Definition

1. Noun:
   • A specific type of brass alloy: "high brass" refers to a category of brass that contains approximately 35% zinc by weight, with the remainder being primarily copper. This composition gives it distinct mechanical properties, such as good ductility and strength, making it suitable for specific applications like cartridge cases, springs, and certain types of plumbing fixtures.

Usage

• "High brass" is a technical term used primarily in metallurgy, manufacturing, and engineering contexts. It is a count noun (e.g., , ) when referring to different batches or types, but is often used as a mass noun to refer to the material in general.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The cartridge was manufactured from high brass for its superior strength.
  • This valve requires a specific high brass with exactly 35% zinc content.
  • Compared to low brass, high brass is less malleable but more resistant to wear.

Advanced Usage

• Technical Specification: In material specifications, "high brass" precisely denotes the copper-zinc alloy within a specific compositional range, often around 30-40% zinc, with 35% being a common standard.
  • The engineering drawing specified the component must be made from high brass (CuZn35).

Variants and Related Words

• Brass (n): The general family of copper-zinc alloys.
• Low Brass (n): A brass alloy with a lower zinc content (typically around 20% zinc), which is softer and more malleable.
• Cartridge Brass (n): A specific type of high brass (typically CuZn30) historically used for ammunition cartridges.
• Alpha Brass (n): A technical term for brass with a zinc content below approximately 35-37%, where the alloy has a single-phase microstructure. High brass often falls into this category.

Synonyms

• CuZn35 (n): The chemical/technical designation for this alloy composition.
• 35% Zinc Brass (n): A descriptive synonym.

Antonyms

• Low Brass (n): A brass alloy with a significantly lower zinc content (e.g., 10-20% zinc).

Noun

1. brass with 35% zinc