Copper and brass are common materials used in a variety of applications. Knowing the difference between copper and brass can be critical when choosing the right material for a project.
When it comes to laser cutting, both copper and brass require exceptional precision. Laser 24 are here to help advise on the best way to produce high quality laser cutting solutions for your projects big and small.
So, what is the difference between copper and brass? Let’s find out below.
What is copper?
Copper is one of the first metals discovered on Earth. It has been worked and utilised by man for more than 10,000 years. In 2020, the UK Government redefined the Treasure Act to include copper materials as precious, historical artifacts.
Copper is one of the very few metals that exist in their native state. This means pure copper can be found in nature, unlike most modern metals that are manufactured. Copper is extremely durable. Instead of forming rust on its surface as a reaction to oxidation, it forms a layer of protective finish called patina, meaning copper projects have an extended life expectancy.
What is copper used for?
Reddish-orange in colour, copper, and copper alloys are some of the most versatile engineering materials available. Copper can be combined with other metals to meet specific industrial needs. The combination of physical properties such as strength, conductivity, corrosion resistance and machinability, make copper suitable for a wide range of products. This includes,
- Motor parts
- Electrical Wiring
- Industrial machinery
- Copper roofing and rainwater systems
- Plumbing and piping
- Designer homeware
There is also evidence to suggest that copper has anti-bacterial properties. One study showed an 83% reduction in bacteria on the copper alloy components, when compared to the surfaces made from standard materials in a control room. More recent studies have been carried out to demonstrate the use of copper to help reduce the spread of Covid-19. Click here to see how Laser 24 worked alongside our partners to help support the nation during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Although copper is a classed as a soft metal, cutting it requires experience and precision. At Laser 24, we cut copper materials from 1mm to 12mm using the Bystronic ByStar 12kW Fiber Laser. Click here to find out more.
What is brass?
Unlike copper, brass is made up of two components, copper and zinc. The more zinc that is added in this combination, the stronger and more ductile the metal will be. If the brass has a higher concentration of copper, it will have a greater ability to work in heat. Brass also has a high level of corrosion resistance, a characteristic taken from one of its parent materials, copper.
A huge benefit of brass is, like copper, it exhibits a considerable level of electrical conductivity. However, because of the presence of zinc, brass is denser and tougher than copper so can withstand pressures caused by repetitive motions, and at the same time conducts electricity efficiently.
What is brass used for?
Brass can be found in a number of objects and machinery, including:
- Electrical components
- Marine hardware
- Musical instruments
- Tools and Keys
- Plumbing and gears
- Brass has a yellowish appearance, meaning it is often used as a substitute in ornaments and jewellery for the more expensive gold
Like copper, laser cutting brass requires experience and precision. At Laser 24, we cut brass materials from 1mm to 15mm using the Bystronic ByStar 12kW Fiber Laser. Click here to find out more.
Copper and brass are cut from the same cloth and therefore share similar characteristics. The metals can be used in different ways, so by understanding the properties of both copper and brass, you can identify which metal is better suited to your project.
Brass and copper laser cutting with Laser 24
With any metal cut at Laser 24, including copper and brass, our zero-handling process means that you get the cleanest cut possible, without any manual handling damage. Our completely controlled automated process also means we are able to control the conditions that it is cut to produce the best quality parts for your projects. Combined with our press braking services, we can easily bend copper and brass to all manners of shapes and sizes.
Do you need guidance with your next metal project? We’re one if the top laser companies in the UK, and we’d be happy to talk about our laser cutting solutions. Let us know your project requirements by calling us on 01268 733883, emailing [email protected] .
