Kledenheim

Klegenheim · Sep 16, 2015

I am new to the US

and am planning my second clock. Can anyone help with the source of suitable brass sheet also round bar etc. In the UK the correct brass is called Cz120 (also in the past called "compo" brass) and I would be grateful if anyone can give me the equivalent here in the US?

Thanks!

kquiggle · Sep 16, 2015

If I understand correctly, CZ120 is what is known as "engraver's brass". According to Online Metals the US equivalent would be C353000 - see this link: http://www.onlinemetals.com/merchant.cfm?id=86&step=2&top_cat=79

You can find an extensive list of metals suppliers here:

https://sites.google.com/site/lagadoacademy/useful-links#metals

Tin Falcon · Sep 18, 2015

Yes you need to look for C353/ C35300
AKA clock brass. or engravers brass.
http://www.ajoster.com/sites/default/files/downloads/C-35300_B121_CLOCK-BRASS_LEADED-BRASS_AJ-OSTER.pdf

Mcmaster car has a good selection but likely not the best prices. Although not terrible.

http://www.mcmaster.com/#standard-brass-alloy-sheets/=yzx10m

360 is pretty much the standard for machinable brass rod.
http://www.use-enco.com/CGI/INPDFF?PMPAGE=839&PARTPG=INLMK32

Enco is a couple dollars a piece cheaper than mcmaster carr but they only sell 6ft lengths.

For short pieces check out
http://hobbymetalkits.com/documents/brass.htm

Hobby metals supports the hobby I buy a handful or two or three of material from him once a year at the CF show.

Tin

MrTin · Sep 19, 2015

Whilst I know nothing of what's available in the States, I'm sure there are plenty of engravers around, doing company wall plates, control panels, etc. Used to use pantograph engraving machines, but now use computerised things. Anyway, they always have offcuts of engraving quality brass which they'll sell you by weight. I always buy my CZ120 that way.
Also called silicon brass, leaded brass, half hard, etc. Free cutting and a lovely light colour. I have made nearly 500 brass patterns for the model kit industry from this stuff, all polished and all looking sweeter than gold when newly finished.

Old clocks though,....well I heard the plates were once made from what I call "yellow brass". I hate the stuff, but if that's period correct, I understand that there are suppliers of that in Birmingham. Not sure about the States, though.

Cheers,
Martin

Tin Falcon · Sep 19, 2015

Another factor is where are you located ?
Try to find a metal supplier that is close.
USPS flat rate boxes can be your friend.
Where possible I buy metal local or at least within driving distance.
the internet will allow you to comparison shop pricing.

McMaster Carr Is More geared to the industrial market. But they have a huge selection and I get what i need overnight at ups ground rates. They also offer will call service . place a phone order and pick it up in an hour. I have even showed up at will call placed an order via courtesy phone and had my couple items in hand in less than half an hour. They do not have counter service perse and are not a pick off the shelf retail but excellent service. Last but not least IMHO one of the most usable web pages I have seen.

MSC is also good and fast but not usually cheap. Again overnight service.

Enco is good better pricing but it takes a few days to get an order.

Of course shipping times vary with location weather time of year etc.
Tin