The valve material impacts its suitability for a specific environment, performance, longevity, and cost. Comparing stainless steel and brass valves can reveal each material’s natural strengths and weaknesses. Stainless steel is made of medium and low-carbon steel. Brass is a metal alloy of copper and zinc. It is golden-yellow, which may approach red if the levels of copper in the alloy are high. This guide explains the full difference between brass and stainless steel valves.
Types of Stainless Steel and Brass Raw Materials Difference
Normal Types of Brass
- CW617N
This European standard brass alloy is a common alloy with good machinability and corrosion resistance. It contains approximately 58-60% Cu, 1.8-2.5% Pb, with the remainder being Zn. The addition of lead enhances its machinability. This makes CW617N suitable for producing complex parts of fittings and valves.
The corrosion resistance obtained in this alloy makes it applicable in water systems and plumbing applications. This alloy also finds application in hot forging operations because of its good mechanical properties and ease of forming.
- HPb59-1
HPb59-1 contains about 57-60% copper and 0.8-1.9% lead, though the remainder is zinc. Adding lead improves the alloy’s machinability and enhances its formability into compound component forms.
HPb59-1 finds wide application in manufacturing plumbing fittings, valves, and various hardware parts. It is the combination of mechanical strength and corrosion resistance. Its ease of machining makes it a versatile and cost-effective option for many industrial applications.
- CW602N
CW602N, commonly referred to as dezincification-resistant brass (DZR), is an alloy that is designed to be resistant to dezincification.
Dezincification is one form of corrosion that selectively leaches out zinc from the alloy, leading to a loss in mechanical strength of the metal. The chemical composition of this brass includes a copper content of approximately 62%, 2% lead, 1% tin, 0.2-0.3% arsenic, with the balance being zinc.
Adding arsenic and tin prevents dezincification, making CW602N ideal for applications where aggressive environments are known to be put on the equipment by potable water systems and similar applications, with long-term reliability and resistance required against corrosion.
- C36000
C36000 is free-machining brass and is a freely available American standard alloy boasting excellent machinability and workability in high-speed machining operations.
This brass alloy contains about 60-63% copper and 2.5-3.7% lead, and the balance is composed of zinc. The high lead content provides lubricity, which offers less tool wear and better production efficiency.
C36000 finds broad application in the production of parts that rightly require a high degree of intricacy in screws, nuts, bolts, and other precision parts where fine details and small tolerances need to be maintained. The machinability and ease of working make it a good fit for automated machining processes.
Typical Types of Stainless Steel
- 316 Stainless Steel
316 stainless steel is an austenitic steel classified as falling within the Cr-Ni alloy group. It is composed of nickel (10-13%), molybdenum (2-2.5%), and chromium (16.5-18.5%). Also, the composition comprises 0.07% C, 2% Mn, 1% Si, 0.045% P, 0.015% S, and 0.11% N. Three distinct standardization models for 316 stainless steel are X5CrNiMo17-12-2 DIN, 1.4401 EN, and 316 AISI.
- 201 stainless steel
201 stainless steel is an austenitic alloy composed of nitrogen, manganese, nickel, and chromium. Manganese and nitrogen replace some nickel in the structure, reducing the nickel content while maintaining corrosion resistance. The steel is more cost-effective when the nickel content is reduced.
201 steel is classified as an austenitic stainless steel in the Cr-Mn-N alloy category. It is referred to as 201 for AISI, X12CrMnNiN17-7-5 for DIN, and 1.4372 for EN, with the designations varying by organization.
The typical composition of 201 SS is as follows: 0.15% C, 5.5-7.5% Mn, 1% Si, 16-18% Cr, 3.5-5.5% Ni, 0.045% P, 0.015% S, and 0.25% N. The primary applications of 201 stainless steel are food-handling components, such as cleansing basins, decorative architectural elements, and deep-drawn, cold-formed components.
201 is nonmagnetic when annealed; however, it becomes moderately responsive to magnets as it is cold-worked. 201 steel is also hardened through cold working, and thermal treatment will not affect it.
- 304 stainless steel
A general-purpose austenitic stainless steel, 304 stainless steel contains significant levels of nickel (10%) and chromium (18%). The standard composition of 304 stainless steel is as follows: 0.07% C, 2% Mn, 1% Si, 17.5-19.5 Cr, 8-10.5% Ni, 0.045% P, and 0.015% S. Different standardization models for 304 stainless steel include X5CrNi18-10 DIN, 1.4301 EN, and 304 AISI.
High-pressure flanges, pressure systems, compressors, and petrochemical processing facilities are the primary applications of 304 stainless steel.
