Brass Patent
Brass is an alloy metal comprised of copper and zinc that has a versatile character, making it an ideal material for a variety of industrial applications. This versatility and wide array of desirable properties are driving brass to the forefront of metalworking solutions. Brass is the material of choice particularly when it is necessary to form strong and accurate parts, machinery and fixtures quickly and cost effectively. Due to the fact that brass is so widely used in their production of metal goods, patents have been registered to protect the rights of individuals who develop innovative applications and products utilizing this alloy.
History of Brass
The predecessor of brass, bronze, dates back to 3500 B.C. Bronze is a copper and tin alloy that found its most common use in weaponry including swords, knives, arrowheads and shields. According to archaeological findings, bronze was first worked in China. The Romans and ancient Greeks refined bronze use by forging various shapes and its production by casting.
While the use of brass dates back to ancient times, the exact time of its origin is still largely unknown. However, it is believed that the production of brass is likely to be have originated in India. Brass was declared to be an alloy of copper and zinc by Agricola (also known as Georg Bauer) in his foundational work De Re Metallica, published in 1556.
Brass Use and Benefits
These days, brass is a popular material choice for applications in many different industries such as manufacturing and engineering, shipbuilding and construction, and architecture and design. It is also used in the production of many everyday goods, components and fixtures such as building and packaging material, locks, brass fountains, screws, bolt and nuts, plumbing fittings and internal parts of machines.
The benefits associated with the use of brass are numerous. Here are some of the most significant benefits of brass:
• Non-corrosive: Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, both of which are highly resistant to corrosion.
• Easily molded and shaped: Brass can be molded and shaped into a variety of shapes, making it ideal for use in construction, machinery and engineering.
• Durability: Brass is highly resistant to wear and tear, making it a durable material for use in the production of everyday goods and components.
• High thermal and electrical conductivity: Brass is a great conductor of heat and electricity, making it ideal for use in machines and components that rely on these properties.
• Economy: Brass is relatively inexpensive compared to other metals, making it a cost-effective choice for many applications.
Patents and Brass
Due to the increasing popularity of brass and its many benefits, patents have been registered to protect the rights of individuals who develop innovative applications and products utilizing this alloy. Examples of such patents are the Manley Brass Fitting Patent (#US649381A), Gledhills Three Cone Pulley Patent (#GB349855A), Applebys General Casting Patent (#US3122900A), and Trahans Lathe Chuck Patent (#US3400832A).
As the use of brass continues to grow and its applications become increasingly versatile, there is a high potential to continue registering patents. While this will provide inventors with recognition and some form of financial reward, it will also ensure that the market is kept competitive and that innovation continues to flourish.
