
Comparing CuZn39Pb3 with CuZn39Pb1, CuZn37, and CuZn30 to figure out what's the difference. At the same time let's find the brass grade international equivalents. Then the introduction of these brass uses such as machining, forming, and structural parts. If you're looking for the right brass grade for your application, this blog may help you.
Brass CuZn39Pb3,CuZn39Pb1, CuZn37, and CuZn30 Chemical Composition (%)
| Alloy | Copper (Cu) | Zinc (Zn, balance) | Lead (Pb) | Notes |
|---|
| CuZn39Pb3 | 57–59 | Balance | 2.5–3.5 | High-lead content, excellent machinability |
| CuZn39Pb1 | 58–60 | Balance | 0.7–1.5 | Medium-lead, good for machining and strength |
| CuZn37 | 62–63 | Balance | ≤0.1 | Lead-free or low-lead brass |
| CuZn30 | 69–70 | Balance | ≤0.05 | High-copper content, corrosion resistant |
Brass CuZn39Pb3,CuZn39Pb1, CuZn37, and CuZn30 Physical Properties
| Property | CuZn39Pb3 | CuZn39Pb1 | CuZn37 | CuZn30 |
|---|
| Density (g/cm³) | 8.4–8.6 | 8.4–8.6 | 8.4 | 8.5 |
| Melting Point (°C) | 890–900 | 890–900 | 900–910 | 920–930 |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 350–500 (adjustable) | 350–450 | 300–450 | 300–400 |
| Elongation (%) | 10–20 | 15–25 | 25–45 | 30–50 |
| Electrical Conductivity (% IACS) | ~26–30 | ~28–32 | ~28–33 | ~30–35 |
| Machinability | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Cold Formability | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |

Brass grades and uses
Common Applications:
CuZn39Pb3 is widely used in household plumbing components.
Typical examples include water taps, valves, and faucet fittings.
Its excellent machinability makes it ideal for precision-turned parts, such as lamp sockets and threaded connectors.
CuZn39Pb1 is commonly found in gas fittings, pressure regulators, and medium-precision hardware.
It offers a good balance between ease of machining and mechanical strength.
CuZn37 is used in stamped and formed products like keys, zippers, lock bodies, and decorative hardware.
Due to its good formability and affordable cost, it’s popular in daily-use metal parts.
CuZn30 is favored for its corrosion resistance in humid environments.
Typical uses include door handles, window fittings, water tanks, and brass musical instruments.

Specialized Applications:
CuZn39Pb3 is a preferred material for CNC automatic lathe machining.
It is used in hydraulic components, aerospace fasteners, and ammunition casings.
Its high lead content ensures smooth cutting and extended tool life.
CuZn39Pb1 finds application in pneumatic connectors, fluid control systems, and industrial valve parts.
It provides a compromise between machinability and performance under pressure.
CuZn37, being low in lead, is suitable for RoHS-compliant or environmentally friendly products.
It’s also used in heat exchanger fins, electrical housings, and deep-drawn components.
CuZn30 is used in marine hardware, EMI shielding enclosures, and boiler systems.
Its higher copper content enhances corrosion resistance and cold-forming capabilities.