- 430 stainless steel
AISI 430, a ferritic stainless steel that is commercially significant, has moderate performance properties and a relatively low cost. Chromium (16-18%) is present in high concentrations in 430 stainless steel, which provides corrosion resistance. Its typical composition also comprises 0.08% C, 1% Mn, 1% Si, 0.04% P, and 0.015% S. 430 AISI, X6Cr17 DIN, and 1.4016 EN are the various standardization models for 430 stainless steel. The stainless steel has four primary applications: dishwashers, gas injectors, chimney casings, and mooring wires.
Stainless Steel Vs. Brass Valves: What Is the Difference
Application Difference
- Stainless Steel Valves Applications
- Suitable for corrosion, chemicals, acids, and salty water
- Used in the marine, chemical processing, and wastewater treatment industries
- It is used in power generation, oil and gas, and industrial processes
- Can support higher pressure and thus are used in high-pressure hydraulic systems, steam applications
- Brass Valves Applications
- Used for residential plumbing, heating systems, and air compressors.
- Low to medium-temperature applications: HVAC systems, potable water systems
- Used in many general applications where cost efficiency is necessary without giving up reliability, for example, irrigation, fire protection, and general plumbing.
- Preferred in complex valve configurations due to its ease of machining and assembly, instrumentation, and fluid control systems.
Size
Both valves are available in standard nominal pipe sizes from 1/4″ to 4″ with similar port diameters, overall lengths, and heights.
For example, a 1/2-inch brass valve typically has a 0.50-inch port diameter, a length of about 2.25 inches, and a height of about 1.85 inches. In most cases, a 1/2-inch stainless steel valve will also have a port diameter of 0.50 inches, but it will also have a slightly longer length of about 2.50 inches and roughly the same height of about 2.00 inches.
Dimensions of both brass and stainless steel valves remain similar as the nominal pipe size increases. For a 2-inch valve, both brass and stainless steel versions have a port inner diameter of 2.00 inches.
A 2-inch brass valve is 4.45 inches in length dimensions, while its stainless-steel counterpart is a little longer at 4.65 inches. The height stays close, with brass at 3.70 inches and stainless steel at 3.90 inches.
Corrosion Resistance Difference
- Stainless Steel Valves:
Stainless steel valves exhibit excellent performance in their corrosive surroundings. Chromium is a thin passive oxide layer at the surface and prevents further corrosion. Thus, stainless steel valves resist rusting, chemical attacks, and tarnishing while enhancing performance in demanding applications.
- Brass Valves:
This becomes more disadvantaged with brass valves, which have good corrosion resistance but are prone to dezincification. Dezincification means the leaching of zinc from the alloy by aggressive environments, leading to weak valve structures.
All inorganic metal materials are subject to corrosion in water systems and conditions with fluctuating pH or chlorination. Although compared to other materials, it might occur over time.
Durability and Longevity Difference
- Stainless Steel Valves:
Stainless steel valves offer excellent service life and strength. The material is resistant to pressure, temperature, and corrosion. This makes them cost-effective in the long run since they will need replacement and servicing less often.
- Brass Valves:
Brass valves have a decent lifetime but are not as corrosion-resistant as stainless steel, particularly in aggressive or high-end applications. Water quality, temperature, and pressure conditions are fundamental. Even in non-aggressive applications, brass valves would last several years if maintained.
Check out our brass valves.
CNC Produces a Difference
Perhaps the first notable difference between stainless steel and brass valves is their manufacturing processes and related costs. Because of its properties, stainless steel is not easily forged, so valves made from this material are manufactured by some casting process.
This raises tooling costs since casting requires molds and patterns specific to each valve design. In contrast, casting and forging methods can be used to manufacture brass valves.
Because it is ductile, the forging process with brass is rather inexpensive. Yet, various parts may have higher mechanical strength while keeping tooling expenses relatively lower than stainless steel. Thus, it impacts flexibility and cost-effectiveness in production for both valve manufacturers and the products/machines that use them.
Cost Difference
- Stainless Steel Valves:
Stainless steel valves are more expensive than brass valves. Some of the reasons for this price discrepancy include the excellent material properties and intricate processing methods involved. However, these advantages increase their value in the long term by reducing maintenance costs and lengthening their lifetime.
- Brass Valves:
This makes brass valves less expensive and most appropriate in many applications. However, their lower price does not give way to poor performance in suitable environments. Thus, they remain a cost-effective solution for less demanding applications.
Performance Difference
- Stainless Steel Valves:
These stainless steel valves can withstand extreme variability in temperature and pressure. They are used in various high-pressure systems and high-temperature applications. Stainless steel valves support various fluids, from water and oil to gas, and are versatile across many industries.
- Brass Valves:
Brass valves should only be used for low to medium pressure and temperature. They work fine in water and some non-aggressive fluid environments. But, they may not differ significantly in a high-pressure or high-temperature system. One of the significant limitations to their performance is their tendency to capability dezincification.
