Introduction to Brass CNC Machining
Brass is a copper-zinc alloy prized in precision manufacturing for its excellent machinability, corrosion resistance, and electrical conductivity. This versatile material is ideal for components that require tight tolerances, durability, and a professional finish. At Clarwe, we leverage our network of ISO-certified partners and in-house QAQC to machine brass alloys like C360 to the highest standards, ensuring reliability for critical industrial applications.
Key Advantages of Brass:
Brass Compared to Other Common CNC Materials
While aluminum, steel, and plastics are common choices, brass is the superior material for applications where machinability, corrosion resistance, and conductivity are paramount. Compared to aluminum, brass is easier to machine to finer finishes and offers better wear resistance. Unlike steel, it is naturally corrosion-resistant without requiring plating. And versus plastics, brass provides greater structural strength, thermal stability, and electrical conductivity.
| Material | Machinability | Corrosion Resistance | Conductivity | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brass (C360) | Excellent | Very Good | Very Good | $$ | Fittings, connectors, gears, electrical components |
| Aluminum | Excellent | Good | Good | $ | Aerospace, automotive, lightweight structural parts |
| Stainless Steel | Good | Excellent | Poor | $$$ | Medical, food processing, high-strength applications |
| Plastics | Excellent | Varies | Insulative | $ | Enclosures, prototypes, low-cost, non-conductive parts |
Brass Alloys: Properties and Applications
At Clarwe, we know that selecting the right brass alloy is fundamental to your component's performance and longevity. We machine a range of brass materials, each offering unique benefits for specific industrial applications, from the unparalleled machinability of C360 to the specialized properties of naval and lead-free alloys.
Common Brass Alloys & Their Uses
C360 (Free-Cutting Brass)
The machinability champion. Excellent for high-speed production of complex parts like gears, fittings, valves, and screw machine components where detail and precision are critical.
C260 (Cartridge Brass)
The versatile performer. Offers a great balance of good formability, strength, and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for electrical connectors, ammunition components, and architectural hardware.
C464 (Naval Brass)
The marine expert. With added tin for superior resistance to dezincification and saltwater corrosion, it is the preferred choice for marine hardware, propeller shafts, and pump parts.
C485 (Leaded Manganese Brass)
The high-strength option. Manganese and lead content provide enhanced strength and wear resistance over other brasses, suitable for heavy-duty gears, bearings, and bushing applications.
Technical Specifications of Popular Brass Alloys
| Brass Alloy Common Name | Tensile Strength (MPa) | Yield Strength (MPa) | Hardness (Brinell) | Machinability Rating | Best Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C360 (Free-Cutting) | 469 | 310 | 105 | 100% (Reference) | Gears, fittings, valves, high-volume precision parts |
| C260 (Cartridge Brass) | 400 | 195 | 100 | 80% | Electrical connectors, hinges, ammunition casings, springs |
| C464 (Naval Brass) | 450 | 195 | 100 | 70% | Marine components, ship fittings, heat exchanger tubes |
| C485 (Leaded Manganese) | 510 | 255 | 115 | 60% | Gears, bearings, bushings, high-wear components |
How to Choose the Right Brass Alloy for Your Project
The best brass for your project depends on the balance of machinability, strength, corrosion resistance, and final application. Need the fastest machining for complex, high-volume parts? C360 is the undisputed choice. Designing a component for harsh marine environments? C464 naval brass is essential. Requiring a combination of good formability and conductivity? C260 is your ideal solution.
Our engineering team is ready to guide you. As part of our free Design for Manufacturability (DFM) analysis, we provide expert recommendations on the most efficient and cost-effective brass alloy to ensure your part performs flawlessly.
CNC Machining Capabilities for Brass Components
At Clarwe, we harness advanced CNC technology to transform your brass designs into high-precision reality. Our extensive network of manufacturing partners and in-house QAQC ensures every brass component, from simple prototypes to complex production runs, is machined to meet the tightest tolerances and highest quality standards.
CNC Milling Services for Brass
Our multi-axis CNC milling centers deliver exceptional precision for brass parts, leveraging the material's excellent machinability to create complex geometries and fine details with superior surface finishes. From rapid prototyping to full production, we maintain rigorous accuracy across all brass alloys.
