CuZn15
CW501LLow-zinc brass (Tombak/Gilding Metal) — 85/15 Cu-Zn. Rich golden color, excellent cold formability, and good corrosion resistance. Lower Zn than CuZn20 — closer to pure copper in color and properties. Used for ammunition cartridge cases, decorative hardware, coins/medals, jewelry components, and architectural trim where a rich gold appearance is desired.
International equivalents
| Flag | Standard | Country | Grade | Number | Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 | UNS | USA | UNS C23000 (Red Brass) | C23000 | REF |
| 🇪🇺 | EN | Europe | CuZn15 / CW501L | CW501L | 100% |
Sources: ASTM B36, EN 12163
Chemical composition comparison (wt%)
Side-by-side: CuZn15 (EN) (EN 12163) vs CuZn15 / CW501L (EN) (EN 12163)
| Element | CuZn15 (EN) | CuZn15 / CW501L (EN) | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cu | 84–86% | 84–86% | OK |
| Zn | — | — | — |
| Pb | 0–0.03% | 0–0.03% | OK |
| Fe | 0–0.1% | 0–0.1% | OK |
Mechanical properties
Annealed
| Property | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 270–330 | MPa |
| Yield Strength | 60–110 | MPa |
| Elongation | 55–65 | % |
| Elastic Modulus | ≥ 118 | GPa |
| Density | ≥ 8.75 | g/cm3 |
Compatibility verdict
CuZn15 and CuZn15 / CW501L: 100% composition match
Close equivalents but NOT identical.
Related materials
CuZn37
2.0321Lead-free alpha/alpha+beta brass (63% Cu, 37% Zn). Compromise between cold formability (CuZn35) and hot formability (CuZn40). The most widely used unleaded brass. Used for cartridge cases, radiator cores, lamp components, plumbing fixtures, and decorative hardware.
CuZn36Pb3
CW603NFree-cutting leaded brass — the benchmark for non-ferrous machinability (rated 100%). Lead particles act as chip breakers for excellent surface finish. Used for screw machine parts, fittings, valves, watch components, precision mechanics, and electrical connectors. Old DIN number 2.0375.
CuSn6
CW452KPhosphor bronze with 6% tin — better cold formability than CuSn8 at slightly lower strength. Excellent spring properties and fatigue resistance. Used for electrical connectors, spring contacts, switch parts, bellows, bourdon tubes, and precision springs.
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