It is in principle possible to process metals and metal alloys, which have a similar strength to aluminum. These include in particular the non-ferrous metals, i.e. those metals or alloys whose elemental forms or ores form a specific color (without precious metals).

Brass is a gold-colored alloy of copper and zinc. Brass is somewhat harder than pure copper (see the next section), but not as hard as bronze (a copper-tin alloy, see the section after the next). In contrast to steel and aluminum alloys, brass cannot be hardened by heat treatment. Its strength is only controllable by choosing an appropriate alloy and mechanical deformation (rolling, forging or cold drawing).

We offer brass panels in thicknesses of 2, 3 and 4 mm. The surface of brass is softer than the surface of anodized aluminum, therefore considerable effort is required during the processing and treatment of brass to avoid scratches. For this reason unpolished brass plates are processed as a matter of principle. We can arrange for subsequent polishing by a galvanizing company if required.

Depending on the requirements, the resulting processing times for brass deviate significantly from our standard production service, which is why we always prepare a special offer for projects with brass plates.

Minimum and maximum processing areas of brass panels

Copper as a relatively soft metal is easily malleable and comparatively tough. As an excellent conductor of heat and electricity it is extremely versatile. It also belongs to the category of coinage metals. As a low-reactive heavy metal, copper is one of the precious metals.

As pure copper cannot be milled without burrs, we use copper with appropriate alloy components.

Bronze is an alloy of copper and tin, with no or only very small amounts of other elements, which can be divided into wrought alloys (up to 10% tin content) and casting alloys (up to 22% tin content). The average density of bronze is 8.75 g/cm³ and is therefore more than three times higher than that of aluminum.

The alloy should be selected taking the application into account. Please contact us if you plan to use bronze.

Please contact us for a test milling of metals that are not listed here, or for special alloys of the types listed. We would be happy to extend this list of machinable metals.