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C3604 is a Japanese Standard (JIS) leaded brass known for its excellent machinability. It typically contains 57-61% Copper, 1.8-3.7% Lead, and the remainder is Zinc. The high lead content acts as a lubricant and chip breaker, making it the premier choice for high-speed CNC machining and automatic lathe operations. When sourcing, ensure the tensile strength is ≥335 N/mm² and elongation is ≥15% to guarantee structural integrity.
Quality verification should focus on chemical composition analysis via a Mill Test Certificate (MTC). For buyers in the EU or US, compliance with RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) is critical; however, since C3604 contains lead, you must ensure it falls under Exemption 6(c) for copper alloys. Always request a SGS or TUV third-party lab report to confirm that lead levels do not exceed the specific regulatory thresholds for your target market.
Due to its superior cutting performance and dimensional stability, C3604 is widely used in the production of precision hardware, bolts, nuts, valves, and electrical connectors. It is particularly favored in the automotive, electronics, and plumbing industries where complex shapes and tight tolerances are required. Its natural corrosion resistance also makes it suitable for decorative architectural hardware and marine fittings.
Pricing is primarily driven by the LME (London Metal Exchange) copper and zinc spot prices. B2B buyers should look for suppliers who offer transparent pricing formulas based on raw material indices plus a fabrication fee. To optimize costs, consider standardizing diameters to avoid custom tooling charges and aim for bulk orders exceeding 500kg to reduce the per-unit logistics cost. Made-in-China.com provides access to numerous manufacturers who offer competitive tiered pricing for large-scale procurement.
The most significant risk is material substitution, where a supplier might provide a lower-grade alloy (like C3602 or recycled scrap brass) that lacks the necessary machinability. Another risk is weight discrepancies; brass is heavy and expensive, so ensure the invoiced weight matches the actual scale weight. To mitigate this, use Trade Assurance services and insist on a pre-shipment inspection (PSI) to verify both chemical composition and quantity.
Focus negotiations on lead time guarantees and raw material price hedging. Ask the supplier if they maintain a buffer stock of raw billets to protect against sudden market spikes. For long-term contracts, negotiate a price adjustment clause that reflects fluctuations in the copper market. Establishing a relationship with Gold Suppliers on Made-in-China.com who have verified factory audits can ensure a more reliable supply chain.
Brass is susceptible to surface oxidation and physical denting. Ensure the supplier uses seaworthy packaging, such as wrapping rods in VCI (Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor) paper or plastic film, followed by reinforced wooden crates. For shipping to distant regions, specify FOB (Free On Board) terms if you have a trusted freight forwarder, or CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) if you want the supplier to handle the risk until the destination port.
Always use secure payment methods such as Letters of Credit (L/C) for large volumes or Escrow-based systems for initial orders. Avoid direct wire transfers to private accounts. Verify the supplier's business license and export permits through the Made-in-China.com audit reports to ensure you are dealing with a legitimate manufacturer rather than an unregulated middleman.
