contact our sales team who are waiting to be of assistance.

Common Grades:

  • CW508L (CZ108): This alpha brass combines excellent ductility with high corrosion resistance, making it suitable for decorative applications, switch components, fasteners, and components exposed to harsh environments.
  • CW614N (CZ121): Known for its machinability, CW614N is often chosen for intricate parts in engineering, electronics and plumbing. Its balance of formability and corrosion resistance also contributes to its popularity.
  • CW712R (CZ112): is a specific grade of brass, also known as Naval Brass, which is widely recognized for its excellent corrosion resistance, particularly in marine environments. Composed mainly of copper, zinc, and a small amount of tin, CZ112 offers a unique set of properties that make it suitable for various applications, especially those exposed to seawater.
  • CW721R (CZ114): often know as Manganese Bronze or High Tensile brass. Known for its versatility , this alloy has high strength and good corrosion resistance and is suitable for fittings , valves and marine components.

A Beacon of Adaptability:

In the dynamic realm of industry, where adaptability is paramount, brass shines. This alloy, with its ability to seamlessly blend strength, corrosion resistance, and malleability, has become a cornerstone in the evolution of manufacturing processes. As industries pivot to meet new challenges, brass emerges as a reliable material, adapting to the ever-changing demands of technology, design, and functionality.

Versatility Unleashed:

The versatility of brass is a hallmark. From the intricate components of electronic devices to the robust fittings in plumbing systems, brass finds its way into an array of applications. Its golden hue, coupled with an intrinsic resistance to corrosion, not only ensures the longevity of components but also adds an aesthetic touch, making it a preferred choice in architectural and design endeavors.

Catalyzing Technological Progress:

As technology advances, brass plays a pivotal role in catalyzing progress. Its use in electrical components, where conductivity is non-negotiable, showcases its commitment to driving innovations in electronics. The alloy's role in heat exchangers and industrial machinery underscores its contribution to enhancing efficiency in energy-intensive processes.

A Bellwether of Economic Stability:

Beyond its physical properties, brass, like copper is a barometer of economic stability. Its demand fluctuates with the pulse of industries, reflecting not only technological trends but also the broader economic landscape. A surge in the use of brass often signals growth and stability, making it a key indicator of the health of manufacturing and, by extension, the broader economy.

In this landscape of continual change, Holme Dodsworth stands as top tier supplier of brass alloys, ready to supply the materials that drive innovation and resilience. Whether it's the intricacies of plumbing, the precision of electronics, or the robustness of industrial machinery, brass usage is a testament to its enduring impact on the fabric of industry and business.