Oftentimes scrappers ask us about the difference between yellow and red brass, but Marine Brass is another material we have been asked about before. Marine Brass confuses many people because they think it is just as good…or better than normal yellow brass. Let’s debunk that myth.
What Is Marine Brass?
Marine brass is often found on boats and ships and is a type of brass metal with hardener, like nickel or iron, to make it stronger. While some types of brass come off of ships that are better than normal Yellow Brass, the secret to marine brass is the hardness of it. The propellors on larger boats and many other pieces of Brass on the ship are put to a much harder and more grueling task by navigating the waters.
Where Can You Find Marine Brass?
The brass on the bottom of the ships (including the anchor many times) has a hardener in it like nickel or even iron to help ensure that it is more durable and can withstand the things that it encounters while in the water. If the boat or ship travels in salt water, many elements can and will corrode the metal, so it’s important to ensure that the propellors and anchors can withstand the elements.
*Remember brass is an alloy to begin with as copper and zinc mixed. When you are also adding nickel or iron to it, it will bring the copper’s value down slightly.*
How Do You Scrap Marine Brass?
Marine brass is a great item to scrap, but many people think it is all Bronze when it is often a different alloy. Your scrap yards should be able to help you figure out what it is if they have an analyzer on location to see what materials are inside. If you aren’t sure about the metals you have or what they are made up of, join our Facebook Group we made for like-minded scrappers and ask for their opinion. They may have a good idea or some valuable personal experience.
Bon Voyage Scrappers!!!
