Brasses are alloys of Copper and Zinc. They may also contain small amounts of other alloying elements to impart advantageous properties. Brasses have high corrosion resistance and high tensile strength. They are also suited to fabrication by hot forging. Free machining grades of brass set the standard for machining, by which other metals are compared.
Brasses are divided into two classes. The alpha alloys, with less than 37% Zinc, and the alpha/beta alloys with 37-45% Zinc. Alpha alloys are ductile and can be cold worked. Alpha/beta or duplex alloys have limited cold ductility and are harder and stronger. CZ121 / CW614N is an alpha/beta alloy.
Brass alloy CZ121 / CW614N is used for machining. It has Lead added to the composition to improve machinability. The Lead remains insoluble in the microstructure of the brass and the soft particles act as chip breakers.
Applications - CZ121/CW614N is typically used in:
High speed machined components
Architectural extrusions
Locks
Hinges
Alloy Designations
CZ121/CW614N corresponds to the following designations:
UNS C38500
CuZn39Pb3
Corrosion Resistance
The corrosion resistance of CZ121/CW614N is fair to excellent.
Cold Working
Cold working of CZ121/CW614N is poor and is not recommended. It can, however, be knurled if required.
Hot Working
Fabrication of CZ121/CW614N by hot working is excellent. It is recommended that hot working be done between 630 and 730°C.
Heat Treatment
Solution treatment or annealing can be done by rapid cooling after heating to 430-600°C.
Machinability
The machinability of alloy CZ121/CW614N is excellent. It has a machinability rating of 100 and is the standard against which the machinability of other alloys is measured.
Weldability
Soldering of CZ121/CW614N is rated as excellent and brazing is good. Butt welding is fair but all other welding methods are not recommended.
This Data is indicative only and must not be seen as a substitute for the full specification from which it is drawn. In particular, the mechanical property requirements vary widely with temper, product and product dimensions. The information is based on our present knowledge and is given in good faith. However, no liability will be accepted by the Company is respect of any action taken by any third party in reliance thereon.
As the products detailed may be used for a wide variety of purposes and as the Company has no control over their use; the Company specifically excludes all conditions or warranties expressed or implied by statute or otherwise as to dimensions, properties and/or fitness for any particular purpose.
Any advice given by the Company to any third party is given for that party’s assistance only and without liability on the part of the Company. Any contract between the Company and a customer will be subject to the company’s Conditions of Sale. The extent of the Company’s liabilities to any customer is clearly set out in those Conditions; a copy of which is available on request.