Brass Alloys: Understanding Grades and Applications

Technical & Industry-Focused, Brass Alloys, Grades & Forms

At Alini Metals & Plastics, we pride ourselves on offering an extensive range of brass materials suited for a wide array of industrial applications.

Brass, a durable and versatile alloy made from copper and zinc, stands out for its corrosion resistance, machinability, and excellent conductivity. Its composition can be adjusted to meet the specific requirements of different industries, making it one of the most adaptable materials available.

Whether you need brass for automotive, aerospace, marine, electrical, or plumbing purposes, we can supply or procure the brass grade and form that best suits your project.

Available Brass Grades

CZ106 – CW505L
This alloy is known for its general-purpose use and exceptional formability. It is well-suited for a variety of applications where strength and durability are essential.

CW508L (CZ108)
A highly ductile alpha brass, CW508L is admired for its corrosion resistance, making it ideal for decorative and functional purposes alike. This brass grade is commonly used for switch components, fasteners, and components that are exposed to harsh environmental conditions.

CW614N (CZ121)
Often chosen for intricate engineering and plumbing components, CW614N stands out for its outstanding machinability. It’s highly formable and provides the added benefit of excellent corrosion resistance, making it a top choice for parts requiring high precision, such as those used in electronics and engineering.

CW712R (CZ112)
Also known as Naval Brass, CW712R is specially formulated to withstand the most extreme marine environments. This grade is composed of copper, zinc, and a small amount of tin, making it highly resistant to seawater corrosion. CW712R is perfect for maritime applications such as valves, fittings, and other components regularly exposed to saltwater.

CW721R (CZ114)
Known for its strength and versatility, CW721R, also referred to as Manganese Bronze or High Tensile Brass, is suitable for high-strength applications like fittings, valves, and marine components. Its excellent corrosion resistance adds to its appeal in both industrial and maritime settings.

CZ130 – CW624N
This grade is recognised for its high corrosion resistance and machinability, making it ideal for high-stress environments.

CZ132 – CW602N
Known for its exceptional ability to withstand dezincification, this grade of brass is often utilised in environments with high water exposure, particularly in plumbing and piping systems.

Brass Forms & Shapes

Brass Round Tube
Perfect for both functional and aesthetic applications, brass round tubes are known for their versatility. These tubes are often used in plumbing, decorative applications, and the manufacture of machinery parts due to their durability and high corrosion resistance.

Brass Box Section
Offering structural strength, brass box sections are used in a variety of architectural and industrial settings. Their balance of strength and aesthetics makes them popular for frames, supports, and structural components.

Brass Round Bar
Brass round bars are excellent for applications that require conductivity and corrosion resistance. Typically used for fasteners, fittings, and in electrical engineering, these tough sections are easy to machine and form into precise shapes.

Brass Rod
Highly regarded for its toughness and machinability, brass rods are utilised where both strength and conductivity are key factors. They are most commonly used in fittings, fasteners, and various electrical applications.

Brass Square Bar
Brass square bars offer a high degree of strength and resistance to corrosion, making them ideal for structural and mechanical applications. They are also highly workable, lending themselves to precise machining.

Brass Flat Bar
This form of brass, often alloyed with other elements like tin or lead, is known for its strength and durability. Brass flat bars are harder than many other non-ferrous alloys, making them suitable for high-stress applications such as structural and mechanical uses.

Brass Angle Section
Ideal for reinforcement and structural applications, brass angle sections provide high levels of strength while maintaining a clean, aesthetic appearance. Their resistance to corrosion makes them perfect for outdoor and marine environments.

Brass Strip
Brass strips are commonly used where flexibility and workability are needed. For example, in vehicle radiators, the material’s ability to be formed into complex shapes makes it indispensable for intricate designs.

Brass Channel Section
With excellent strength-to-weight ratios, brass channel sections are ideal for both structural and decorative purposes. Their resistance to corrosion and durability make them a popular choice for construction and architectural applications.

Brass Tee Section
Tee sections are primarily used in applications requiring reinforcement and structural support. Their durability and ease of machinability make them a valuable choice for various industrial uses.

