C85700 is a copper alloy belonging to the leaded yellow brass family. It's known for its excellent
machinability, good appearance, and fair strength. The presence of lead significantly improves
machinability, making it suitable for applications requiring intricate details. However, due to
environmental and health concerns, its use might be limited.
Table: Key Properties of C85700
| Property |
Description |
| Chemical Composition |
- Primarily Copper (Cu): Minimum 58% <br> - Lead (Pb): Up to 3% <br> - Zinc (Zn):
32-39% <br> - Other (Fe, Sn, etc.): Trace amounts
|
| Mechanical Properties |
- Good machinability due to lead content <br> - Good for decorative applications due to
pleasing color <br> - Fair strength and corrosion resistance
|
| Common Brands (By Country) |
- Europe: CuZn39Pb3 [Europe] <br> - US: Leaded Yellow Brass |
Important Note: Due to the lead content, regulations and availability of C85700 might be
limited. Consult with suppliers regarding lead content compliance for your specific application.
Common Questions and Answers:
What are the typical applications of C85700?
C85700 finds use in various industries due to its good machinability and aesthetics:
Architectural trim: Door handles, doorknobs, and other decorative hardware can be made from
C85700 due to its good machinability and pleasing golden color.
Musical instruments: Certain musical instrument parts can benefit from C85700's
machinability and workability.
Plumbing components: While regulations might restrict its use in some areas, C85700 was
traditionally used for some plumbing components due to its machinability and color.
What are the limitations of using C85700?
The main limitations of C85700 are:
High lead content: Lead is a health hazard during machining and limits applications in some
industries due to environmental regulations. Due to the high lead content, regulations and availability
might be limited.
Fair strength and corrosion resistance: C85700 is not ideal for applications requiring high
strength or exposure to harsh environments.
Are there lead-free alternatives to C85700?
Lead-free alternatives can be considered depending on the specific application requirements. Here are some
options:
C26000 (Cartridge Brass): Offers good machinability and a similar appearance but with lower
zinc content, influencing the color slightly.
C93700 (Leaded Tin Bronze): While not a direct replacement aesthetically, it offers good
machinability and wear resistance without lead for applications requiring those properties.
Important Note: Regulations on lead usage can influence the availability of C85700. Lead
content should also be a factor when choosing a material. Always consult with a material engineer or
supplier to identify the most suitable copper alloy for your specific application considering factors like
machinability, aesthetics, strength, corrosion resistance, regulatory compliance, and cost.
