Brass & Copper Machining Calculator
Calculate optimal CNC machining parameters for brass and copper alloys. Free cutting brass, bronze variants, and pure copper - tailored for South African manufacturing.
Material Selection
C360 Free Machining Brass (CZ121)
Most machinable copper alloy, 3% lead content
61% Cu, 36% Zn, 3% Pb
85 HB
100%
115 W/m·K
Fittings, valves, gears, lock components, fasteners
Lead-containing - follow health & safety regulations
Tool & Operation Parameters
Sharp cutting edge, positive rake, polished flutes
Brass & Copper Machining Guide
Benchmark for excellent machinability. High speeds and feeds possible. Short chips.
Very difficult! Soft, gummy, builds up on tool. Use ultra-sharp tools and coolant.
Tough and abrasive. Carbide or diamond tools required. Lower speeds than brass.
Why This Calculator?
- 8 Brass & Copper Grades: From free machining brass to pure copper and bronze alloys
- High-Speed Capable: Brass can be machined at exceptional speeds with right tools
- Built-Up Edge Prevention: Critical for soft copper - sharp tools and coolant essential
- PCD Tool Optimization: Polycrystalline diamond for ultra-long tool life in brass production
- Lead Safety Compliance: Health & safety warnings for lead-containing brass alloys
- South African Context: Local suppliers, ZAR pricing, metric system
South African Context
Plumbing fittings, valves, electrical connectors, bushings, marine hardware, architectural bronze, automotive components
C360 brass widely available. Bronze alloys from specialized suppliers. Pure copper from electrical suppliers.
Lead-containing brass (C360) requires proper dust extraction and PPE. Consider lead-free alternatives for drinking water applications.
Brass & Copper Grades Quick Reference
| Grade | Composition | Machinability | Hardness (HB) | Optimal Speed | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C360 Free Machining Brass (CZ121) | 61% Cu, 36% Zn, 3% Pb | 100% | 85 HB | 250 m/min | Fittings, valves, gears, lock components, fasteners |
| C385 Architectural Bronze | 57% Cu, 40% Zn, 3% Pb | 90% | 75 HB | 230 m/min | Architectural hardware, decorative items, marine fittings |
| C510 Phosphor Bronze (5% Sn) | 95% Cu, 5% Sn, <0.2% P | 60% | 110 HB | 130 m/min | Springs, bearings, bushings, electrical contacts, marine hardware |
| C932 Bearing Bronze (SAE 660) | 83% Cu, 7% Sn, 7% Pb, 3% Zn | 80% | 65 HB | 180 m/min | Heavy-duty bearings, bushings, wear plates, gears |
| C110 ETP Copper (Electrolytic Tough Pitch) | 99.9% Cu | 20% | 45 HB | 90 m/min | Electrical conductors, bus bars, electrodes, heat exchangers |
| C145 Tellurium Copper | 99.5% Cu, 0.5% Te | 85% | 75 HB | 160 m/min | Electrical components, welding torch tips, resistance welding electrodes |
| C630 Aluminum Bronze (9% Al) | 81% Cu, 9% Al, 5% Ni, 5% Fe | 40% | 170 HB | 75 m/min | Marine propellers, pump components, valve seats, worm gears, chemical equipment |
| C655 High Silicon Bronze | 97% Cu, 3% Si | 50% | 100 HB | 110 m/min | Chemical tanks, pressure vessels, marine hardware, fasteners |