- ⇒ Multi-Axis Machining: 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis capabilities for complex contours and single-setup machining
- ⇒ High-Speed Production: Optimized feeds and speeds for efficient, high-volume brass part manufacturing
- ⇒ Complex Detail Work: Precision machining of fine features, thin walls, and complex profiles
- ⇒ Consistent Quality: In-house inspection ensures every milled brass part meets exact specifications
CNC Turning Services for Brass
Our CNC turning capabilities produce precision round brass components with excellent concentricity and smooth finishes. Using both standard and Swiss-style lathes, we deliver turned parts that meet demanding specifications for roundness, threading, and tolerance requirements.
- ⇒ Swiss-Style Precision: Ultra-precise turning for small, complex brass components with tight tolerances
- ⇒ Live Tooling Capabilities: Mill and drill features during turning operations for complete part completion
- ⇒ High-Volume Production: Expertise in mass production of brass fittings, connectors, and fasteners
- ⇒ Secondary Operations: Comprehensive finishing, deburring, and quality verification
CNC EDM Services for Brass
For the most challenging brass components requiring extreme precision and complex details, our Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) services deliver unmatched accuracy. We utilize both wire and sinker EDM to create precise features and complex geometries in brass alloys.
- ⇒ Wire EDM: Precision cutting of complex shapes and fine features with exceptional accuracy
- ⇒ Sinker EDM: Complex cavities, sharp internal corners, and detailed textures in brass components
- ⇒ Small Hole EDM: Precision micro-holes and complex patterns for specialized applications
- ⇒ Fine Detail Work: Perfect for complex brass parts that require precision beyond conventional machining
Technical Specifications at a Glance
| Process | Tolerance Capability | Standard Lead Time | Max Part Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CNC Milling | ±0.015mm | 3-5 days | 600mm x 400mm x 300mm | Complex geometries, enclosures, brackets |
| CNC Turning | ±0.020mm | 2-4 days | Ø60mm x 300mm | Fittings, connectors, shafts, fasteners |
| CNC EDM | ±0.005mm | 5-7 days | 300mm x 200mm x 150mm | Complex details, fine features, complex shapes |
Whether you need simple milling, complex turning, or precision EDM work, our network of ISO-certified partners and in-house quality control delivers brass parts that meet your most demanding requirements. We combine advanced technology with engineering expertise to ensure your brass components perform flawlessly in their intended applications.
See Our Full CNC Capabilities | Request a Free Consultation | Explore Available Brass Alloys
Surface Finishing Options for Brass Parts
Enhance the functionality, durability, and appearance of your machined brass components with our comprehensive range of surface finishing services. From improving corrosion resistance to achieving specific aesthetic qualities, we provide the perfect finish to meet both your technical requirements and visual expectations.
Plating & Coating Services
Electroplating adds enhanced properties and aesthetic appeal to brass components while maintaining their inherent benefits:
• Nickel Plating: Superior hardness and wear resistance for industrial applications
• Chrome Plating: Extreme surface hardness with bright, reflective appearance
• Silver Plating: Excellent electrical conductivity with anti-tarnishing properties
• Electroless Nickel: Uniform coating without electricity for complex geometries
Protective Coatings
Specialized coatings that preserve brass's natural beauty while providing environmental protection:
• Clear Lacquer Coating: Prevents tarnishing while maintaining brass's natural appearance
• Powder Coating: Durable, thick-layer protection with extensive color options
• Anti-Tarnish Treatments: Chemical coatings that inhibit oxidation and discoloration
• EPDM Rubber Coating: Protective insulation for electrical components
Mechanical Finishes
Transform surface texture and prepare components for additional finishing with our mechanical options:
• Polishing: Mirror-like reflective surface for enhanced aesthetic appeal
• Bead Blasting: Uniform matte finish that conceals machining marks
• Brushing: Directional satin finish for visual applications
• Tumbling: Deburring and edge-breaking for improved safety and handling
Specialty Finishes
Unique processes that create distinctive appearances and functional properties:
• Antiquing/Oxidation: Chemical treatments that create aged or darkened appearances
• Satin Nickel Finish: Brushed nickel appearance without actual plating
• Passivation: Chemical process that enhances corrosion resistance
• Custom Patinas: Specialized chemical treatments for unique color effects
Brass Surface Finishing
| Finish Type | Thickness | Corrosion Resistance | Appearance | Best Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nickel Plating | 0.0005-0.002" | Excellent | Bright Silver | Marine hardware, industrial components |
| Chrome Plating | 0.0001-0.0003" | Superior | Mirror Bright | Decorative trim, automotive parts |
| Clear Lacquer | 0.0002-0.0005" | Very Good | Natural Brass | Architectural hardware, consumer products |
| Polishing | N/A | Fair | Mirror Finish | Decorative elements, musical instruments |
| Bead Blasting | N/A | Good | Uniform Matte | Medical devices, scientific instruments |
Whether you need functional protection, enhanced electrical properties, or specific aesthetic qualities, our finishing experts will recommend the optimal solution for your brass components. Every finish is applied with strict quality control to ensure consistent results that meet your exact specifications.
