Silicon Brass C87850
Material Introduction
Silicon Brass C87850 is an innovative, environmentally friendly copper alloy developed as a high-performance lead-free alternative for precision copper die casting applications. By replacing traditional lead content with silicon, this advanced alloy delivers excellent machinability while complying with stringent international environmental regulations such as RoHS and Drinking Water Standards. C87850 offers superior mechanical properties, exceptional fluidity during casting, and outstanding corrosion resistance—making it the ideal choice for plumbing components, food processing equipment, and consumer products where both performance and regulatory compliance are critical. When processed through Neway's advanced tool and die making capabilities and integrated post-machining services, it ensures reliable, high-volume production of complex, precision components that meet the most demanding industry standards.
Alternative Material Options
For applications where lead-free requirements are not mandatory and maximum machinability is desired, Leaded Free-Cutting Brass C48500 remains the benchmark for free-machining performance. When higher strength and wear resistance are required, Aluminum Bronze C95400 provides superior mechanical properties. For general-purpose brass applications with good corrosion resistance, Brass 360 offers a balanced solution. In applications requiring excellent thermal conductivity, C17500 copper alloy may be a preferable choice. For cost-effective, high-strength alternatives in non-copper applications, Zamak 5 zinc alloy or A380 aluminum alloy can be considered based on specific property requirements.
International Equivalent / Comparable Grade
Country/Region | Equivalent / Comparable Grade | Specific Commercial Brands | Notes |
USA (ASTM/UNS) | C87850 (Silicon Brass) | Mueller Brass C87850, PMX Silicon Brass, Concast C87850 | Standard UNS designation for lead-free silicon brass alloys. |
Europe (EN) | CuZn21Si3P | KME EcoBrass, Wieland CuZn21Si3P, Luvata EcoBrass | European lead-free brass equivalent with similar silicon content. |
Japan (JIS) | C6783 (Low-Lead Version) | JX Nippon Eco Brass, Mitsubishi Shindoh Lead-Free Brass | Japanese eco-brass grades with reduced lead content. |
Germany (DIN) | CuZn21Si3P | Diehl Metall EcoBrass, Aurubis CuZn21Si3P | German specification for lead-free silicon brass alloys. |
China (GB/T) | HBi60-2.5 | Ningbo Eco Brass, Zhongse Lead-Free Brass | Chinese eco-brass standards with bismuth/silicon additions. |
International (ISO) | CuZn21Si3P | Various ISO-certified lead-free brass producers | International standard for silicon-based lead-free brass. |
Design Purpose
Silicon Brass C87850 was specifically engineered to address the growing global demand for high-performance, lead-free copper alloys that comply with increasingly strict environmental and health regulations. The strategic replacement of lead with silicon maintains excellent machinability while significantly improving mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. This innovative composition was designed to provide manufacturers with a viable alternative that doesn't compromise on manufacturing efficiency or component performance. Its development specifically targets applications requiring regulatory compliance for potable water contact, food processing equipment, and consumer products, while maintaining the manufacturing advantages traditional brass alloys offered. The alloy's enhanced fluidity and casting characteristics make it particularly suitable for complex, thin-walled components produced through high-volume metal casting processes.
Chemical Composition
Element | Copper (Cu) | Zinc (Zn) | Silicon (Si) | Lead (Pb) | Other Elements |
Composition (%) | 80.0-83.0 | 12.0-16.0 | 3.0-4.5 | ≤0.09 | ≤0.5 total |
Physical Properties
Property | Density | Melting Range | Thermal Conductivity | Electrical Conductivity | Thermal Expansion |
Value | 8.0 g/cm³ | 900-940°C | 75 W/m·K | 18% IACS | 19.5 μm/m·°C |
Mechanical Properties
Property | Tensile Strength | Yield Strength (0.5%) | Elongation | Hardness | Machinability Rating |
Value | 450 MPa | 250 MPa | 20% | 110 HB | 80% (Good) |
Key Material Characteristics
Lead-free composition compliant with RoHS and drinking water standards.
Excellent machinability (80% of C36000) despite being lead-free.
Superior mechanical strength and hardness compared to traditional brasses.
Exceptional corrosion resistance in freshwater and marine environments.
Excellent castability with superior fluidity and minimal shrinkage.
Good wear resistance and anti-galling properties for moving components.
Features an attractive golden color suitable for decorative applications.
Maintains pressure tightness for plumbing and hydraulic applications.
Compatible with all standard post-processing techniques.
Environmentally friendly and recyclable, with no special handling requirements.
Manufacturability And Post Process
Copper Die Casting: Primary manufacturing process with excellent fluidity and mold filling characteristics.
Post Machining: Good machinability enables efficient drilling, tapping, and milling operations.
CNC Machining: Suitable for precision components with tight tolerances (±0.03 mm).
Thread Cutting and Tapping: Produces clean threads with reasonable tool life.
Tumbling: Effective for deburring and achieving smooth surface finishes.
Sand Blasting: Creates uniform surface textures for aesthetic or functional purposes.
Polishing and Buffing: Achieves high-quality surface finishes for decorative applications.
Suitable Surface Treatment
Clear Lacquering: Preserves natural brass appearance while preventing tarnishing.
Electroplating: Compatible with nickel, chrome, and gold plating for enhanced durability and appearance.
Powder Coating: Provides durable, colored finishes with proper surface preparation.
Passivation: Chemical treatment enhances corrosion resistance while maintaining metallic appearance.
Antique Patina: Chemical treatments create the appearance of aged or vintage effects.
Polished Finish: Achieves high-luster mirror finish for premium decorative applications.
Common Industries and Applications
Plumbing fixtures and potable water system components (NSF/ANSI 61 compliant).
Food processing equipment and beverage dispensing systems.
Architectural hardware, door handles, and decorative fittings.
Electrical connectors and electronic housing components.
Marine hardware and coastal architectural applications.
Medical equipment components and healthcare hardware.
Consumer products requiring lead-free compliance and aesthetic appeal.
When to Choose This Material
Regulatory compliance requirements: Meets RoHS, NSF/ANSI 61, and other lead-free standards.
Potable water applications: Certified safe for drinking water contact and distribution systems.
Enhanced mechanical properties: Higher strength and hardness than traditional brasses.
Superior corrosion resistance: Excellent performance in aggressive environments.
Complex casting geometries: Excellent fluidity enables intricate, thin-walled designs.
Food contact applications: Complies with FDA and other food safety regulations.
Environmental sustainability: Lead-free composition supports green manufacturing initiatives.
