Alloy 260， Pipe，UNS N03260,E FORU

British Specs:，American Specs: AMS 5890 Bar and Forgings，German Specs:

### **Product Datasheet: Alloy 260 (Cartridge Brass, 70/30) Pipe** **UNS Designation:** UNS C26000 **Common Names:** Cartridge Brass, 70/30 Brass Pipe #### **Overview** Alloy 260 is a single-phase alpha brass renowned for its excellent combination of ductility, strength, and corrosion resistance. As a copper-zinc alloy with a nominal composition of 70% copper and 30% zinc, it is the most widely used brass alloy. In the form of pipe, Alloy 260 is primarily chosen for its superior formability, ease of joining, and reliable performance in plumbing, mechanical, and architectural applications. Its name, "Cartridge Brass," originates from its historical use in ammunition casings, which required exceptional deep-drawing capabilities. #### **Key Characteristics** * **Excellent Formability:** Can be easily bent, flared, and swaged without cracking, making installation straightforward. * **Good Corrosion Resistance:** Resists corrosion from fresh water, steam, and many atmospheric conditions. * **High Ductility and Impact Strength:** Withstands vibration and shock loads effectively. * **Ease of Joining:** Can be readily soldered, brazed, and welded using standard techniques. * **Good Machinability:** Offers excellent machinability for a non-leaded brass, rated at 100% (Free-Cutting Brass C36000 = 100%). * **Attractive Appearance:** Possesses a warm, gold-like color suitable for decorative applications. * **Antimicrobial Properties:** Inherent to copper alloys, providing a degree of hygiene in fluid handling systems. *Note: Alloy 260 is susceptible to dezincification in stagnant, slightly acidic, or alkaline waters. For such environments, inhibited (arsenical or antimonial) brasses like UNS C44300 are recommended.* --- #### **Chemical Composition (Weight % - ASTM B135 Specification)** | Element | Content (%) | | :--- | :--- | | Copper (Cu) | 68.5 - 71.5 | | Zinc (Zn) | Remainder | | Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.05 | | Lead (Pb) | ≤ 0.07 | | Other Elements (Total) | ≤ 0.15 | *The low lead content makes it a preferred choice for potable water applications under regulations such as the U.S. Safe Drinking Water Act, though local regulations should always be verified.* --- #### **Physical & Mechanical Properties (Typical for Annealed Condition)** | Property | Value | | :--- | :--- | | **Density** | 8.53 g/cm³ (0.308 lb/in³) | | **Melting Point (Liquidus)** | 955 °C (1750 °F) | | **Melting Point (Solidus)** | 915 °C (1680 °F) | | **Thermal Conductivity** | 120 W/m·K | | **Coefficient of Thermal Expansion** | 20.2 x 10⁻⁶/°C (20-300°C) | | **Modulus of Elasticity (Tension)** | 110 GPa (16 x 10⁶ psi) | | **Tensile Strength** | 325 - 410 MPa (47 - 59 ksi) | | **Yield Strength (0.5% Ext)** | 75 - 145 MPa (11 - 21 ksi) | | **Elongation (in 2 in)** | 55 - 65% | *Mechanical properties vary with temper (e.g., Drawn Temper H58 offers higher strength but lower elongation).* --- #### **International Standards** Alloy 260 pipe is covered by several key international standards that define its dimensions, tolerances, and testing requirements. * **ASTM (USA):** * **ASTM B135:** Standard Specification for Seamless Brass Pipe. This is the primary specification. * **ASTM B43:** Standard Specification for Seamless Red Brass Pipe (which includes C23000, but C26000 is often supplied to this standard for certain applications). * **ASME (USA):** * **ASME SB135:** Equivalent to ASTM B135 for pressure vessel and boiler applications. * **EN (European Norm):** * **EN 12449:** Copper and copper alloys - Seamless, round tubes for general purposes. * **EN 12451:** Copper and copper alloys - Seamless, round tubes for heat exchangers. * **Material Designation:** CW508L (Formerly CW505L). * **DIN (Germany):** * **DIN 17660:** CuZn30 (CZ106). * **JIS (Japan):** * **JIS H3300:** Copper and copper alloy seamless pipes and tubes. * **Alloy Designation:** C2600. --- #### **Product Applications** Alloy 260 pipe is utilized across a wide range of industries due to its balanced properties. * **Plumbing Systems:** * Potable water distribution lines (where local codes permit). * General service water lines, drain lines, and sewerage systems. * Residential and commercial plumbing fittings. * **HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning):** * Heat exchanger tubes (for non-condensing systems). * Fuel and oil lines. * Compressor cooling lines. * **Mechanical Systems:** * Low to medium-pressure hydraulic and pneumatic lines. * Lubrication lines. * General-purpose tubing for machinery. * **Architectural and Decorative:** * Handrails, curtain rods, and furniture frames. * Decorative exposed piping in interior design. * **Other Applications:** * Marine plumbing and fittings. * Musical instruments (e.g., some wind instruments). --- #### **Disclaimer** This information is provided for reference purposes only and represents typical values and applications. The suitability of Alloy 260 pipe for a specific application depends on service conditions, environment, and regulatory requirements. It is essential to consult the official material standards and engage with a qualified engineer for critical applications. Performance can be affected by factors such as temper, installation practices, and water chemistry.

Packing of Standard Packing: Typical bulk packaging includes palletized plastic 5 gallon/25 kg. pails, fiber and steel drums to 1 ton super sacks in full container (FCL) or truck load (T/L) quantities. Research and sample quantities and hygroscopic, oxidizing or other air sensitive materials may be packaged under argon or vacuum. Solutions are packaged in polypropylene, plastic or glass jars up to palletized 2810 gallon liquid totes Special package is available on request.