Structural and Mechanical Properties of CuZn30 Cartridge Brass in Real Production Conditions

Abstract

The paper deals with the technology of production of deep-drawn plates from alpha brass CuZn30. Surface and hidden defects are often observed in these deep-drawn sheets. The research was aimed at reducing the occurrence of these defects and subsequently reducing scrap and increasing the quality of these metallurgical products with a tighter tolerance of the required structural and mechanical properties throughout the length and width of the sheets. The production technology was monitored from the preparation of the batch and casting parameters on the existing operating equipment, through the processing of the ingots by hot and cold rolling, to the recrystallization annealing of the sheets in coils in a hatch furnace and the subsequent continuous pickling and passivation of the final strips. Properties were monitored after each technological operation of production. Specifically, macrostructure, microstructure, microporosity, tensile mechanical properties, and hardness were analysed. The results showed that the chosen production technology has sufficient homogeneity of properties.