Brass reference / Lead-free brass
Bismuth brass
Bismuth replaces lead as the chip breaker, so it behaves closest to C360 on an existing C360 program.
Also known as Federalloy, Eco brass alternative, Bi brass. Published typical values for the alloy, never a promise from a shop.
80Machinability, C360 = 100
under 0.25%Lead, under the 0.25% line
ModerateDezincification resistance
380 to 480 MPaTypical tensile strength
Composition
| Element | Nominal weight % |
|---|---|
| Copper | 73.0 to 79.0 |
| Bismuth | 1.5 to 2.5 |
| Lead | 0.25 max |
| Zinc | remainder |
Properties
- UNSC49300 / C49350
- EN equivalentNo single EN equivalent, see supplier spec
- Hardness65 to 85 HRB
- Density8.40 g/cm3
- Typical tolerance±0.02 mm typical
- Common formsRound and hex bar, limited diameters
What it is for, and what it is not
Specify it for
- Converting an existing C360 part to lead-free with minimal process change
- Potable water parts where C69300 strength is not needed
- Shops that want the nearest drop-in replacement for C360
Do not specify it for
- Parts needing high strength, where C69300 is better
- Unusual bar diameters, because stock availability is thinner
- Welded assemblies, bismuth brass has poor weldability
- Highly stressed parts without a stress relief step
What a buyer should know
Bismuth acts as a solid lubricant and chip breaker much as lead does, without the toxicity, which is why this is the closest thing to a drop-in replacement for C360. Two cautions: bar stock is held less widely and costs more, and bismuth particle growth during solidification can leave high residual stress, which raises stress corrosion risk on a cold worked part.
Closest alternatives
| Alloy | Lead % | Mach. | DZR | Why you might switch |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C377 forging brassC37700 | 1.5 to 2.5 | 80 | Poor | Hot forged to a near net shape then machined only where a sealing face or thread requires it. |
| C69300 silicon brassC69300 | under 0.09 | 80 | High | The usual lead-free answer for potable water, roughly twice as strong as C360 and highly dezincification resistant. |
| CW602N DZR brassNo direct UNS equivalent | 1.7 to 2.8 | 80 | High | A leaded brass with an arsenic addition and a controlled heat treatment, developed for European water fittings. |
Need a shop that runs Bismuth?
Send the drawing and we match it with up to 3 shops that turn brass. Free for buyers, reply within 24 business hours.