C48500

C48500 is a high-leaded naval brass alloy with excellent corrosion resistance, good machinability, and high mechanical strength. It contains significant amounts of lead and tin, which improve machinability and corrosion resistance, respectively. This alloy is commonly used in marine hardware, valve stems, screw machine products, and industrial applications that require durability and resistance to wear and stress corrosion.

Chemical Composition

• Copper (Cu): 59.0 – 62.0%

• Zinc (Zn): Remainder (~37.5%)

• Lead (Pb): 1.3 – 2.2%

• Tin (Sn): 0.5 – 1.0%

• Iron (Fe): Up to 0.1%

• Other impurities: Up to 0.4%

Mechanical Properties

• Tensile Strength (UTS): Approximately 370 – 415 MPa range

• Yield Strength: Approximately 170 – 185 MPa

• Elongation: 12 – 20%

• Hardness: 60 – 85 HRB depending on form

Physical Properties

• Density: Approximately 8.44 g/cm³

• Melting Range: Solidus ~1630°F (888°C), Liquidus ~1650°F (899°C)

• Electrical Conductivity: About 26% IACS

• Thermal Conductivity: Around 67 BTU/(ft²·hr·°F)

• Coefficient of Thermal Expansion: 11.8 × 10⁻⁶ per °F

Fabrication and Applications

• Excellent hot forgeability and pressing performance

• Poor cold workability due to high lead content

• Excellent machinability, often used in machining industries

• Joining by soldering is excellent; brazing is good; welding is not recommended

• Commonly used for fasteners, pump parts, valve stems, and marine hardware