Brass Sheet
Referred to as ‘Yellow Brass’ due to its high copper content, brass sheet is a go-to material for hardware projects, as well as in the agricultural and industrial sectors. It’s easy to work with and offers a distinct, attractive finish.

Brass Flat/Convex
These brass sections are known for their strength and flexibility. Their unique profile makes them suitable for various mechanical applications, particularly where aesthetic appeal is also a consideration.

Brass Wire
Used across industries, brass wire is highly versatile. It finds applications in electrical engineering for coils, transformers, and wiring, and is also widely utilised in shipbuilding and instrumentation.

Brass Foil
Brass foil, due to its thinness and high workability, is often used for precision components in electronics, along with decorative and artistic projects where detail is paramount.

Brass Hexagon
Brass hexagons are highly machinable and typically used in fasteners, fittings, and industrial machinery. Their unique shape provides excellent grip and rotational strength.

Brass Barley Twist Tube
This unique form combines aesthetic appeal with functionality, often used for decorative purposes in architectural features and furniture design.

Brass Reeded Tube
Characterised by a distinct pattern, reeded tubes are commonly used for decorative applications in both modern and classical designs.

Brass Rope Twist Tube
With a twisted rope design, this brass tube is both functional and highly decorative, commonly found in ornamental designs, including furniture and architectural details.

Brass Baroque Lotus Tube, Arc Tube, Regal Tube
These intricately designed tubes are perfect for ornate detailing in furniture, architecture, and other decorative projects. Their unique baroque designs lend a sophisticated touch to any application.

Brass Grooved Box Tube & Triangular Tube
These grooved tubes are ideal for structural applications requiring both strength and decorative flair. They are widely used in architectural and interior design projects.

Brass Octagonal & Hexagonal Tube
Both octagonal and hexagonal tubes offer high machinability and are used in industries ranging from electrical engineering to decorative construction, where strength and unique shapes are required.

Brass Elliptical Tube
Elliptical tubes provide a modern aesthetic and are often used in furniture design and architectural features. Their shape also enhances structural strength while maintaining a lightweight profile.

Brass Plate
Brass plates, typically featuring a steel or zinc core with a brass coating, are used in hardware applications requiring durability and a sleek finish. The lacquer coating enhances their resistance to wear and tear.

Brass Billet
Brass billets are large cross-sectioned bars used in heavy-duty applications such as taps, valves, pumps, and pressure seal casting. Their strength and versatility make them indispensable in mechanics and engineering.

Brass Threaded Rod
Brass threaded rods are precision-engineered to offer excellent corrosion resistance, strength, and conductivity. Their threaded design makes them ideal for fastening applications in industries such as construction, electrical, and plumbing. Brass threaded rods are particularly favoured where durability and resistance to moisture are critical, such as in marine environments or outdoor applications. They are also easy to cut and customise to specific lengths, making them a versatile choice for a variety of fastening solutions. Their aesthetic appeal and long-lasting performance make them suitable for decorative applications as well.

Brass Fabrication Services

We offer custom brass fabrication with flexible manufacturing options, whether you need a single item or a large batch. Our state-of-the-art facilities can achieve a variety of finishes, from mirror-polished to satin or brush polished. Additionally, we can apply patina finishes for an aged look, or protective coatings such as lacquer or beeswax to enhance durability.

If we don’t have your required brass product in stock, we are happy to source bespoke materials, delivering them with some of the shortest lead times in the industry.

At Alini Metals & Plastics, we are dedicated to meeting your brass stock needs with precision and reliability.

Custom Brass Finishes

At Alini Metals & Plastics, we offer a wide range of custom finishes that can be applied to all brass forms, although they are especially popular for Brass sheet due to its versatility in decorative and architectural applications.

Our expert team crafts stunning finishes that cater to various design aesthetics, from modern minimalism to vintage charm. Whether you’re looking for a sleek, reflective finish or a rich, timeworn patina, we have the perfect option to elevate your project.

Aged Brass Finish
The aged brass finish gives a timeworn, vintage appearance that adds character to any project. By mimicking the natural aging process, this finish deepens over time, making it a popular choice for projects with a rustic, industrial, or historical appeal.