Brass CNC Machining Applications by Industry
From prototyping to full-scale production, brass CNC machining delivers reliability and performance across critical industries. At Clarwe, we leverage our network of ISO-certified partners and in-house QAQC to produce precision brass components that meet the rigorous demands of these sectors.
Marine & Offshore
The exceptional corrosion resistance of naval brass makes it indispensable in marine environments where saltwater exposure would compromise other materials. Our brass components withstand harsh conditions while maintaining structural integrity.
• Propeller shafts and marine hardware
• Underwater connectors and valve components
• Pump housings and impellers for seawater systems
• Deck fittings and cleats
• Heat exchanger tubes and condenser plates
Plumbing & Fluid Systems
Brass remains the material of choice for plumbing applications due to its corrosion resistance, durability, and machinability. We produce components that ensure leak-free performance in critical fluid systems.
• Precision valve bodies and stems
• Pipe fittings and connectors
• Water meter components and housing
• Pump components and pressure regulators
• Custom plumbing fixtures and assemblies
Electrical & Electronics
The excellent electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance of brass make it ideal for electrical applications where reliability is non-negotiable. Our components ensure consistent performance in demanding electrical systems.
• Electrical connectors and terminal blocks
• Power distribution components
• Waveguide components for communications
• Circuit breaker parts and switchgear components
• EMI/RFI shielding enclosures
Automotive & Transportation
From traditional vehicles to electric transportation, brass components provide reliability in critical systems. Our machining capabilities deliver parts that meet automotive standards for performance and durability.
• Fuel system components and fittings
• Electrical connectors and battery terminals
• Transmission components and bushings
• Sensor housings and mounting brackets
• HVAC system components and valves
Industrial & Manufacturing
Keep operations running smoothly with brass components that offer excellent wear resistance and durability in demanding industrial environments. We deliver parts that withstand the rigors of daily operation.
• Gear systems and timing components
• Bearing cages and bushings
• Pneumatic and hydraulic system parts
• Machinery components and custom fittings
• Tooling components and production aids
Industry Applications
| Industry | Common Alloys | Key Requirements | Typical Components |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marine | C464, C485 | Corrosion resistance, strength | Propeller shafts, marine hardware |
| Plumbing | C360, C377 | Machinability, corrosion resistance | Valve bodies, pipe fittings |
| Electrical | C260, C360 | Conductivity, precision | Connectors, terminal blocks |
| Automotive | C360, C485 | Durability, wear resistance | Fuel components, bushings |
| Industrial | C360, C485 | Wear resistance, machinability | Gears, bearing components |
Quality Assurance and Certifications
At Clarwe, quality isn't just a step in our process—it's the foundation of everything we do. Our comprehensive quality management system ensures every brass component we machine meets the highest standards of precision, reliability, and compliance. From prototype to production, we deliver consistent quality you can trust through our unique dual-layer quality system that combines in-house QA/QC labs with our vetted network of ISO-certified manufacturing partners .
