Which is Better for Electrical Applications: Brass Rod or Copper Rod?

Making decisions always proves difficult and when it comes to machinery, they are a bit more difficult than our usual decisions. Your one choice can make or break the whole machine. That is why it is always a wise decision to take proper time, gain knowledge, and then make your decisions. Sneh Metals assists you with your brass choices with various useful blog posts. You can scroll down our blog page and get ideas about which pipes you should opt for corrosion resistance, how you can protect your ETP copper flats, etc.

Sneh Metals is a leading manufacturer, supplier and exporter of extruded profiles in non-ferrous metals. We assist our clients with all kinds of brass metals, rods, and square ingots. As well as we can also customize as per our clients’ requirements.

Which rod should you opt for, a brass rod or a copper rod, for your electrical applications?

Finding the right rod for your electrical applications is a crucial step in your process. However, it is obvious that you don’t have all the knowledge; hence, this blog helps you in finding which one is right for you.

What is a brass rod?

If you want a rod that is durable, corrosion-resistant, and offers high machinability, then a brass rod is the perfect option to opt for. The brass rod is made of copper and zinc alloy. Additionally, its properties vary depending on the other materials, such as lead or tin. Compared to copper, brass rods are more rigid.

What is a copper rod?

Copper is known worldwide for its electrical and thermal conductivity. It is made from pure copper, and because of its conductivity, it is used widely in power generation, transmission lines, electrical motors, and switchgears.

Now, let’s compare brass rods and copper rods.

Here are some key factors in which copper rods and brass rods differ from each other.

Electrical Conductivity

• Brass: Brass won’t stand strong when it comes to electrical conductivity, as it is made of two components. For the same reason, the brass rod’s conductivity ranges from 25% to 40% ICAS.
• Copper: As mentioned above, copper rods are the best suited when you want to take electrical conductivity into consideration. Its electrical conductivity rating is about 100% ICAS.

Hence, it proves that if you want a rod for your electrical applications, then copper rods are the perfect option you must choose.

Mechanical Strength

• Brass: Brass is durable when it comes to higher mechanical strength and hardness. Hence, it is more preferable for mechanical applications that require holding their shape under pressure or wear.
• Copper: As copper is a pure metal, it is comparatively soft and flexible; hence, it is not suited for mechanical strength. However, it is useful in wiring.

Corrosion Resistance

• Brass: If you are opting for an application in a humid or marine environment, then brass offers a higher level of corrosion resistance. Additionally, if you alloy it properly, then it is also more resistant to dezincification.
• Copper: Copper also has corrosion resistance qualities in dry and clean environments. But after a while, it can oxidize and create a green patina layer.

Machinability and Fabrication

• Brass: Brass is one of the few materials that offer easy machinability, drilling and cutting. Hence, brass rods are ideal for high-precision electrical components.
• Copper: In comparison to brass, copper tends to be difficult for machining. It is extra soft, sticks to tools, and forms burrs, which is not a good thing for copper rods when it comes to machinability.

Cost and Availability

• Brass: As we all know, brass is not a pure metal; hence, it is not as expensive as copper.
• Copper: Copper is a pure metal and hence it is expensive as well as its price is subject to global markets.

Environmental Concerns and Safety

• Brass: Brass is a recyclable material and ensures sustainability. When it comes to safety, brass contains a bit of lead, which is why it needs to be monitored.
• Copper: Copper is fully recyclable and non-sparkling as well as non-magnetic. Hence, it is perfect for explosive environments.

Brass rods and copper rods are both important when it comes to different traits. However, it totally depends on your requirement, budget, and application.

Why should you choose Sneh Metals for all your brass rod and copper rod requirements?

Sneh Metals has been in the industry for a longer period of time. As well as we offer customization options as per specific client requirements and ensure that they are satisfied with the outcome. Hence, you can trust us with your brass rod and copper rod requirements and for any customization too.

Conclusion

Choosing the right rod for your electrical application is a bit too much, but you can make it simpler with this guide. We have shared everything that assists you in finding the right rod for your electrical applications. If you still get confused, you can reach out to Sneh Metals, and we will assist you thoroughly.