Stainless steel is an iron-based alloy containing at least 10.5% chromium, which creates a self-healing passive surface layer that prevents rust and corrosion.

Key Characteristics & Properties

• Corrosion Resistance: The chromium content reacts with oxygen to form an invisible oxide film. This layer repairs itself instantly if scratched or damaged.

• High Strength & Durability: It offers high tensile strength and toughness, allowing it to absorb mechanical stress without fracturing.

• Temperature Resistance: It retains structural stability and strength at both very high heat and freezing cryogenic temperatures.

• Hygienic Surface: The non-porous finish resists bacteria growth and cleans easily, making it ideal for medical and food settings.

• Recyclability: The metal is environmentally friendly and fully recyclable.

Brass is a metal alloy made primarily of copper and zinc, valued for its high workability, corrosion resistance, and gold-like appearance.

Key Composition and Appearance

• Base Elements: Formed by combining copper (typically 55% to 95%) and zinc (5% to 45%).

• Color Variations: Higher copper content creates a rich, reddish-gold tone, while higher zinc content produces a bright yellow or silvery shade.

• Alloying Additives: Elements like lead, tin, or aluminum are often added to enhance strength, machinability, or marine durability

Physical and Mechanical Properties

• Workability: Highly malleable and ductile, making it exceptionally easy to cast, machine, stamp, and form into complex shapes.

• Low Friction: Exhibits low surface friction, ideal for moving parts.

• Conductivity: Offers good thermal and electrical conductivity, though lower than pure copper.

• Non-Magnetic: Non-ferromagnetic properties make it easy to separate for recycling and suitable for electronic applications.

• Spark Resistance: Does not produce sparks upon impact, ensuring safety in explosive or flammable environments.

Chemical and Special Properties

• Corrosion Resistance: Resists moisture and general atmospheric corrosion well, though specific high-zinc grades can suffer from dezincification in certain conditions unless inhibited by additives.

• Antimicrobial: Inherently bactericidal; copper-alloy surfaces continuously inhibit and kill microorganisms like bacteria over a few hours of contact.