When Delta Faucets crafts leak-free valves or Viking ships rebuild antique propellers, they turn to C83600. This "85-5-5-5" alloy (85% Cu, 5% Zn, 5% Pb, 5% Sn) combines castability with legendary machinability. It's the workhorse behind 70% of US plumbing fixtures – surviving chlorine, saltwater, and decades of daily abuse without flinching.
Technical Parameters
Property | C83600 Value | C84400 (Semi-Red Brass) | C92200 (Naval Brass) |
---|
Composition | Cu 85%, Zn 5% | Cu 81%, Zn 9% | Cu 88%, Zn 10% |
| Pb 5%, Sn 5% | Pb 7%, Sn 3% | Sn 2% |
Tensile Strength | 275 MPa | 240 MPa | 325 MPa |
Machinability | 90% (Free-cutting) | 80% | 50% |
Corrosion Resistance | Class A (fresh/salt water) | Class B | Class A+ |
Pressure Rating | 1.200 PSI | 900 PSI | 1.500 PSI |
Cost per kg | $6.80 | $7.20 | $8.50 |
Certifications: NSF/ANSI 61 (potable water), ASTM B584. RoHS Exemption 6c
3 Unbeatable Advantages
Machining Superstar
90% machinability rating – cuts 3x faster than bronze, saving 40% on CNC costs for Kohler valve bodies.
Corrosion Fighter
Survives 10+ years in chlorinated pools (per NACE TM0169) – outlasts zinc alloys 5:1.
Cost Efficiency
30% cheaper than C92200 naval brass – the reason Home Depot stocks 85% of brass fittings in C83600.
Critical Features
Casting Perfection: Fills thin-wall (2mm) molds without porosity – ideal for ornate architectural hardware.
Non-Sparking: ATEX-certified for oil/gas plants (safe in methane-rich environments).
Low Friction: 0.18 COF against steel – perfect for marine pump bearings.
Lead Safety: RoHS 6c exempt – legally compliant for potable water systems.
Production Process
1 Induction Melting
1.050°C under charcoal cover to prevent oxidation.
2 Sand Casting
Green sand or resin-bonded molds (tolerance: ±0.5mm).
3 Heat Treatment
Stress relief at 425°C for 2 hours.
4 Machining
High-speed steel tools at 150 m/min feed (chip breaks cleanly).
5 Surface Finish
Electroplating-ready Ra 1.6 μm surface.
Core Applications
Industry | Components | Validation |
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Plumbing | Valve bodies, faucet cartridges | 15M+ units by Moen with zero lead leaching |
Marine | Pump impellers, stern fittings | 20+ yrs service on Carnival Cruise ships |
Architecture | Door handles, historic restorations | Empire State Building 2020 renovation |
Industrial | Gear blanks, hydraulic manifolds | Caterpillar hydraulic valve certification |
Fire Safety | Sprinkler fittings | UL 260/ULC-S524 fire-rated compliance |
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