Red Brass Vs Yellow Brass: Key Differences!

You may have familiarity with many metals. One of them is brass. Brass is a commonly known metal used worldwide. But do you know there are two main types of this metal? Those include red and yellow brass. There are differences between these two types. Their distinctions ignite a comparison of red brass Vs yellow brass.

 

Understanding key differences is essential before choosing any of these two. A minor negligence causes serious results. Are you confused between both? Worry not! I’ll debunk the confusion in this comprehensive guide and show their fundamental differences. After reading this, you’ll be able to make informed decisions. So, let’s get started! 

 

Overview of Red Brass & Yellow Brass 

Both red and yellow brass are alloys of the same metals (copper & zinc). But what sets them apart is the quantity of those metals. For example, red metal comprises 80-85% copper and 5% zinc. Conversely, yellow brass includes 60-70% copper and 30-40% zinc. 

 

This difference in composition makes their usability different. Both serve differently in various fields. For instance, red brass is more corrosion-resistant due to the higher amount of copper. Therefore, it is used to form marine vessels’ body parts. However, yellow brass has a low quantity of copper. 

 

This meagerness makes it malleable and used to form wires and sheets. Moreover, red brass contains small amounts of other metals, such as tin and lead. As you know, tin and lead are matchless in their strength. Hence, their presence makes red brass a strong alloy. 

 

This strength of red brass is advantageous in many ways. However, it makes red fabrication a bit tedious. The CNC machining of this brass type is generally not very smooth due to exceptional strength. On the other hand, yellow brass has zero quantity of those extra metals. Therefore, it is less potent comparatively. 

 

Hence, its CNC milling procedure is very straightforward. When the milling procedure is easy, it is effortless to create various designs. Thus, yellow brass is popular in architectural and decorative pieces. Moreover, one thing I like about yellow brass is its cost-effectiveness and versatility. 

 

Key Differences Between Red Brass and Yellow Brass 

Do you still think that both yellow and red brass are the same? If yes, you are wrong. There are obvious contrasts between both. Want to identify those differences?  Fret not! I will unlock all the secrets that isolate them in the section below. 

 

1- Strength and Durability

 

Both yellow and red brass vary in terms of strength and durability. Red brass, in this regard, defeats the yellow brass. It is more tensile, which signifies it can withstand all pressures. What is the reason behind this extraordinary strength? During its manufacturing, a small amount of lead and tin is added. 

 

That amount is 10% of the total composition. This 10% makes red brass stronger than yellow brass. Moreover, red brass’s density is higher, enhancing its thickness and weight. However, yellow brass is a pure combination of zinc and copper. These two metals make it lightweight and brittle. Hence, it cannot tolerate high pressure. 

 

But its delicate nature doesn’t limit its functionality. You can still get the advantage of its flexibility. It has sufficient strength to stretch it and is used for making wires. Moreover, its strength is enough if you are an architect. Because it offers you both flexibility and a finer nature.  

 

2- Electrical Conductivity

 

Electrical conductivity determines how much a metal can effectively conduct electricity. If we discuss yellow and red brass, red brass is a good conductor of electricity. The reason is the large quantity of copper. We know that copper is famous worldwide for the formation of electrical wires. 

 

As I mentioned above, red brass contains about 85% copper. Its excellent conductivity makes it ideal for electrical appliances. One plus point of red brass wires is that they are less expensive than pure copper. Therefore, you can use them for large wiring projects. 

 

On the flip side, yellow brass contains a maximum of 70% of copper. This means that it is not as good a conductor as red brass. The reason is the presence of a large quality of zinc. This zinc leads to dezincification. This means moisture will destroy zinc if yellow brass is used for wiring. Therefore, it affects its overall electrical conductivity. 

 

3- Corrosion Resistance

 

Corrosion resistance is another factor that differentiates both types of brass. For example, yellow brass cannot resist corrosion effectively. Why? Because it has a massive amount of zinc. When it is exposed to any harsh environment, it shows dezincification. Dezincification is a process of zinc peeling, especially when exposed to moisture. 

 

This process deteriorates the remaining components very quickly. Therefore, yellow brass-made things are best used indoors. In contrast, red brass stands out in corrosion-resistance performance. HOW? The reason lies in the quantity of copper. When copper is exposed to moisture, it forms an oxide layer. 

