Development of a Dezincification-Free Alloy System for the Manufacturing of Brass Instruments

Conventionally used brass alloy CuZn30 shows problems with corrosion resistance in the form of dezincification when used in brass instruments. Therefore, within the scope of this investigation, a new brass alloy CuZn30 is developed in the microalloy range with corrosion-free or corrosion-inhibiting properties. First, the influence of microalloying elements on the phase composition is investigated by simulation using Thermo-Calc. On the basis of this, suitable alloying elements and contents are selected and a modified CuZn30X alloy with 0.1% phosphorus, tin, and nickel in mass fractions, respectively, is produced. The modified alloy is then investigated with regard to its mechanical and microstructural composition and its corrosion properties. The corrosion properties were examined using stress corrosion cracking tests, dezincification tests, and the recording of polarization curves. The modified alloy exhibited good cold and hot rolling properties as well as good corrosion resistance. The dezincification test confirmed the improved corrosion resistance of the modified CuZn30X alloy, which is attributed to the formation of a protective top layer due to the alloying elements.