Semi-Red Brass C84400

Alternative Material Options

For applications requiring higher copper content and superior corrosion resistance, Leaded Bronze C83600 offers enhanced performance in corrosive environments. When superior machinability is the primary concern for high-volume production, Leaded Free-Cutting Brass C48500 provides unparalleled cutting performance. For general-purpose applications with good overall properties and cost efficiency, Brass 380 serves as a reliable alternative. In applications requiring higher strength and wear resistance without lead content, Silicon Bronze C65500 offers a premium lead-free solution. For more economical brass casting where a red color is not essential, Brass 360 offers good castability at a lower material cost. When considering non-copper alternatives for plumbing applications, Zamak 3 zinc alloy may be a suitable option for specific low-pressure applications.

International Equivalent / Comparable Grade

Design Purpose

Semi-Red Brass C84400 was specifically developed to provide a cost-effective alternative to higher copper content red brasses and bronzes while maintaining adequate corrosion resistance, pressure tightness, and mechanical properties for general plumbing and valve applications. The alloy's composition was engineered to offer the characteristic red brass appearance and reasonable corrosion resistance of high-copper alloys at a more economical price point by incorporating zinc as a primary alloying element. The addition of tin enhances strength and corrosion resistance, while lead content improves machinability and pressure tightness by filling micro-porosity in the casting. This design approach makes C84400 ideal for manufacturers seeking to balance performance requirements with material costs in applications where the premium properties of gunmetals or high-tin bronzes are not justified.

Chemical Composition

Physical Properties

Mechanical Properties

Key Material Characteristics

• Good corrosion resistance in freshwater and mild chemical environments

• Excellent pressure tightness suitable for plumbing and hydraulic applications

• Superior machinability with 80% rating compared to free-cutting brass

• Good castability with moderate fluidity and minimal shrinkage porosity

• Attractive red brass appearance ideal for decorative plumbing fixtures

• Reasonable mechanical strength for general hardware applications

• Good wear resistance for moving components and valve seats

• Cost-effective alternative to higher copper content red brasses and bronzes

• Compatible with various post-processing and finishing techniques

• Good galling resistance for threaded components and fittings

Manufacturability And Post Process

• Copper Die Casting: Primary manufacturing process offering good fluidity and detail reproduction

• Sand Casting and Permanent Mold Casting: Suitable for larger components and lower volume production

• Post Machining: Excellent machinability enables high-speed drilling, tapping, and threading operations

• Tumbling: Effective for deburring and achieving uniform surface finish on cast components

• Sand Blasting: Creates uniform matte surface texture for aesthetic or functional purposes

• Polishing and Buffing: Achieves high-luster finishes for decorative applications

• Thread Cutting: Produces clean, precise threads with minimal tool wear

Suitable Surface Treatment

• Electroplating: Compatible with nickel, chrome, and antique bronze finishes for decorative hardware

• Clear Lacquering: Preserves natural red brass appearance while preventing tarnishing

• Polishing and Buffing: Achieves high-luster mirror finish for premium decorative applications

• Chemical Patina: Creates antique or weathered appearances for architectural hardware

• Powder Coating: Provides durable, colored finishes with proper surface preparation

• Passivation: Chemical treatment enhances tarnish resistance while maintaining metallic appearance

Common Industries and Applications

• Plumbing fixtures: faucet bodies, valve components, and pipe fittings

• Architectural hardware: door handles, locksets, and decorative building hardware

• Marine fittings: freshwater system components and below-deck hardware

• Industrial valves: gate valves, globe valves, and general service valve bodies

• Pump components: impellers, casings, and fittings for water service

• Electrical connectors: conduit fittings and electrical hardware components

• General hardware: brackets, fasteners, and mechanical components requiring corrosion resistance

When to Choose This Material

• Plumbing and water service applications: Good corrosion resistance in freshwater environments

• Cost-sensitive red brass applications: Economical alternative to higher copper alloys

• Components requiring extensive machining: Excellent machinability reduces production costs

• Pressure-containing components: Superior pressure tightness for hydraulic and pneumatic systems

• Decorative hardware with machining requirements: Combines attractive appearance with manufacturability

• General service valves and fittings: Adequate strength and corrosion resistance for most applications

• Architectural applications requiring red brass appearance: Cost-effective solution for visible hardware