 

This layer acts as a protective shield and prevents further corrosion attacks. Moreover, lead and tin also contribute to corrosion resistance ability. Even red brass can combat harsh salty environments. Therefore, it is ideally used in marine industries. 

 

4- Magnetic Behavior

 

Magnetic behavior shows how a metal acts when exposed to an external magnetic field. Both types of brass are made of copper, which is paramagnetic. This means it is weakly attracted to the magnetic field. So, the amount of copper determines the magnetic behavior of these brass types. 

 

Red brass has a significant amount of copper. So, it is slightly attracted to the magnetic field. But when the magnetic field is removed, it becomes completely non-magnetic. Hence, red brass mainly shows non-magnetic properties. On the other hand, yellow brass contains less copper. This makes it an even more non-magnetic solid. 

 

Lastly, both red and yellow brass are non-magnetic. The slight difference in magnetic properties is due to the composition of brass. The high amount of copper in red brass makes it slightly magnetic. However, that magnetic behavior is short-term and very weak. So, both types are used in fields with functional non-magnetic properties. 

 

5- Common Applications

 

As I said, yellow and red brass vary slightly in composition, leading to varied applications. For example, red brass is used in the boat’s body due to its greater corrosion resistance. Moreover, it is superior in its durability. It is used in plumbing and pipe formation. Not to forget, its excellent electrical conductivity makes it ideal for use in wires.

 

On the flip side, yellow brass is commonly used in decoration pieces. As you know, it is lightweight and delicate; hence, it is used in musical instruments. Moreover, yellow brass contains a handsome amount of zinc. Zinc is well-known for its shining and fine quality, so it is used in jewelry.  

 

6- Cost and Affordability 

 

Cost is a significant concern when initiating any business with these metals. Yellow and red brass have definite contrasts regarding cost. For instance, red brass is relatively expensive. WHY? Because it has a considerable copper content. At the same time, copper is readily available due to its tough mining. 

 

Moreover, the production process of red brass also justifies its higher cost. The mixing and melting process is challenging. Apart from this, red brass promises long-term durability. Hence, there is a significant demand in the market, which further increases its cost.

 

However, yellow brass is a cost-effective metal. It has less quantity of copper and is easy to produce. Moreover, due to its compromising durability, it has less demand in the market. All these factors contribute to making it cost-friendly. 

 

Which is Better: Red Brass or Yellow Brass?

Both types of metals are distinct in their own way. However, ultimately, it depends on your preferences. For example, if you are seeking durability and longevity, red brass is a reliable option. However, yellow brass suits you best if you are eager for flexibility and savings.

 

However,  knowing every aspect of both types is crucial before choosing. Red brass is corrosion-free. Its thickness enhances its durability. Therefore, you can use it for long-term projects. Moreover, the wires made of red brass are more secure and rust-free in moisture. 

 

But its higher cost may force you to think again before buying. 

 

Conversely, if you are budget-conscious, yellow brass is a cost-effective option. Moreover, it has higher malleable properties, which can help you handle it. However, due to less copper, it is more prone to corrosion. Therefore, yellow brass will require double the maintenance cost.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Does red brass oxidize?

Yes, when red brass is exposed to oxygen, it gets oxidized. However, due to the higher content of copper, it forms an oxide layer. This layer protects it from corrosion. 

 

What is worth more, red or yellow brass?

In my recommendation, red is worth more than yellow brass. The reason is that red brass has higher tensile strength and can withstand high pressure. It has higher durability and lasts for a long time. 

 

What is another name for red brass?

Another name for red brass is gunmetal or 85-5-5-5. Gunmetal is named due to its red appearance. The second name is due to the quantity of copper, tin, zinc, and lead elements. 

 

Conclusion 

 

I have debated every angle of yellow and red brass in this article. For example, red brass is a strong alloy due to the massive quantity of copper. It cannot easily be attacked by corrosion due to the formation of an oxide layer. Moreover, it is used in marine industries, automobile bodies, and wiring.

 

On the flip side, yellow brass is less strong comparatively. It has a large quantity of zinc, which is a delicate material. Moreover, it cannot resist corrosion in harsh environments. Therefore, it is used for decoration purposes. However, it is helpful in terms of prices.