CZ108 / CW508L - Basis Brass

CW508L / CZ108 is a 37% zinc containing brass commonly referred to as basis brass. Predominantly an alpha brass it is one of the most popular sheet and plate grades due to its hot and cold working capabilities.

CW508L / CZ108 is often used for general purpose applications and forming operations when very good bending properties are required. It also offers a very good general corrosion resistance in many natural atmospheres, a reasonable machinability and good cold heading properties.

Related Specifications

CW508L

CZ108

C27200

CuZn37

Chemical Composition

Copper                  

62.0-65.0%

Lead            

0.30% max

Zinc             

Rem

Others           

0.50% max

Key Features

  • Good hot and cold forming properties
  • Good Corrosion resistance
  • Very good cold heading attributes
  • Good strength properties

Typical Physical Properties

Melting Point  

920°C

Density

8.45 g/cm³

Specific Heat

380 J/Kg°K

Thermal conductivity (RT)

125 W/m°K

Thermal expansion coefficient (20-200°C)

21 x 10-6 / °C

Electrical conductivity

26 % IACS 

Electrical Resistivity

0.066 ohm mm2/m

Modulus of Elasticity 

103.4 GPa

Fabrication Properties

Hot Working Temperature Range

720-820°C

Hot Formability

Good

Cold Formability

Good

Cold Reduction Between Anneals

65%

Machinability rating
(free cutting brass = 100)

35 %

Annealing Temp. Range

450-650°C

Stress Relieving Temp. Range

250-350°C

 Joining Methods

Soldering                                            

Excellent                          

Brazing                                               

Excellent

Oxy-acetylene welding

Good

Gas-shielded arc welding

Fair

Resistance welding:   Spot and Seam

Fair

                               Butt

Good

Typical Uses:

The CW508L / CZ108 is used for a variety of decorative components as well as general components such as heat exchangers, lamp caps, lamp-holder and switch components, general copper-smithing work, chains, eyelets, fasteners, hinges, locks, instrument covers and blanked articles such as instrument plates and wheels. Other uses include cold headed items including pins, rivets, screws, springs, radiator tanks and torch cases.

This technical information is given by John Hood & Co.without charge and the user shall employ such information at their own discretion and risk. For more detailed technical advice on temper selection, fabrication, joining, machining, physical and mechanical data please contact us as space does not permit the listing of every feature of the material.