Study on microstructure and properties of brass containing Sb and Mg

A novel free-cutting unleaded brass containing antimony and magnesium was prepared by gravity casting and hot extrusion. Microstructure of the hot extruded Sb-Mg brass was studied with scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS). Its mechanical properties were measured by tensile test, and cutting performance was investigated by lathe turning experiment. Results showed that microstructure of the hot extruded Sb-Mg brass was composed of α, β phases and Sb-Mg containing intermetallic compounds. The newly developed brass was compared with the HPb59-1 brass for its mechanical property. Its cutting performance was close to that of a German free-cutting unleaded brass. Sb-Mg brass has potential to replace HPb59-1 brass so as to reduce cost and protect environment.