Which is better, brass or copper? When a customer calls us asking that question, our answer
is usually, “It depends.” There’s no type of metal or alloy that is inherently better than any other,
but each one has its own particular strengths and weaknesses, which means some are better
suited to certain applications than others. Once we understand the type of strength you’re
looking for, corrosion resistance, conductivity, and color, we can help you choose the right
material for your needs.
Understanding Brass
Brass is not an elemental metal that can be mined; instead, it must be created. This is key to
understanding its properties. Brass is an alloy that is made with copper—in its simplest form,
brass is a combination of copper and zinc. As the amount of copper is increased or decreased,
it changes the characteristics of the resulting alloy. For example, if you’re after an exceptionally
strong material for your application, you’ll want to have at least 39 percent zinc in your brass.
Once you add more elements to the mix, things get even more interesting. Iron, lead, aluminum,
manganese, and tin are all elements that are commonly found in brass, giving it different colors
and characteristics. Brass products can come in a wide range of colors, strengths, and qualities.
Understanding Copper
If brass is an alloy, copper is an element, right? It’s complicated.
Copper is an element that is mined from the earth, unlike brass. That said, for industrial and
commercial purposes, copper is rarely used in its natural form. Instead, copper alloys are used.
We combine copper with other elements to change or enhance its natural characteristics.
There are many applications where copper is a top choice. For medical devices and fixtures
like faucets, copper may be chosen because it is antimicrobial. The electronics industry chooses
copper for its thermal and electrical conductivity. Copper alloys can be strong and resistant to
corrosion. And, of course, copper is commonly used in jewelry, architecture, and sculpture because
of its signature hue.
Which Is Better for My Application, Brass or Copper?
As you might have guessed from the introduction to this post, there’s really no universal answer
to the question of whether brass or copper is better. Not only do all applications have all different
needs, because brass and copper are both alloys, it’s like comparing apples to oranges unless
you know the specific alloys you’re looking at.
One brass alloy could be more ductile than a certain copper alloy; compare two different copper
and brass alloys and you might have the opposite outcome. You can see how this can get
complicated! Unless you’re very familiar with the wide range of alloys available, it’s difficult to
research the answer on your own.
The benefit of working with Atlas Bronze is that we’re experts when it comes to metals. We take
the time to listen to what it is that you need and learn about your application, then present to you
the best choices to meet your specifications.
Learn More About Copper and Brass
Are you choosing between copper and brass for your application? Our knowledgeable sales team
is here to help you with all of your purchasing decisions. Contact us at 1-800-478-0887 to speak
with one of our experts and get started.
