Are you wondering about what copper-based alloy you should select for making ornamental products at your manufacturing plant? Read on and discover why you should select brass instead of other alloys.

Hygiene

Your products are likely to be popular among your clients due to the ability of brass to inhibit the growth of microorganisms on the surface of the ornaments. The high copper content in brass causes this material to have anti-microbial properties. Buyers will therefore have no qualms about having those ornaments around kids and pets.

Ease of Joining

Copper alloys, such as brass, can be joined easily using any available method. Friction welding, soldering, riveting, silver brazing and adhesives can all be used to join brass components. You will therefore be free to alternate between the different joining methods available in order to cost-effectively create effective bonds. This will increase the competitiveness of your products on the market.

Corrosion Resistance

Brass develops a green patina when it is exposed to the elements. This patina protects the metal from corrosion. Consequently, your clients will not have to incur the ongoing cost of applying coatings on the ornaments in order to shield the product from corrosion. This affordable total cost of ownership makes brass ornaments attractive to buyers.

Ductility and Formability

Brass is very easy to machine and form due to its high copper content. Thus, it will be easy for you to form it into any desired shape in order to produce unique ornaments. Your tools will also last longer if you use them on brass. This is in contrast to the shorter lifespan of the tools that are used on less ductile materials, such as high-strength steel. Longer tool life will translate into lower costs of production.

Wear Resistance

Brass normally has some lead in it. This lead content lubricates the alloy so that it can withstand wear that is caused by abrasion. Consequently, the brass ornaments that you make will be very durable. Furthermore, brass doesn't spark. This prevents the ornaments from developing burn marks during the fabrication process. The products can also be used in hazardous environments due to this spark resistance.

As you can see, brass offers many advantages to someone who wants to make ornaments. However, you need to talk to a copper alloy expert so that he or she can advise you about the best combination of elements in order to achieve optimum results for your specific application.