ASTM B140/B140M-22

Overview

ASTM B140/B140M-22 is the internationally recognized standard specification issued by ASTM International for copper-zinc-lead alloys, specifically leaded red brass and hardware bronze rod, bar, and shapes. This specification covers products made from UNS Alloy Nos. C31400, C31600, and C32000, which are widely used in general manufacturing and automatic screw machine applications. The document establishes material, chemical, mechanical, and dimensional requirements to ensure consistent quality and performance in various industrial uses.

Key Topics

• Copper-Zinc-Lead Alloys: Defines the chemical composition for alloys C31400, C31600, and C32000, also known as leaded red brass or hardware bronze.
• Product Forms: Specifies requirements for rod, bar, and shaped products intended primarily for machining processes.
• Tempers: Covers three tempers - O60 (soft anneal), H02 (half-hard), and H04 (hard) - to meet different mechanical property needs.
• Physical & Mechanical Properties: Establishes minimum criteria for tensile and yield strength, elongation, and other mechanical properties.
• Dimensional and Tolerance Controls: Sets standard tolerances for mass, diameter, length, straightness, and shape.
• Testing & Certification: Outlines guidelines for chemical and mechanical testing methods, product marking, and certification.
• International Compliance: Conforms to global standardization principles as outlined by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

Applications

ASTM B140/B140M-22 is essential for industries and manufacturers using leaded brass alloys where machinability, consistency, and regulatory compliance are required. This standard ensures:

• Screw Machine Products: The alloys covered are ideal for high-speed, automatic screw machining where component precision is crucial.
• General Hardware Manufacturing: Frequently used to produce plumbing, electrical hardware, connectors, and fasteners due to the alloys’ excellent machinability and mechanical strength.
• Custom Machined Components: Suitable for a wide array of custom bars, rods, or shapes needed in appliance, automotive, and industrial machinery sectors.
• Government & Defense Procurement: The specification is approved for use by U.S. Department of Defense agencies, aligning with public sector procurement standards.

Related Standards

ASTM B140/B140M-22 references and complements a range of other industry standards, including:

• ASTM B249/B249M: Covers general requirements for wrought copper and copper alloy products.
• ASTM B601: Provides the classification for temper designations within copper alloys.
• ASTM B846: Establishes standard terminology for copper and copper alloys.
• ASTM E8/E8M: Specifies test methods for tension testing of metallic materials to assess mechanical properties.
• ASTM E478: Outlines procedures for the chemical analysis of copper alloys.

By adhering to ASTM B140/B140M-22, organizations ensure compliance with industry best practices for copper-zinc-lead (leaded red brass and hardware bronze) products. This not only promotes safety and reliability but also assures product compatibility and quality in global markets. For optimal implementation, review related ASTM documents and ensure full alignment with procurement and manufacturing requirements.

Keywords: copper-zinc-lead alloy, leaded red brass rod, hardware bronze bar, ASTM B140/B140M, C31400, C31600, C32000, screw machine applications, engineering standards, machining alloys, material specification.