benefits of using brass in marine applications

When it comes to building in marine environments, one question often surfaces: what metal can truly stand up to saltwater, humidity, and constant wear? Picture the impact of sea spray eating away at fittings or the rust creeping across metalwork exposed to harsh coastal winds.

These challenges are real and costly which is why many engineers, boat builders, and coastal fabricators turn to brass. But is brass corrosion resistant? In this guide, we will explain why brass enjoys such a strong reputation for corrosion resistance, how it performs under marine conditions, and why it could be the best choice for your next project.

Is Brass Corrosion Resistant?

Let’s begin by discussing brass corrosion properties.

According to AZO Materials, “Brasses are copper zinc alloys with a wide range of engineering uses. The addition of zinc to copper raises the strength and gives a range of properties, and the brasses are a very versatile range of materials. They are used for their strength, corrosion resistance, appearance and colour, and ease of working and joining.”

The high copper content gives brass its natural resistance to rust and corrosion, especially compared to ferrous metals that easily oxidise in damp environments. The protective oxide layer that forms on the surface of brass acts as a shield, helping it survive where others fail.

However, while brass resists corrosion well, it can suffer from dezincification. The dezincification of brass is a process that occurs when zinc leaches out of the alloy in highly saline or acidic conditions. Choosing dezincification-resistant brass alloys and ensuring proper maintenance can significantly mitigate this risk.

When you are looking for non-ferrous metals for sea water use, brass offers an excellent combination of reliability and strength.

Why Brass Is Ideal for Marine Use

The performance of brass in saltwater is impressive. It stands up well to the continuous presence of moisture, resisting saltwater corrosion far better than mild steel or untreated metals. Brass maintains its mechanical strength under pressure, making it a strong candidate for structural components in marine settings.

Beyond its strength, brass is a cost-effective solution compared to other marine-grade metals like bronze or high-grade stainless steel. For applications that demand a balance between longevity and budget, brass offers a winning compromise.

If you are debating between brass vs stainless steel marine materials, brass often comes out ahead for fittings and smaller hardware thanks to its easy machinability and excellent saltwater corrosion resistance.

Common Marine Applications of Brass

Now that we’ve answered the question, ‘Is brass corrosion resistant?’, let’s discuss the common marine applications of brass. You will find brass used across a wide range of marine environments thanks to its durability and attractive appearance:

  • Brass marine fittings such as valves, pumps, and pipes
  • Fixtures and fasteners for ship interiors and coastal buildings
  • Decorative trim and hardware on boats, yachts, and waterfront properties

When considering the best metal for marine use, brass consistently proves its worth across both practical and aesthetic applications.

Popular Brass Products for Marine Use

At Clickmetal, we supply a wide range of brass products perfect for marine use, each offering excellent saltwater corrosion resistance and durability. Our brass round bar is ideal for creating custom fittings, mechanical components, and fixtures exposed to challenging environments.

If you need a strong, adaptable material for mounting bases or durable decorative trim, brass plate provides outstanding performance and longevity. For specialised marine hardware where precision matters, our brass hex bar offers excellent machinability combined with reliable strength.

Choosing the right brass product ensures a long-lasting installation that can withstand the harsh conditions found in coastal and offshore applications.

Choosing the Right Metal for the Marine Environment

Selecting between brass, stainless steel, and bronze can be challenging. While stainless steel provides excellent strength, brass delivers superior machinability and natural corrosion resistance with less maintenance.

Bronze resists dezincification slightly better but comes at a higher cost. When considering factors like dezincification, galvanic corrosion, and ease of upkeep, brass often provides the right balance for fittings, fasteners, and decorative elements. Always weigh your environment and specific needs carefully to pick the best metal for marine use.

Order Marine-Grade Brass Online from Clickmetal

If you are looking for high-quality marine-grade metals, including brass round bar, brass plate, and brass hex bar, we are ready to help. At Clickmetal, we supply precision-cut brass products designed for performance in tough coastal environments, with fast UK delivery and an expert team on hand to support your needs.

If you have any questions or need advice on choosing the right brass product, call us directly on 01794 526090 or complete our contact form – we are always happy to assist. Explore our full brass range today and choose a material proven for its saltwater corrosion resistance and lasting strength.