| Certifications & Compliance |
We maintain rigorous certifications that demonstrate our commitment to excellence across industries: ISO 9001:2015 Certified: Quality management system certification with full vertical control from material receipt to final inspection AS9100D Certified: Aerospace quality management system for critical components ISO 13485:2016 Certified: Medical device quality management for healthcare applications PPAP Compliance: Full Production Part Approval Process support for automotive and industrial applications RoHS/REACH Compliance: Material certification for environmental regulations and international shipping |
| Quality Control Processes |
Our multi-stage inspection process ensures every brass part meets your exact specifications: First Article Inspection (FAIR): Comprehensive initial part validation with AS9102-compliant reports In-Process Inspection: Real-time quality checks during production with statistical process control Final Inspection: Complete dimensional verification before shipment using advanced metrology equipment Material Traceability: Full mill test reports with heat/lot traceability for complete material forensics Documentation Package: Complete quality records with every order including certificates of conformity |
| Advanced Inspection Equipment |
We invest in cutting-edge metrology equipment to verify brass part accuracy: Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM): Zeiss CONTURA CMM with ±0.005mm accuracy for complex geometries 3D Scanning Technology: Keyence VR-5000 scanners for comprehensive surface profile analysis Surface Roughness Testers: Quantitative surface finish validation per ISO 1302 standards Optical Comparators: 2D profile measurement and verification for critical dimensions Custom Fixturing: Part-specific inspection setups for complex brass components |
| Quality Documentation |
We provide comprehensive documentation with every brass component order: • Certificate of Conformity: Material and specification compliance with full traceability • First Article Inspection Reports: Detailed initial part validation with dimensional data sets and deviation heatmaps • Material Certifications: Mill test reports with spectroscopy verification and RoHS/REACH compliance • Inspection Reports: Complete dimensional validation data with statistical process capability reports • Process Certifications: Special process documentation including PPAP packages for automotive applications |
| Industry-Specific Compliance |
Our quality systems meet the strict requirements of regulated industries: • Aerospace: AS9102 FAIR, process validation, and flight-critical documentation for brass components • Medical: ISO 10993 biocompatibility testing, sterilization validation support, and cleanroom manufacturing • Automotive: PPAP levels 1-5, statistical process capability reporting with Cpk values exceeding 1.67 • Marine & Plumbing: Corrosion resistance validation, pressure testing, and material composition certification |
Quality Capabilities Overview
| Inspection Method | Accuracy Capability | Best For | Industry Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| CMM Inspection | ±0.005mm | Complex 3D geometries, free-form surfaces | Aerospace, medical devicesmedical devices |
| 3D Optical Scanning | ±0.002mm | Full surface mapping, deviation analysis | Automotive, precision engineering |
| Surface Roughness Analysis | ±0.001μm | Surface finish validation | Medical, marine components |
| Hardness Testing | ±1% | Material property verification | Industrial, automotive applications |
| Visual Inspection | N/A | Cosmetic defects, surface quality | Consumer products, architectural elements |
From raw material certification to final inspection, our quality assurance team ensures every brass component meets your exact requirements. We don't just measure parts—we build trust through consistent excellence and comprehensive documentation that gives you complete confidence in every brass component we deliver .
Get a Project Review | Contact Our Engineering Team | Request a Callback
Design Guidelines for Brass CNC Machining
Designing brass parts for CNC machining requires leveraging the material's excellent machinability while accounting for its unique properties. Follow these expert guidelines to optimize your designs for superior performance, faster production, and reduced costs. Our engineering team provides free Design for Manufacturability (DFM) analysis to ensure your brass components are production-ready.
Key Design Considerations
- Wall Thickness: Maintain minimum 0.5mm wall thickness for structural stability
- Internal Corners: Use radius rather than sharp corners (recommended: 0.5mm minimum)
- Hole Depth: Limit through holes to 8x diameter, blind holes to 4x diameter
- Thread Depth: Design internal threads at least 1.5x hole diameter deep
- Text Engraving: Minimum 0.3mm character height with clean, readable fonts
- Tolerances: Specify critical dimensions only to maintain cost-effectiveness
Standard Machining Tolerances
- Standard Machining:
±0.05mm (±0.002") - Precision Machining:
±0.025mm (±0.001") - High-Precision:
±0.0125mm (±0.0005") with specialized processes - Surface Finish:
Standard Ra 1.6μm,
fine machining Ra 0.4μm achievable
Recommended Design Parameters for Brass
| Feature Type | Recommended Value | Minimum Value | Design Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wall Thickness | 1.0mm | 0.5mm | Leverage brass's strength for thinner walls |
