C3604: Characteristics, properties and applications

Jul 29, 2025

TABLE OF CONTENTS OF ARTICLE

What is C3604?

C3604 is a brass alloy whose main components are copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn), with a small amount of lead (Pb) added to improve machinability. This material is popular in the industry due to its good mechanical properties, ease of machining and high corrosion resistance.

Other names: C3604 Brass , Free-cutting brass , C3604 Turned Brass , C3604 Leaded Brass 

Chemical composition of C3604

Element Typical content (%)
Copper (Cu) 60 – 63
Zinc (Zn) balance
Lead (Pb) 1.8 – 3.7
Iron (Fe) ≤ 0.5

The lead content in C3604 helps increase cutting ability and reduce tool wear when machining on CNC machines or lathes.

Outstanding features of C3604

  • ✅ Easy to process : Ranked as the easiest material to cut in the brass group. Very suitable for details requiring high precision.
  • ✅ Good corrosion resistance : Durable in air, water and many types of industrial oils.
  • ✅ Good electrical and thermal conductivity : Suitable for electrical and electromechanical components.
  • ✅ Bright and beautiful surface : Easy to polish, convenient for applications requiring aesthetics.
  • ✅ Reasonable cost : Lower price compared to many other copper alloys.

Common applications of C3604 copper

C3604 is widely used in the fields of:

Precision mechanics

  • Shafts, screws, small gears
  • CNC lathe copper connector and pipe

Electricity - electronics

  • Plug and connector components
  • Electrical contact housing

Civil and industrial equipment

  • Water valve, shower components
  • Water meter accessories, door lock

CNC machining in large quantities

  • Because of its superior cutting ability, C3604 is well suited for mass production of turned brass parts.

Why choose C3604 at Oristar?

✅ High quality imported products
✅ Clear certificate of origin (CO/CQ)
✅ Processing on request (bar cutting, plate cutting, rough turning)
✅ Technical advice and fast nationwide delivery

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Oristar – Leading Metal Supplier in Asia
Core product lines: Copper, Aluminum, Steel
Main product grades provided by Oristar: Aluminum alloys, Copper alloys, Aluminum alloy plates, Aluminum coil grades, Tool steel, Special steel: A5052, A6061, A7075, C1100, C2680, C3604, SUS303, SUS304, SKD11, SKD61,...
For product consultation, please contact:
Hotline: 0988 750 686
Email: info@oristar.vn
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