What is C21000 brass?
C21000 copper alloy is a brass-type alloy based on copper, with zinc as the main alloying element. It belongs to the medium-to-high zinc content α+β duplex brass category. Its chemical composition typically consists of approximately 60%-63% copper (Cu), 36%-39% zinc (Zn), along with trace amounts of elements such as lead (Pb) and iron (Fe) to optimize performance. This compositional design grants C21000 good comprehensive mechanical properties and processing characteristics.
Performance Characteristics of C21000 Copper Alloy
C21000 copper alloy combines high strength with excellent ductility. Its tensile strength can reach 400-500 MPa, with an elongation exceeding 10%, making it suitable for both cold and hot working processes. It exhibits prominent corrosion resistance in both freshwater and marine environments, with a strong resistance to stress corrosion cracking. Additionally, this alloy offers moderate electrical conductivity (approximately 27% IACS), good thermal conductivity, and relatively good machinability. It can form a dense oxide film on its surface, further enhancing its corrosion resistance.
Typical Application Scenarios for C21000 Copper Alloy
Plumbing Systems: Widely used for manufacturing valves, pipe fittings, and pump bodies, benefiting from its resistance to seawater corrosion and dezincification.
Mechanical Manufacturing: Suitable for wear-resistant components such as gears, bearings, and nuts, where its high strength and toughness meet dynamic load requirements.
Architectural Decoration: Commonly used for door/window hardware, sculptures, and decorative panels. Its surface can be polished or coated, offering a balance of aesthetics and durability.
Electrical Field: Serves as a material for conductive connectors or terminals, balancing conductivity with cost-effectiveness.
Processing and Heat Treatment of C21000 Copper Alloy
C21000 can be formed through processes such as casting, forging, and extrusion. After cold working, annealing treatment (e.g., holding at 550-650°C followed by slow cooling) is required to relieve internal stresses and restore plasticity. For welding, methods like TIG or gas welding are recommended, with controlled heat input to avoid cracking. This alloy can be used directly without complex heat treatment, resulting in low maintenance costs, making it a cost-effective choice in industrial fields.
C21000 Copper Alloy Material Specifications
Copper Rod Specifications: Φ3 mm ~ Φ150 mm x 2500 mm
Copper Plate Specifications: T0.5 mm ~ T20 mm
Copper Strip Specifications: T0.1 mm ~ T2.0 mm
C21000 vs. C26000 (Cartridge Brass)
| Property | C21000 (Gilding Metal) | C26000 (Cartridge Brass) | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composition | ~95% Cu, ~5% Zn | ~70% Cu, ~30% Zn | C21000 has significantly higher copper content. |
| Color | Rich, warm red-gold | Bright yellow | C21000 has a more reddish, "precious" metal appearance. |
| Mechanical | Lower strength, excellent ductility | Higher strength and hardness, work-hardenable | C26000 is stronger; C21000 is more formable. |
| Conductivity | Higher (electrical & thermal) | Lower | C21000 is better for electrical/thermal applications. |
| Corrosion Resistance | Good, but can dezincify in harsh environments | Good, but more prone to dezincification than C21000 | C21000 generally has slightly better corrosion resistance. |
| Primary Uses | Jewelry, architectural trim, decorative items, electrical contacts | Cartridge cases, automotive parts, fasteners, springs, general hardware | C21000 for aesthetics/formability; C26000 for strength/cost. |
| Cost | Higher (due to high copper content) | Lower | C26000 is more cost-effective for high-volume parts. |
How to Choose:
Choose C21000 when you need: Superior formability (deep drawing, intricate shaping), a distinctive warm golden color for decorative purposes, or better electrical/thermal conductivity.
Choose C26000 when you need: Higher strength and hardness, good machinability for mechanical parts, or a lower-cost solution for high-volume production where the bright yellow color is acceptable.
Our factory
Our factory is a modern, specialized manufacturer of copper and copper alloy products with over 19 years of experience. We integrate R&D, production, and sales into one seamless operation. Equipped with advanced production lines-including continuous casting and rolling, precision drawing, cold rolling, and automated finishing equipment-we strictly adhere to the ISO 9001 quality management system and international standards such as ASTM and EN. We focus on producing high-quality copper tubes, sheets, plates, rods, wires, and strips.
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Copper product packaging
We are committed to providing safe and efficient end-to-end logistics support for every order you place. Upon completion of production, all products are professionally and custom-packaged according to their shape and transportation requirements: copper tubes are lined with moisture-proof padding and secured in reinforced wooden cases or heavy-duty steel strapping; sheets and strips are sealed with waterproof stretch film and fixed on reinforced wooden pallets, with corner protectors added to the edges; wires and rods are bundled and coated with anti-rust protection. All packaging meets export standards and can withstand long-distance sea freight and complex land transportation. We offer a variety of trade terms, including EXW, FOB, and CIF, and collaborate with multiple international logistics companies to arrange door-to-door delivery and provide real-time shipment tracking, ensuring your goods arrive at your designated destination on time and in perfect condition.
