Copper, Brass and Bronze, otherwise known as the “Red Metals”, may look the same initially but are actually quite different.

 

Copper
Copper is a chemical element with the symbol Cu (from Latin: cuprum) and atomic number 29, A freshly exposed surface of pure copper has a pinkish-orange color. Copper is used in a wide range of products due to its excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, good strength, good formability and resistance to corrosion. Pipe and pipe fittings are commonly manufactured from these metals due to their corrosion resistance.

 

One of the most important properties of copper is its ability to fight bacteria. After extensive antimicrobial testing by the Environmental Protection Agency, it was found that 355 copper alloys, including many brasses, were found to kill more than 99.9% of bacteria within two hours of contact. Normal tarnishing was found not to impair antimicrobial effectiveness.

 

Copper Applications
Copper was one of the earliest metals discovered.  The Greeks and Romans made it into tools or adornments, and there are even historical details showing the application of copper to sterilize wounds and purify drinking water. Today it is most commonly found in electrical materials such as wiring because of its ability to effectively conduct electricity.

 

Brass
Brass is mainly an alloy that consists of copper with zinc added. Brasses can have varying amounts of zinc or other elements added. Brass can range in color from red to yellow depending on the amount of zinc added to the alloy.

 

If the zinc content of the brass ranges from 32% to 39%, it will have increased hot-working abilities but the cold-working will be limited.
If the brass contains over 39% zinc (example – Muntz Metal), it will have a higher strength and lower ductility (at room temperature).
 

Brass Applications
Brass is commonly used for decorative purposes primarily because of its resemblance to gold. It is also a commonly used to make musical instruments due to its high workability and durability.