Aluminium and brass are two substances we deal with when we offer tube expansion and other services. These are two of the most commonly employed materials in the world. As you might expect, there are a number of differences between them. Brass is a metal alloy mainly comprised of copper. As for aluminium, it is a lightweight metal that has all sorts of uses. What we are going to do here is see how the two compare in relation to properties and applications.

Durability and strength

Brass is famous for its durability and strength if you compare to other materials. This makes it preferable for use in objects that demand high degrees of strength. Plumbing fixtures are a good example. Due to the copper content, it is also resistant to rusting and corrosion. It can do a better job standing up to saltwater settings than other alloys and metals.

As for aluminium, the strength is lower than brass. Saying this, it is far lighter in weight. So, it is better for items that need to be both strong and lightweight. It can resist corrosion, just not quite as well.

Density

If you compare how dense the two are, brass is roughly 8.5g/cm3 while aluminium is 2.7g/cm3. Thus, brass has three times the density of aluminium. If you are currently in need of stellar tube expansion services, contact our team.

Cost comparisons

The cost of both materials comes down to factors like alloy composition and purity level. Generally speaking, brass is typically more expensive than aluminium. This is thanks to the higher production costs. Aluminium comes with a lower density than other metals, so it tends to cost less per pound than brass. It can be a good option when affordability is a concern.

Applications

Brass tends to get used for objects demanding corrosion resistance and strength. Examples would be plumbing fixtures or electrical components. This metal does not corrode easily after all, even when you expose it to moisture or water. Furthermore, you can use it in decorative objects like furniture or lamps due to the attractive yellow colour.

Aluminium possesses a lighter weight than brass. So, you need it for construction projects where you have to keep weight down without deducting too much strength. You can use it for roofing materials or window frames. Or, you can use it for items demanding fantastic conductivity like cookware or wiring. Aluminium can conduct heat better than many other metals.

What to choose?

Both aluminium and brass possess distinct attributes that make them excellent choices for different projects. This depends on your budget and requirements. Brass offers better strength at higher costs. Aluminium supplies a low weight and decent corrosion resistance at a lower cost. The strength may not be the same as brass though.

In the end, the material you go for will depend on your unique demands. The factors most important to your project will play a part too. Regardless of the one you choose, you will have a quality material to work with.

Work with our team if you need tube expansion

At Multiform Tubes Engineering Ltd, we use expansion to open up the tube end using a myriad of methods. This allows you to use the tubes in many interesting ways. Also, you get a leakproof, snug fit onto other tubing.

If you’d like to use our tube expansion services, please let us know. We can offer them for various needs and have the skills to deal with many different metals.