Blackened Brass Finish
This finish provides a rich, darkened tone achieved through a chemical patina process. Its deep, dramatic hue is perfect for modern, minimalist designs or any project where a bold contrast is desired. It works particularly well in interior décor applications.

Bronzed Brass Finish
A warm, bronzed hue is applied to the brass, giving it a rich tone reminiscent of bronze itself. This finish is ideal for applications where warmth and elegance are key, such as decorative trim, handles, and accent features in architectural designs.

Antique Brass Finish
The antique brass finish offers a slightly tarnished, weathered appearance that is perfect for creating a vintage or classic look. This finish is often used in architectural projects that seek a historical or traditional feel, such as for feature items and furniture.

Flamed Brass Finish
Created by applying controlled heat to the brass, the flamed finish results in a beautiful array of colors—ranging from gold to red to subtle blue hues. This artistic, iridescent finish is perfect for projects that need a striking, one-of-a-kind appearance.

Satin Finish
A satin finish gives brass a soft, smooth sheen without the high reflectivity of polished brass. This finish is ideal for contemporary designs where a subtle, refined aesthetic is desired. It’s often used in both interior and exterior architectural applications.

Verdigris Patina
This finish recreates the natural greenish-blue oxidation that occurs over time with copper and brass. Verdigris is highly sought after for projects that aim to capture a weathered, antique look. It’s popular in outdoor features, sculptures, and decorative panels, especially in garden and coastal settings.

Brushed Brass Finish
Brushed brass features fine, linear scratches that create a textured, matte look. This finish adds depth and sophistication without being overly reflective, making it a great choice for modern, industrial-inspired designs, particularly for hardware and architectural elements.

Matte Brass Finish
Matte brass offers a non-glossy, muted surface that provides a clean and understated look. It’s perfect for contemporary designs where minimal shine is required, and its ease of maintenance makes it practical for high-traffic areas.

Pewter Finish
The pewter finish gives brass a silvery-grey tone, creating an aged, soft metallic appearance. It’s perfect for applications that require a neutral, understated finish, blending seamlessly with both modern and traditional styles.

Oil-Rubbed Finish
Oil-rubbed brass has a deep, rich tone with subtle variations created by applying an oil-based patina. This finish gives brass an earthy, hand-worn look, adding warmth and character. It’s popular for rustic and vintage-inspired designs, especially for cabinetry and hardware.

Polished Brass Finish
Highly reflective with a mirror-like surface, polished brass exudes luxury and sophistication. This finish is ideal for high-end architectural applications like hotel lobbies, luxury homes, and public spaces, offering a bright, pristine look that stands out.

Architectural Applications of Custom Brass Finishes

Custom finishes on brass are not only visually stunning but also provide functional benefits, making them ideal for various architectural applications. Whether indoors or outdoors, brass with a custom finish becomes a focal point, offering both aesthetic appeal and long-lasting performance. Some of the most common architectural uses include:

Wall Cladding: Brass sheets with finishes such as aged, satin, or Verdigris patina are perfect for wall cladding. The material adds texture, depth, and a unique metallic shine to both interior and exterior spaces, making it ideal for high-end residential and commercial properties.
Bar Fronts: Custom-finished brass bar fronts can transform a simple space into a luxurious, eye-catching feature. From the vintage charm of antique brass to the sleek, modern look of blackened or bronzed finishes, brass bar fronts bring both durability and elegance to the design.
Splash Backs: Splash backs made from brass sheets with specialised finishes offer both style and practicality. Aged, flamed, or brushed brass splash backs are common in kitchens, bars, and bathrooms, providing an easy-to-clean surface that also serves as a beautiful focal point.
Feature Items: Custom-finished brass is often used for creating standout feature items in architectural projects. From bespoke lighting fixtures and furniture accents to door hardware and sculptures, brass with finishes such as oil-rubbed or pewter can enhance any space with its unique charm and character.

Our custom brass finishes are designed to give you flexibility and creativity in your projects. Whether you’re working on a high-end architectural installation or a personalised interior design, Alini Metals & Plastics delivers expertly finished brass products that bring your vision to life.