IS 319 specifies free cutting brass bars, rods, and sections. The lead content (1.5-3.5%) improves machinability significantly, making this the preferred material for high-speed automatic screw machine products like fittings, valves, and hardware components.
Specification for free cutting brass (leaded brass) bars, rods, and sections for machining applications including chemical composition, mechanical properties, and dimensional requirements.
Key Values
Copper content57 - 63%
Lead content1.5 - 3.5%
Zinc contentRemainder
Practical Notes
! Free cutting brass is the most widely machined non-ferrous alloy in India — used extensively in plumbing fittings and electrical hardware.
! Lead content is being restricted in drinking water fittings globally — check IS 8931 for potable water applications.
! Excellent for high-speed CNC turning — produces short, broken chips unlike plain brass which gives long stringy chips.