Pressure and Temperature Rating Difference
Parameter | Stainless Steel Valves | Brass Valves |
Temperature Rating | -20°F to 450°F (-29°C to 232°C) | -20°F to 400°F |
Pressure Rating | Up to 1000 PSI for 1/2″ size | Up to 600 PSI for 1/2″ size |
Maintenance Difference
Due to stainless steel valves’ corrosion resistance and strength, little maintenance is required. Periodic inspection and simple maintenance, such as cleaning and lubrication, could keep them working long.
Brass valves need heavier maintenance, particularly in corrosive or mineral-rich areas. However, problems relating to leakage or reduced flow will not occur in inspected and cleaned valves.
Stainless Steel Vs Brass Valve: Advantages and Disadvantages
Stainless Steel Valve Advantages:
- Offers better resistance to corrosion and rust; hence, suitable for rigorous or demanding environments
- They are more resistant to wear and tear, giving them a longer life
- Have higher tensile strength than brass and is ideal for high-pressure applications
- It withstands higher temperatures than brass and is thus suitable for more applications.
Stainless Steel Valve Disadvantages:
- It is heavier than brass, so it is difficult to handle and manipulate during installation.
- Brass is more challenging to machine and manipulate than steel, which can lead to higher manufacturing costs.
- Galvanic corrosion can be caused by stainless steel when used alongside other metals; hence, material compatibility must be considered.
Brass Valves Advantages:
- Easier machining and workability can reduce manufacturing costs.
- It is more malleable than stainless steel and can be formed into more intricate designs.
- Fair corrosion resistance, especially in water applications, due to the addition of copper
- High thermal and electrical conductivity, helpful particular uses
Brass Valves Disadvantages:
- Less resistant and wear-resistant than stainless steel, hence less suitable for applications with severe conditions.
- Lower high-temperature properties than stainless. It restricts their use in high-temperature applications.
- Standard brasses contain lead and should not be used for potable water applications, although lead-free brasses are now available.
Further Trend Technology in Valve Manufacturer?
· Advanced Materials:
Improved tooling technologies, like precision casting and forging, have made stainless-steel components available and more reliable for all. Advanced composites are added to valve components to make them more durable, reduce weight, and increase resistance against extreme temperatures and chemicals.
· Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing):
3D printing technology is working wonders in the valve manufacturer industry. It introduces a line of benefits, including fast prototyping, customization possibilities, and complex geometries that are hardly reachable with traditional manufacturing methods. The technology always reduces waste and lead times.
· Smart Valves and IoT Integration:
One of the significant trends is the integration of Internet of Things technology into valve systems. Intelligent valves, which integrate sensors for monitoring and reporting real-time pressure, flow, and temperature data, aid in predictive maintenance and improve system efficiency, reducing downtime.
· Automation and Robotics:
Automation increases precision and efficiency during the manufacture and testing of a valve. Robotic systems make moving, assembling, and inspecting much easier, with much precision and accuracy related to quality, and they provide less workforce intervention during the process.
· Eco-friendly Manufacturing Practices:
The industry is leaning more towards sustainable manufacturing practices, such as substituting eco-friendly materials, recycling waste, and sweetening the impingement process.
· Upgrading Coating and Surface Treatments:
High-performance coatings and surface treatment enhance performance and extend valve life. PVD and ceramic coatings strengthen the resistance to wear, corrosion, and high temperature.
· Enhanced Sealing Technologies:
Innovations in sealing technologies have a significant effect on valve performance. New materials and designs for seals and gaskets have been developed to prevent leaks and ensure a longer lifespan.
· Customization and Flexible Manufacturing:
Requirements for custom-made valve solutions are ever more frequent. The reverse engineering of custom flexible manufacturing systems makes quick production variations toward specific designs possible. This has been driven by increasing demand for pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and aerospace valves.
Stainless Steel Vs Brass Valve: Which One Is Better?
Generally, stainless steel valves are more corrosion-resistant and hence find applications in more aggressive environments with corrosive fluids or high temperatures. They are much more robust, withstand higher pressures, and have more rugged constructions than brass valves.
On the contrary, brass valves are more economical and machine-accessible. Moreover, brass is used in valves due to its refined appearance and in all decorative fittings.
Brass valves are recommended where corrosion from water, including saltwater, poses a problem. On the other hand, stainless steel valves are more applicable in applications where high strength and resistance against aggressive industrial chemicals are necessary.
Final Thoughts
The choice between stainless steel and brass valves must be based on operational requirements, environmental conditions, and budget considerations. Want even more valve options? Contact us today to find the right valve solution for your application.