Characterization of subsurface deformation of turned brasses: lead brass (CuZn39Pb3) and lead free brass (CuZn21Si3P)

Abstract

The adverse effects of lead on human health and the recycling problems of copper alloys with lead content has led to the increase in concern for reducing/eliminating the use of lead in brass and other copper alloys. The real challenge prevails in sustainable manufacturing of lead free brass and to maintain as well as control the surface integrity when lead is substituted in the brass with silicon. This article is part of the study that focuses on characterizing the surface integrity of machined lead brass and lead free brass. This paper deals with the study of surface layer characteristics of brass samples, investigating the subsurface deformation influenced by the turning operation. It is important to study the plastic deformation under the machined surface which directly affects the performance of the material on further machining or application. In this study, metallographic investigations are performed on turned samples of lead brass and lead free brass and include comparisons between the study samples based on the plastic deformations quantified by grain orientations and microhardness measurements. The study performed successfully characterizes the subsurface deformation and the results suggest slightly higher subsurface deformation in turned lead brass as compared to lead free brass.