Brass is an alloy primarily composed of copper and zinc, and sometimes small amounts of other elements. It has been used in manufacturing for centuries, long before materials like aluminum became widely available. Brass stands out for its attractive gold-like appearance, excellent corrosion resistance, and ease of fabrication. This material has found a place in both everyday objects and specialized industrial applications, thanks to its combination of mechanical properties and machinability.

Both brass and copper are valued for their properties, but each suits different needs. Brass is harder and offers better corrosion resistance, making it suitable for mechanical parts and fittings. Copper, on the other hand, is more electrically conductive and is chosen for applications requiring optimal electrical or thermal conductivity. However, copper is softer and can be more difficult to machine, which may result in higher production costs.

Brass is easy to machine because of its relatively soft composition and the presence of elements like lead in certain grades. This allows for smooth cutting, low tool wear, and high speeds during CNC operations. Its chip formation is favorable, reducing the risk of built-up edge and enabling the production of complex shapes with precision.

Brass CNC machining is a good choice when you need parts that combine good mechanical strength, corrosion resistance, and a quality surface finish. It is ideal for components that require low friction, such as valves, or where appearance is important, such as decorative hardware. It is also cost-effective for medium- to high-volume production due to its machinability.

When it comes to CNC machining, C36000 brass, often called “free machining brass” or “free cutting brass,” is widely regarded as the best option. This grade is specifically formulated for machinability, containing a higher lead content that acts as an internal lubricant during cutting. Thanks to this composition, C36000 has a machinability rating of 100, which is the standard benchmark for other copper alloys.
C36000 brass allows for fast, precise machining, producing clean edges and smooth surfaces with less tool wear and lower cutting forces. It is ideal for high-speed machining and is commonly used in manufacturing parts like fittings, gears, and lock components. If you need brass parts that require tight tolerances, intricate shapes, or high-volume production, this grade provides the best balance of ease of machining, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
While other brass grades like C27400 or C28000 are available and can be used for specific requirements (such as higher strength or different working properties), they do not match the overall machinability and versatility of C36000. For most CNC machining applications, C36000 remains the top choice due to its excellent performance, consistent results, and broad industry acceptance.

Brass may not be suitable if your application demands extremely high strength or temperature resistance, as it has a lower melting point than steel or some aluminum alloys. In situations where maximum electrical or thermal conductivity is needed, pure copper is often preferable. Additionally, if the working environment could cause rapid corrosion of certain brass grades, or if lead content is a concern (such as in food or medical applications), alternative materials should be considered.