Physical and Mechanical Properties of H96 Brass

H96 brass is a category of copper-zinc alloy. Its strength is higher than that of pure copper, but it is the lowest among common brass alloys.

Color: Typically exhibits a distinctive reddish-gold color due to its high copper content (≈96%).

Density: Approximately 8.8 g/cm³.

Melting Point: Ranges from ~1050 - 1080°C.

Electrical Conductivity: Excellent, typically about 44% IACS (International Annealed Copper Standard), which is the highest among common brass alloys.

Thermal Conductivity: Very good, approximately 160 W/(m·K) at 20°C.

Strength: Higher than pure copper, but the lowest among standard brass grades.

Ductility and Formability: Excellent. It is easily formed by both cold and hot working, and is suitable for processes such as forging, welding, and soldering. It has no susceptibility to stress corrosion cracking.

Tensile Strength and Elongation:

Tensile Strength (σb): ≥ 275 MPa

Elongation (δ10): ≥ 45%

It possesses good overall workability and is easily formed by cold and hot methods. It can be processed into various shapes via forging, cold drawing, rolling, etc., making it suitable for complex and precision machining. However, its machinability rating is relatively low (≈20% compared to free-cutting brass C36000) due to its gummy nature.

H96 brass exhibits excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, which are the highest among all common brass alloys. Its electrical conductivity (≈44% IACS) and thermal conductivity (≈160 W/(m·K)) make it ideal for applications requiring efficient heat dissipation or electrical current transfer, serving as a cost-effective alternative to pure copper in many such cases.

It demonstrates high resistance to corrosion in atmospheric conditions and fresh water. Its high copper content (above 85%) also provides very good resistance to dezincification. However, for use in harsh environments (e.g., acidic conditions, seawater, or high-temperature steam), more specialized alloys like aluminum brass or copper-nickel are recommended.

Electrical & Electronic Equipment: Widely used for elastic components (springs, contacts), lead frames for integrated circuits, and other parts requiring good conductivity and spring properties.

Mechanical Manufacturing: Commonly used for mechanical components, valves, pipes, bolts, and parts requiring high precision due to its excellent formability.

Communications & Microwave Technology: Applied in the manufacturing of components like double-ridge rectangular waveguides (used in communications, microwave transmission, and electronic countermeasures) because its excellent plasticity and good conductivity suit the required fabrication processes.