Red Brass vs. Yellow Brass: How to Easily Tell the Difference

If you’re a scrap metal collector, plumber, or metalworker, knowing how to identify red brass vs. yellow brass can help you maximize your profits. While both types of brass look similar, they have key differences in color, composition, weight, and value. This beginner-friendly guide will help you quickly and easily tell them apart.

What Is the Difference Between Red Brass and Yellow Brass?

The main difference is the copper content:

• Red brass has around 85% copper, giving it a darker, reddish appearance.
  
• Yellow brass contains 30-40% zinc, making it brighter and more golden in color.

By understanding these differences, you can sort and sell your scrap metal more effectively.
1. Color: The Quickest Way to Identify Brass

• Red Brass – Has a reddish-brown or copper-like hue due to its high copper content.
  
• Yellow Brass – Appears bright yellow or golden because of its higher zinc content.

Pro Tip:

Compare two pieces side by side under natural light. Red brass will always look darker than yellow brass.
2. Magnet Test: Is It Really Brass?

• Neither red nor yellow brass is magnetic.
  
• If a magnet sticks, the item is likely brass-plated steel rather than solid brass.

Pro Tip:

Use a strong magnet to check if your metal is pure brass before selling it as scrap.
3. Weight: Red Brass Is Heavier

• Red brass is slightly heavier due to its higher copper content.
  
• Yellow brass is lighter because zinc is less dense than copper.

Pro Tip:

If you have a scale, weigh two similar-sized pieces. The heavier one is likely red brass.
4. Spark Test (For Advanced Identification)

• Grinding red brass produces shorter, fewer sparks.
  
• Yellow brass creates more, brighter sparks because of its zinc content.

Caution:

Only perform a spark test if you have experience using a grinder safely.
5. Common Uses: Where to Find Red and Yellow Brass

Red Brass Is Commonly Found In:

• Old plumbing pipes and fittings
  
• Sprinkler heads and valves
  
• Industrial machinery parts

Yellow Brass Is Commonly Used In:

• Household plumbing fixtures (faucets, valves)
  
• Keys
  
• Bullet casings
  
• Musical instruments (trumpets, saxophones)

Pro Tip:

If you find an old reddish-colored pipe fitting, it’s probably red brass. If it’s bright yellow, it’s likely yellow brass.
6. Scrap Value: Which One Is Worth More?

• Red brass is more valuable because it has a higher copper content.
  
• Yellow brass is still profitable, but it’s worth less per pound.

Pro Tip:

Most scrap yards pay higher prices for red brass, so separating your metals correctly can increase your earnings.
Final Thoughts: How to Tell Red Brass from Yellow Brass

By checking color, weight, magnetism, and common sources, you can quickly identify and separate red vs. yellow brass. This knowledge will help you increase your scrap metal profits and avoid selling valuable metals for less than they’re worth.

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