Aluminum is used for producing a variety of components, such as hose ferrules, bezels, electrical items and probes. It is a good choice for components where corrosion resistance is required. The strength and durability vary widely among the aluminum alloys available for the deep draw process. We work primarily with 1000, 3000, and 6000 series. 1000 series aluminum has good corrosion resistance, but lower mechanical properties. 3000 is used for components that need to be anodized. 6000 aluminum is best for post heat treating processes when wanting something a bit harder. Aluminum can be heat treated or anodized for corrosion protection. During the anodizing process, the parts can be colored to achieve just about any color desired.

Brass is primarily all compositions of copper and zinc. In most cases, we may recommend 85/15 to avoid parts cracking later on. Brass is commonly used in personal small appliances, sensors, probe tips, covers for sensors, hose ferrules, and fire extinguishers. Many brass parts are nickel plated to prevent corrosion in the field.

Copper is typically used in the HVAC and plumbing industries for components such as bulbs for thermostatic expansion valves and a multitude of fittings. Copper Alloys 110 and 122 are commonly used in these industries depending upon the application. Copper Alloy 110 refers to electrolytic (ETP) copper which demonstrates high levels of electrical and thermal conductivity. While Alloy 122 (DHP) has similar characteristics, it also exhibits superior weldability and brazing capabilities. This is one of our primary materials.

There are two principal alloys we use: 1008 and 1010. There are similarities in the chemistry and most of the time one is interchangeable for the other. Most components currently created with low carbon steel are for automotive applications. It has a tendency to rust, so most parts get some type of plating to preserve the part – typically a zinc plating over the top.

The majority of the parts we produce are stainless steel. We have a long history of producing parts from various stainless steel alloys which have allowed us to develop unique and tailored methods for working with the material. It is utilized for hand tools, soldering irons, speed sensors for axles, wheels, torch tips for flame torches, and soot sensors for automobiles. There are 3 basic compositions for stainless steel that we primarily utilize: 304, 305, and 310. The ideal nickel composition for the job is based on a variety of factors such as weldability, ductility and price.