Brass, a versatile alloy of copper and zinc, holds a significant place in various industries due to its durability, conductivity, and aesthetic appeal. For Allied Metal Recyclers, understanding the different types of brass is crucial for effective recycling and resource recovery. In this blog, we explore five common types of brass that are widely recycled today, shedding light on their properties, applications, and why recycling them is not just beneficial but also environmentally responsible.
1. Yellow Brass (Cartridge Brass)
Yellow brass, also known as cartridge brass, is one of the most common types found in everyday items. Composed of approximately 70% copper and 30% zinc, this type of brass is easily recognisable by its yellowish-gold colour. Yellow brass is widely used in plumbing fixtures, keys, gears, and ammunition casings due to its corrosion resistance and malleability.
Recycling Benefit: Recycling yellow brass reduces the need for virgin metal extraction, conserving natural resources and energy. Allied Metal Recyclers encourages individuals and businesses to recycle yellow brass to support sustainable practices.
2. Red Brass
Red brass, containing higher copper content (approximately 85%) and lower zinc content, has a reddish hue and offers superior corrosion resistance compared to yellow brass. This type of brass is commonly found in plumbing fittings, valves, and electrical connectors where durability and anti-corrosive properties are essential.
Recycling Benefit: By recycling red brass, Allied Metal Recyclers aids in reducing landfill waste and minimising the environmental impact associated with mining and processing raw materials. Every recycled red brass item contributes to resource conservation.
3. Naval Brass
Naval brass is a specialised alloy comprising 60-70% copper, 0.5-1% tin, and the remainder zinc. It is valued for its resistance to seawater corrosion, making it ideal for marine applications such as propellers, ship fittings, and naval components. Naval brass has a distinctive golden colour and is recognized for its strength and durability in harsh marine environments.
Recycling Benefit: Recycling naval brass not only supports sustainable metal recovery but also prevents the disposal of valuable materials that can be reused in various manufacturing processes. Allied Metal Recyclers encourages the recycling of naval brass to promote circular economy principles.
4. Bronze
While not strictly brass (as it primarily consists of copper and tin), bronze is closely related and often grouped with brass alloys. Bronze alloys vary widely in composition, but common types include aluminium bronze, phosphor bronze, and silicon bronze. These alloys are prized for their strength, hardness, and resistance to corrosion, making them suitable for sculptures, bearings, and musical instruments.
Recycling Benefit: Recycling bronze alloys contributes to reducing the demand for primary metals extraction and supports the sustainability goals of Allied Metal Recyclers. Each recycled bronze item conserves energy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions associated with metal production.
5. Low-Lead Brass
In recent years, there has been a shift towards using low-lead or lead-free brass alloys, especially in plumbing fixtures and fittings. These alloys comply with stricter environmental regulations concerning lead content, aiming to reduce potential health hazards associated with lead exposure.
Recycling Benefit: Allied Metal Recyclers emphasises the importance of responsibly recycling low-lead brass to prevent lead contamination and promote safer recycling practices. Recycling these alloys ensures that valuable metals are recovered and reused without compromising environmental and public health.
Why Choose Allied Metal Recyclers?
At Allied Metal Recyclers, we are committed to sustainable practices and ethical recycling of metals like brass. By choosing our services, you contribute to:
- Environmental Conservation: Reduce carbon footprint and preserve natural resources through metal recycling.
- Community Support: Promote local economy and sustainable development by recycling with a trusted partner.
- Compliance: Ensure adherence to environmental standards and regulations for responsible recycling.
Join Allied Metal Recyclers in our mission to promote sustainable metal recycling practices. Whether you have yellow brass from plumbing fixtures, red brass fittings, or bronze sculptures, every piece counts towards conserving our planet’s resources. Contact us today at (08) 6272 2000 to learn more about our services or schedule a pickup. Let’s work together towards a greener, more sustainable future through responsible brass recycling.
Remember, every recycled brass item makes a difference. Choose Allied Metal Recyclers for your recycling needs and contribute to a cleaner environment today. Together, we can make a positive impact on our world.
