Brass vs. Copper: Key Differences and How to Choose the Right Material

To make things work properly, you must select their components precisely. In machinery, many times people get confused between copper and brass. To be honest, this confusion is obvious, but this guide will help you solve this confusion. As we have found many questions regarding copper and brass, we thought of writing a blog that offers assistance.

Let’s solve the confusion between copper and brass and learn about their key differences.

Copper

Now, let’s explore more about its traits.

• Conductivity: Apart from silver, copper is one of the perfect conductors for electricity. Hence, making it the best for use for various purposes.
• Corrosion resistance: Copper not only offers strength, but it also creates ways to save itself when exposed to certain things. It creates a layer of patine that is a greenish-blue film that protects it from oxidation.
• Malleability and ductility: Copper is highly malleable and ductile, and hence it is a perfect choice when you want to mold it into different shapes. Due to this trait, it is used widely in electrical components.
• Antibacterial properties: As per the name, you might have guessed that copper has antibacterial properties, which makes it perfect for medical usage. These properties are highly effective when killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

Standards Uses of Copper

• Antimicrobial applications
• Industrial machinery and equipment
• Construction
• Renewable energy systems
• Batteries

Brass

Brass is made from two metals copper and Zinc. It appears like a yellow-gold finish. You will be shocked when we tell you that the amount of copper you add to brass can make different brass types. Let’s learn more about how brass is different from copper as per the traits.

• Delightful appearance: As it has a gold finish, brass becomes the perfect choice when you want metal for decoration and interior functions.
• Corrosion resistance: Brass is perfect when you are searching for metal that is corrosion resistant. But also note that it depends on how much zinc you add.
• Strength and durability: If you want strength in your machinery, then you must select brass. It offers strength you won’t find in any other metals.
• Acoustic properties: Not only these, but brass also offers acoustic qualities and is used in many musical instruments.

Standard uses of Brass

• Decorative items
• Musical instruments
• Plumbing fitting
• Mechanical parts
• Lock and keys

As we have read a bit about brass and copper, now read the key differences.

• Composition: Now, we all know that copper is made of no combination and is pure metal, whereas brass is made of two metals, copper and zinc.
• Color: Copper with a reddish-brown color doesn’t have a distinguished appearance, whereas brass has a distinguished appearance with a yellow-gold finish.
• Strength and durability: If you’re someone who wants metal that is strong then you must choose brass. As brass is made of two metals it offers more strength.
• Conductivity: If you are searching for a metal that has electrical conductivity then you must select copper. Copper is the best conductor for electricity and hence perfect for electrical usage.
• Workability: Copper is perfect when you want to use it for different shapes. Whereas brass won’t offer the same flexibility.
• Cost: Brass won’t harm your budget and is affordable whereas copper is quite an expensive one.

Confused between Copper and Brass?

• Electrical applications: If you’re searching for metals with high conductivity then copper can be the best option. As it can manage electrical conductivity it can be perfect for wiring and electronic usage.
• Durability and strength: While selecting metals if you’re searching for strength then choose brass as it offers durability and strength.
• Aesthetics: We all know who will win this race! Yes, you guessed it right brass is perfect for aesthetics.
• Plumbing: Here, also brass is used more because of its strength.
• Health consideration: As we discussed about copper and its antibacterial trait, copper becomes the perfect metal when it comes to health usage.

Conclusion

We hope that this guide has cleared your doubts regarding brass and copper and which one is best suitable as per your different needs. If you’re still confused about anything feel free to drop us a message.