FDA
FDA 21 CFR 1040.10 - Laser Product Performance Standards
Yi-Chun LinPh.D.Taiwan
Laser Materials ProcessingPublished
Dec 16, 2025
Brass Laser Cleaning
Brass, as non-ferrous metal, shows high reflectivity during laser cleaning, so treatment removes surface oxidation and contamination from marine or plumbing uses without deep substrate damage. Because of its good corrosion resistance and thermal shock tolerance, process restores uniformity on surfaces effectively, and this sets brass apart from ferrous alternatives that suffer more from heat buildup.
Laser-Material Interaction
Absorption Coefficient
6.7e6
m⁻¹
5.9e5
6.7e6
9.9e7
Absorptivity
0.38
0.02
0.38
0.6
Laser Damage Threshold
0.45
J/cm²
0.27
0.45
1.6e4
Reflectivity
0.62
dimensionless (ratio)
0.35
0.62
1
Thermal Destruction Point
920
°C
133
920
3,865
Thermal Shock Resistance
180
°C
6.7
180
3.8e5
Vapor Pressure
1.3
Pa
0
1.3
1.1e5
Thermal Destruction
1,194
K
256
1,194
3,859
Laser Reflectivity
0.94
0.4
0.94
73.5
Thermal Expansion
1.9e-5
10^{-6}/K
4e-6
1.9e-5
31.7
Thermal Conductivity
109
W/m·K
7.4
109
450
Specific Heat
385
J/(kg·K)
43.4
385
1,905
Laser Absorption
0.12
0.02
0.12
4.2e8
Thermal Diffusivity
3.3e-5
m²/s
2e-6
3.3e-5
0
Ablation Threshold
2.1
J/cm²
0.09
2.1
4.3
Brass Laser Cleaning Material Characteristics
Electrical Conductivity
1.6e7
S/m
6.6e5
1.6e7
6.6e7
Electrical Resistivity
6.2e-8
Ω·m
0
6.2e-8
2e-6
Fracture Toughness
52
MPa√m
0.67
52
157
Surface Roughness
1.6
μm
0.02
1.6
6.6
Density
8,530
kg/m³
1.7
8,530
9,408
Oxidation Resistance
478
K
-554
478
1,762
Youngs Modulus
110
GPa
10.4
110
2e11
Hardness
65
HB
0.2
65
3,500
Compressive Strength
345
MPa
8
345
2,625
Tensile Strength
315
MPa
3
315
3,000
Flexural Strength
379
MPa
11.4
379
2,897
Corrosion Resistance
0.75
dimensionless (0-1 scale)
-1.1
0.75
1.1e6
Porosity
0
%
0
0
15
Boiling Point
2,013
K
929
2,013
6,454
Absorptivity
0.34
0.02
0.34
0.6
Absorption Coefficient
8e7
m^{-1}
5.9e5
8e7
9.9e7
Reflectivity
0.92
0.35
0.92
1
Vapor Pressure
25.3
Pa
0
25.3
1.1e5
Melting Point
930
°C
133
930
3,865
Thermal Destruction Point
1,193
K
133
1,193
3,865
Thermal Shock Resistance
150
K
6.7
150
3.8e5
Laser Damage Threshold
1.1
J/cm²
0.27
1.1
1.6e4
Thermal Destruction
1,194
K
256
1,194
3,859
Laser Reflectivity
0.94
0.4
0.94
73.5
Thermal Expansion
1.9e-5
10^{-6}/K
4e-6
1.9e-5
31.7
Thermal Conductivity
109
W/m·K
7.4
109
450
Specific Heat
385
J/(kg·K)
43.4
385
1,905
Laser Absorption
0.12
0.02
0.12
4.2e8
Thermal Diffusivity
3.3e-5
m²/s
2e-6
3.3e-5
0
Ablation Threshold
2.1
J/cm²
0.09
2.1
4.3
Brass surface magnification
Before Treatment
Under the microscope at high magnification, the brass surface looks clogged with thick, uneven layers of dirt and oxidation. Dark smears and tiny debris spots disrupt the metal's natural sheen everywhere. Pits and scratches hide beneath this buildup, making the texture feel rough and dull.
After Treatment
After laser treatment, the same view reveals a smooth, even surface free of all contamination. Bright, reflective areas now dominate, with no traces of grime or spots left behind. The texture appears polished and uniform, restoring
Regulatory Standards & Compliance
ANSI
ANSI Z136.1 - Safe Use of Lasers
IEC
IEC 60825 - Safety of Laser Products
OSHA
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.95 - Personal Protective Equipment
Brass Laser Cleaning Laser Cleaning FAQs
Q: Brass: Frequently Asked Questions
A: Brass consists of an alloy that combines copper and zinc. Manufacturers produce it in various compositions to suit different needs. This metal serves in plumbing fittings, electrical components, and decorative hardware due to its corrosion resistance and machinability.
What are the key physical properties of brass?
Brass offers good electrical conductivity at roughly 15,900,000 siemens per meter. Its electrical resistivity measures about 6.2 × 10⁻⁸ ohm-meters. These values make it suitable for connectors and wiring in industrial settings. The material also shows moderate strength and ductility, which allows shaping without cracking.
How does brass perform in industrial applications?
Industries use brass for valves, gears, and instruments where durability matters. Its low friction reduces wear in moving parts. Yet, exposure to harsh environments can lead to tarnish over time.
What laser cleaning settings apply to brass?
Laser cleaning removes oxidation and contaminants from brass surfaces. Operators typically select a power range of 100 watts for effective results. This process restores the metal's appearance without damaging the substrate. It exposes clean layers beneath dirt buildup. In practice, short pulses help control heat input and prevent warping. Brass responds well to this method in restoration work for antiques or machinery parts.
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