Brass is a . It is used for decoration for its bright gold-like appearance; for applications where low is required such as locks, gears, bearings, doorknobs, ammunition, and valves; for plumbing and electrical applications; and extensively in such as horns and bells for its acoustic properties. It is also used in . Because it is softer than most other metals in general use, brass is often used in situations where it is important that sparks not be struck, as in fittings and tools around explosive gases.
Brass has a muted yellow color which is somewhat similar to . It is relatively resistant to , and is often used as decoration and for coins. In antiquity, polished brass was often used as a mirror.
Properties:
Brass has higher malleability than bronze or zinc. The relatively low of brass and its flow characteristics make it a relatively easy material to cast. By varying the proportions of copper and zinc, the properties of the brass can be changed, allowing hard and soft brasses.
Today almost 90% of all brass alloys are recycled. Because brass is not , it can be separated from ferrous scrap by passing the scrap near a powerful magnet. Brass scrap is collected and transported to the foundry.
Aluminum makes brass stronger and more corrosion resistant. Aluminum also causes a hard layer to be formed on the surface that is thin, transparent and self healing.
