Mitsubishi Shindoh Co., Ltd. (President: Kazumasa Hori; capital: 8.7 billion yen; "Mitsubishi Shindoh") has begun mass production of ECO BRASS® ECO-CR, which has good corrosion resistance.
The ECO BRASS® series are lead-free brass with excellent machinability. Mitsubishi Shindoh launched ECO BRASS® in 2002. Cumulative worldwide sales reached 300,000 tons in May this year. Mitsubishi Shindoh reduced lead usage by a total of 9,000 tons and contributed to reducing environmental impact. In 2015, Mitsubishi Shindoh added SnECO®, which has better erosion resistance (mechanical erosion resistance) in flowing water environments. In response to market needs, Mitsubishi Shindoh has launched ECO-CR, which has much better corrosion resistance (chemical corrosion resistance). ECO-CR is reliable in corrosive environments, such as plumbing. It has corrosion resistance that is equal to or better than that of dezincification-resistant brass. It complies with the European Norm (CW724R*). It has passed the stringent criteria of major faucet manufacturers and has been certified as a material for their use. Taking advantage of the high hydrogen embrittlement resistance of copper alloys, Mitsubishi Shindoh is developing high-strength ECO BRASS® that is wear resistant and can be used for hydrogen-high-pressure valves. High-strength ECO BRASS® is as strong as austenitic stainless steel and makes the weight-reduction of components. It also has good machinability. It is thus expected to cost reduction. Unlike lead-free Bi-Brass, which does not comply with the European Norm, the ECO BRASS® series are lead-free brass that complies with a wide range of environmental regulations, including the EU's RoHS and ELV directives. While supplying the ECO BRASS® series, which has good corrosion resistance and high strength, Mitsubishi Shindoh will work to propose cutting conditions for efficient machining.
Mitsubishi Shindoh aims to become the leading business group committed to creating a sustainable world through materials innovation using unique and distinctive technologies for people, society and the Earth, in accordance with its long-term management policy. It will continue to contribute to society through product development based on original technologies.
*A copper alloy specified by the European Committee for Standardization. The zinc content, silicon content and lead content are 21%, 3% and maximum 0.1%, respectively.
