Alloy 260， Tube，UNS N03260,E FORU

British Specs:，American Specs: AMS 5890 Bar and Forgings，German Specs:

### **Product Datasheet: Alloy 260 (Cartridge Brass, 70/30) Tube** **UNS Designation:** UNS C26000 **Common Names:** Cartridge Brass Tube, 70/30 Brass Tube #### **Overview** Alloy 260 is a single-phase alpha brass, renowned as the most versatile and widely used copper-zinc alloy. With a nominal composition of 70% copper and 30% zinc, it offers an exceptional balance of ductility, strength, machinability, and corrosion resistance. In tubular form, Alloy 260 is specified for applications requiring reliable fluid conveyance, structural components, and aesthetic appeal. Its excellent cold-working properties make it ideal for bending, flaring, and swaging, facilitating complex installations and component manufacturing. #### **Key Characteristics** * **Superior Cold Workability:** Excellent for bending and forming without annealing, reducing fabrication steps. * **Good Corrosion Resistance:** Performs well in fresh water, steam, and atmospheric environments. * **High Ductility and Impact Strength:** Withstands vibration, mechanical shock, and deformation. * **Excellent Machinability:** Rated at 100% machinability (Free-Cutting Brass C36000 = 100%), allowing for high-speed turning, drilling, and milling. * **Ease of Joining:** Can be easily soldered, brazed, and welded using standard techniques. * **Attractive Finish:** Possesses a warm, gold-like appearance, suitable for decorative and architectural applications. * **Good Thermal and Electrical Conductivity:** Effective for heat exchanger and electrical component applications. ***Important Note on Dezincification:*** *Like other brasses with high zinc content, Alloy 260 is susceptible to dezincification in specific waters, particularly those that are stagnant, slightly acidic, or soft. For such environments, inhibited brass alloys like UNS C44300 or C68700 are recommended.* --- #### **Chemical Composition (Weight % - ASTM B135 Specification)** | Element | Content (%) | | :--- | :--- | | Copper (Cu) | 68.5 - 71.5 | | Zinc (Zn) | Remainder | | Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.05 | | Lead (Pb) | ≤ 0.07 | | Other Elements (Total) | ≤ 0.15 | *The low lead content makes Alloy 260 tube a suitable choice for applications with strict environmental and potable water regulations, though compliance with local standards (e.g., NSF/ANSI 61) must be verified.* --- #### **Physical & Mechanical Properties (Typical for Annealed Condition)** | Property | Value | | :--- | :--- | | **Density** | 8.53 g/cm³ (0.308 lb/in³) | | **Melting Point (Liquidus)** | 955 °C (1750 °F) | | **Melting Point (Solidus)** | 915 °C (1680 °F) | | **Thermal Conductivity** | 120 W/m·K | | **Electrical Conductivity** | 28% IACS | | **Coefficient of Thermal Expansion** | 20.2 x 10⁻⁶/°C (20-300°C) | | **Modulus of Elasticity** | 110 GPa (16 x 10⁶ psi) | | **Tensile Strength** | 325 - 410 MPa (47 - 59 ksi) | | **Yield Strength (0.5% Ext)** | 75 - 145 MPa (11 - 21 ksi) | | **Elongation** | 55 - 65% | *Mechanical properties can be significantly enhanced through cold drawing (e.g., drawn temper H58), resulting in higher strength and hardness but reduced ductility.* --- #### **International Standards** Alloy 260 tube is specified in numerous international standards governing its manufacture, dimensions, and tolerances. * **ASTM (USA):** * **ASTM B135:** Standard Specification for Seamless Brass Tube. This is the primary specification. * **ASME (USA):** * **ASME SB135:** Equivalent to ASTM B135 for pressure vessel and boiler applications. * **EN (European Norm):** * **EN 12449:** Copper and copper alloys - Seamless, round tubes for general purposes. * **EN 12451:** Copper and copper alloys - Seamless, round tubes for heat exchangers. * **Material Designation:** CW508L (Formerly CW505L). * **DIN (Germany):** * **DIN 17660:** CuZn30 (CZ106). * **DIN 17665:** Seamless Tubes. * **JIS (Japan):** * **JIS H3300:** Copper and copper alloy seamless pipes and tubes. * **Alloy Designation:** C2600. --- #### **Product Applications** Alloy 260 tube is utilized across a diverse range of industries due to its favorable properties. * **Plumbing & Hydronic Systems:** * General water service lines, drain lines. * Residential and commercial plumbing fittings. * **HVAC & Heat Exchangers:** * Heat exchanger tubes for non-condensing systems. * Compressor cooling lines, lubricant lines, refrigerant lines. * **Automotive & Transportation:** * Fuel and oil lines, hydraulic brake lines. * Pneumatic system tubing. * **General Engineering & Machinery:** * Cylinder liners, bushings, and sleeves machined from tube stock. * Low-friction bearings and wear sleeves. * Waveguides and other electrical components. * **Architectural & Decorative:** * Handrails, furniture frames, and structural accents. * Decorative trim and exposed tubular structures. --- #### **Disclaimer** This information is provided for reference purposes only and represents typical values and applications. The suitability of Alloy 260 tube for a specific application depends on service conditions, environment, mechanical requirements, and regulatory compliance. It is essential to consult the official material standards and engage with a qualified engineer for critical applications. Performance can be affected by factors such as temper, fabrication practices, and specific chemical environments.

Packing of Standard Packing: Typical bulk packaging includes palletized plastic 5 gallon/25 kg. pails, fiber and steel drums to 1 ton super sacks in full container (FCL) or truck load (T/L) quantities. Research and sample quantities and hygroscopic, oxidizing or other air sensitive materials may be packaged under argon or vacuum. Solutions are packaged in polypropylene, plastic or glass jars up to palletized 2811 gallon liquid totes Special package is available on request.