20 feb 2023
Ductility, rust resistance and quality over time
There are many differences between the main metals with which the fittings of the plants of which we are suppliers are made. Our production of brass nuts and fittings is aimed at heating systems, civil and industrial hydraulics, the world of gas, valves, taps, refrigeration through a noble metal, brass. But what are its peculiarities and what makes it the perfect metal for the fittings are the questions we would like to answer. It is known that the most used metals in the above mentioned areas are brass, copper and steel. Among these, two are often confused by an inexperienced eye, namely brass and copper: however, they have very different characteristics and advantages.
First of all brass is a copper alloy composed of a given zinc content. It can also be a combination of tin, iron, aluminum, lead, silicon and manganese, the presence of which, depending on the quantity, guarantees a number of characteristics. For example, the zinc content of brass helps to increase its ductility and strength. The higher the zinc concentration of brass, the greater the flexibility and strength of the mechanical type. Also for these reasons the brass elements and fittings find a wide range of applications.
Another great advantage of brass is its resistance to rust. For this reason, our fittings are required by the taps, heating and plumbing industry, in the form of shanks, T-joints, finned nuts, rings and connections of various types. This low predisposition to develop rust is, together with the perfect thread of the piece, an essential characteristic for multinationals served by the Dall'Era Valerio.
In examining the advantages guaranteed by brass, we find the ability to remain functional for a long time without having to undergo massive repairs or maintenance. Yield strength is normally considered to be the maximum stress at which a material begins deformation permanently. In the comparison between brass and copper, brass has a higher yield strength than the latter.
Brass is also a material that can be cut and worked in detail. The high machinability allows applications that require a high level of formability. This feature guarantees our brass fittings to take many shapes, which can be made to customer’s design.
Choosing the right type of metal for a specific application is crucial. When it comes to designing and producing high quality products or parts that meet the requirements of durability and reliability, brass allows maximum yield. In the design of a machine, the importance of electronic parts is often highlighted, but even the components need a lot of attention. Small components can create inefficiencies that can reduce the performance of an entire machine or even stop its operation. Same problem for a plant. Again a small component can cause big problems. The choice of the nut or the brass fitting or other material becomes more than important.