| Internal Corner Radius | 0.5mm | 0.3mm | Larger radii improve tool life and speed |
| Hole Diameter | Standard drill sizes | 0.3mm | Depth ≤ 8x diameter for optimal accuracy |
| Thread Size | M2 and larger | M1 | Brass excels with fine threading applications |
| Text Engraving | 0.8mm character height | 0.3mm | Utilize brass's excellent engraving properties |
| Minimum Feature Size | 0.5mm | 0.2mm | Brass supports extremely fine detail work |
Design for Manufacturing Tips
• Leverage Machinability: Design complex geometries that capitalize on brass's free-cutting nature
• Standardize Features: Use standard hole sizes and thread types for cost efficiency
• Consider Grain Structure: Brass's uniform structure allows for consistent machining in all directions
• Minimize Setups: Design parts that can be completed in single orientations when possible
• Edge Breaks: Include slight chamfers or radii on all edges for improved handling
• Tolerance Stacking: Account for thermal expansion in high-precision applications
Cost-Saving Design Strategies
• Maximize Machining Speeds: Design features that leverage brass's high-speed machining capabilities
• Material Optimization: Design parts to utilize standard brass stock sizes efficiently
• Standard Tooling: Use features compatible with common cutter sizes and types
• Finish Selection: Specify surface finishes only where functionally or aesthetically necessary
• Combine Operations: Design for simultaneous milling and turning when possible
• Family Parts: Group similar components for batch processing savings
Design for Function Considerations
• Corrosion Environments:
Specify appropriate brass alloys for specific chemical exposures
• Electrical Requirements:
Design cross-sections to meet conductivity needs
• Wear Surfaces:
Incorporate additional material for components subject to abrasion
• Assembly Interfaces:
Ensure proper clearances for press fits and threaded connections
• Thermal Considerations:
Account for brass's thermal expansion in heated applications
Even if your design doesn't follow all these guidelines, our engineers can help optimize it for manufacturing. Upload your CAD files for a free DFM analysis and online quote to see how we can bring your brass parts to life with precision and efficiency.
Why Choose Clarwe for Brass CNC Machining?
When precision brass components matter, engineers worldwide trust Clarwe for mission-critical parts. We combine cutting-edge technology with human expertise to deliver results that generic quoting platforms simply can't match. Here's what sets us apart:
Unmatched Brass Expertise
➤ Multiple Brass Alloys Available: From free-machining C360 to corrosion-resistant C464 and high-strength C485
➤ Material Experts On Staff: Get expert alloy recommendations for your specific application requirements
➤ Same-Day Quoting: Real engineers review your files and provide quotes within hours, not days
➤ Free DFM Analysis: Detailed design feedback to optimize your brass parts for cost and performance
Precision You Can Trust
➤ Tight Tolerances to ±0.015mm: Achievable with our in-house CMM inspection and quality control
➤ First-Time Quality: 99.2% on-time delivery with 100% quality inspection on all brass components
➤ ISO 9001 & AS9100 Certified: Meeting aerospace, automotive, and industrial quality standards
➤ In-House Quality Lab: Full inspection capabilities including CMM, optical comparators, and surface analysis
The Clarwe Advantage: Engineer-Led Manufacturing
➤ Unlike automated platforms, every Clarwe brass project receives personal engineering oversight from quote to delivery.
➤ Our dedicated engineers become an extension of your team, providing proactive solutions and expert guidance throughout your project.
Clarwe vs The Competition
| Capability | Clarwe | Typical Machine Shops | Online Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Support | Dedicated Engineer | Limited or Extra Cost | Automated Only |
| Quality Control | In-House QAQC Lab | Variable | Partner-Dependent |
| Material Expertise | Multiple Brass Alloys | Limited Selection | Generic Options |
| Design Feedback | Free DFM Analysis | Often Additional Cost | Basic Suggestions |
| Certifications | ISO 9001, AS9100 | Often Limited | Variable |
| Lead Time | 3-5 Day Prototyping | 1-2 Weeks | 5-7 Days |
Seamless Process, Perfect Results
➤ Online Quoting: Upload your CAD file for immediate pricing on brass components➤ Real-Time Project Tracking: Monitor your order with photo updates at every production stage
➤ Comprehensive Documentation: Receive full inspection reports and material certifications
➤ Dedicated Support: Single point of contact throughout your brass machining project
Global Capacity, Local Attention
➤ 520+ Manufacturing Partners: Global network with specialized brass machining capabilities➤ Risk-Free Sourcing: We manage quality across our entire partner network with in-house verification
➤ Scalable Production: From 1 prototype to 100,000+ production brass parts
➤ No Tooling Fees: Competitive pricing with no hidden costs for brass machining
Join thousands of engineers who have made Clarwe their trusted manufacturing partner for brass components. Experience the difference that engineer-led manufacturing makes—upload your CAD files today for a free, no-obligation quote and detailed DFM analysis tailored to brass machining.