brass vs copper metal

Brass vs copper? Professionals and hobbyists often come down to these two metals, which affect several UK industries. These include defence, aerospace, construction, and even education. Selecting the right metal ensures better performance, durability, and value for your project.

Copper is ideal for wiring, heat transfer, and specific plumbing tasks. Its high electrical and thermal conductivity make it the best option. Brass is a budget-friendly option, easy to shape, and great for decorative, marine, and wear-resistant purposes.

In this guide, you will discover each metal’s makeup, how well it conducts, its resistance to rust, its strength, and its price. We’ll also include examples from different sectors. If you need exact cut-to-size sheets or strong fittings, you’ll find the right metal for your project. Plus, you’ll learn how to order it quickly for delivery all over the UK.

What Are Brass & Copper Made Of?

Understanding what each metal is made of helps you quickly identify them and make an informed choice.

  • Copper is a pure element with a distinct reddish-orange colour. Over time, it develops a green patina that protects the surface from further corrosion. It is valued for its high purity and natural properties.
  • Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, producing a golden-yellow appearance. Its composition may vary. Some grades have extra corrosion resistance or specific mechanical properties. Brass stays bright for longer unless left untreated, making it popular for visible fittings and trims.

A quick visual inspection can help tell them apart: copper has a reddish tint, while brass is more yellow. To order high-quality materials, explore our brass sheet and copper sheet ranges, both available cut to size for your project.

How Conductivity & Corrosion Resistance Compare

Performance in conductivity and resistance to environmental wear are major decision points.

The Copper Development Association says that yellow brass alloys provide only about 25–30% of the conductivity of pure copper. This makes brass less suitable for heavy current-carrying circuits.

Both metals resist rust, since neither contains iron. Health and Safety (HSE)’s offshore corrosion guidance says that brass can suffer dezincification in marine areas rich in chloride. In contrast, copper will oxidise over time, forming a protective green patina.

Brass generally resists tarnish but can dull without maintenance, depending on the alloy used. For electrical work, copper remains the preferred choice. For projects in architecture, marine work, or construction, brass is a solid alternative. It resists corrosion well, even if high conductivity isn’t essential.

You can see more sector-specific examples on our sectors page. Here, we cover a range of industries from medical to engineering.

Which Is Stronger, Easier to Work With, & More Cost-Effective?

Strength, machinability, and budget often determine whether a project leans toward brass or copper.

Typical tensile strength for free-cutting brass alloys is between 360 and 500 MPa. In contrast, commercially pure copper has a tensile strength of 210 to 370 MPa, according to the Copper Development Association. That extra strength makes brass the top choice for threaded fittings, precision fixings, and durable parts in UK factories.

When it comes to machinability, brass is widely regarded as one of the easiest metals to work with. It cuts quickly, reduces tool wear, and achieves a high-quality finish. This is perfect for projects that need exact tolerances. Copper is softer and more ductile, which makes it easier to bend and form, but it can be harder to machine efficiently without the right expertise.

London Metal Exchange data show copper futures consistently trading at a premium over brass scrap indices. Brass is a cheaper option that maintains good durability. It’s suitable for many general and decorative applications.

Need advice on material choice for your project or want a bespoke cut-to-size order? You can contact our team for tailored recommendations and fast UK delivery.

Best Applications for Brass vs Copper

Matching the right material to the correct application ensures better performance and value.

Brass works best for:

  • Plumbing fittings and valves where corrosion resistance is essential
  • Decorative trims, edging, and architectural accents
  • Marine hardware and components exposed to wear and saltwater

Copper works best for:

  • Electrical wiring, contacts, and busbars
  • Roofing, cladding, and guttering for long-term weather resistance
  • Heat exchangers, radiators, and other HVAC components

You can browse our homepage to order precisely what you need for these applications.

Choose the Right Metal & Get It Exactly How You Need It

Your choice between brass and copper should reflect your project’s performance goals, budget, and environment. Copper delivers exceptional conductivity and excels in heat transfer and specific structural applications. Brass offers strength, machinability, and a warm visual appeal at a more competitive cost.

At Clickmetal, we offer more than just metal supply. Our cut-to-size service delivers metal tailored to your exact dimensions. This means it’s ready for installation or fabrication right away. With more than 70 years of experience in construction, marine, engineering, and design, we can help you find the best option for your needs. Order brass or copper to your exact specifications today with fast UK delivery.

Call 01794 526090 or contact us online for tailored advice from our metal specialists.