The key distinction lies in nomenclature conventions, not material properties:
C36000: This is the formal, standardized alloy designation under ASTM B16 (Standard Specification for Free-Cutting Brass Rod, Bar, and Wire for Machined Parts). ASTM uses a 5-character alphanumeric system for copper alloys:
The first letter "C" denotes "copper alloy."
The next three digits ("360") identify the specific alloy family and composition (free-cutting brass with a precise zinc-lead-copper ratio).
The final two digits ("00") indicate "standard purity" (no significant variations in key elements like lead or zinc). For many common copper alloys (including C36000), these trailing zeros do not alter the alloy's core properties and are therefore frequently dropped in casual reference.
C360 Brass: This is the informal, industry-accepted shorthand for C36000. It retains the critical "C360" identifier (which defines the alloy's composition and performance) while omitting the redundant "00" suffix. This shorthand is used universally in engineering drawings, supplier catalogs, and manufacturing discussions-no one in the industry distinguishes between "C360 brass" and "C36000" because they refer to the exact same material.
Both "C360 brass" and "C36000" share identical chemical composition, mechanical properties, and performance characteristics-the only variation is the name used to describe them. Below are the defining traits that unify them:
The composition of C36000 (and thus C360 brass) is strictly regulated to ensure consistent performance, particularly its "free-cutting" ability (easy machinability, a hallmark of this alloy). The key elements are:
This composition is identical for both "C360 brass" and "C36000"-there is no variation in element ratios between the two terms.
Since they are the same alloy, "C360 brass" and "C36000" exhibit identical mechanical properties (tested per ASTM standards):
These properties are consistent across all materials labeled "C360 brass" or "C36000," as they are manufactured to the same ASTM B16 specification.
Both terms describe an alloy prized for its exceptional machinability (the best among common brasses) and balanced mechanical properties. Its core applications include:
Precision machined parts: Nuts, bolts, screws, washers, and fittings (e.g., plumbing fixtures).
Electrical components: Terminal blocks, connectors, and switch parts (balances machinability and moderate electrical conductivity).
Hardware: Cabinet pulls, hinges, and decorative fasteners (cost-effective and easy to finish with plating).
Automotive parts: Small fittings, valve stems, and sensor housings (resists mild corrosion from oils and coolants).
There is no difference in how "C360 brass" or "C36000" is used-suppliers, engineers, and manufacturers interchange the terms freely for these applications.
Occasionally, confusion arises if someone misinterprets "C360" as a different standard (e.g., non-ASTM designations). However:
In North America (the primary user of ASTM designations), "C360 brass" is always understood to mean C36000.
In other regions, similar free-cutting brasses exist (e.g., BS EN 12164 CW617N in Europe), but these are labeled differently and have slight composition variations (e.g., lead content ranges). They are never called "C360 brass" or "C36000," as those terms are tied to ASTM C36000.
To avoid ambiguity, specify "ASTM C36000" in formal documents (e.g., purchase orders, technical drawings), but "C360 brass" is universally accepted in verbal or informal communication.
C36000 and C360 brass are not different materials-they are two names for the same ASTM-standardized free-cutting brass alloy. "C36000" is the formal 5-character ASTM designation, while "C360 brass" is the common shorthand that omits the redundant trailing zeros. Both share identical composition, mechanical properties, and applications. The only "difference" is the naming convention, not the material itself.
