Will1717 - Posted - 09/08/2010:  08:54:35

Any metal eperts out there that can answer this question? I've been using what I thought was a 360 grade Brass to build my brass hooks from but for some reason I've been having an increasing number of failures. The hooks are breaking at the bend line. I can only assume that the original brass that I was shipped was a softer brass than 360 as it had good forming properties. Does anyone know what grade of brass is best to use for cold forming????

Bill Rickard

Edited by - Will1717 on 09/08/2010 08:55:39

RBuddy - Posted - 09/08/2010:  09:33:25

Hi Bill

I'm definitely not a metallurgist or expert of any kind so take this input accordingly. But I suspect maybe the 360 might be too hard and and not taking the hook bend without some level of occasional fracture developing in some bends.

Here is some basic info I found interesting. Maybe the 330 alloy would work better. McMaster Carr may even be able to give you exactly the info you need with a phone call.

mcmaster.com/#brass-alloy-rods/=8rbs0y

Good luck
Brian

beegee - Posted - 09/08/2010:  09:34:05

To overcome the problem, AMB is selling cast brass hooks. They sent me some raw castings. Expensive, but supposedly strong.

NeilTurner - Posted - 09/08/2010:  10:54:58

Hi Bill,

According to what I've read you need alloy 260 or 330 for formability.

Steven M - Posted - 09/08/2010:  12:14:32

Can't you heat up with a blow torch and then quench. I am sure that would solve your problem (caveat, I am not a metallurgist)

Eugene - Posted - 09/08/2010:  13:26:22

If I remember well our metallurgy class 40 years back ..
you'll need a lead (Pb) free alloy, copper (Cu) + some 20 to 38 % of tinn (Sn).
Lead is only added for easier machining (Lathe turning, milling, drilling and such)

For combined purposes, a very small amount of Pb can be added (less than .5 %) which could help for easier threading, still, the most difficult part is bending that hook ...
260 alloy should work but i'm not familliar with the US norms ..

beegee - Posted - 09/08/2010:  13:33:48

quote:

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Originally posted by Steven M

Can't you heat up with a blow torch and then quench. I am sure that would solve your problem (caveat, I am not a metallurgist)

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