Failure analysis of a hot stamped CuZn40Pb2 brass hydraulic component

CuZn40Pb2 brass is a Cu-Zn-Pb alloy widely used in hydraulic applications due to its high formability, good machinability and suitable resistance to aqueous corrosion. This study investigated the failure of a CuZn40Pb2 brass hydraulic component due to water leakage when it was put in service. This failure analysis was performed using X-Ray Fluorescence spectroscopy to verify the chemical composition of the component, optical microscopy to analyze the microstructure and scanning electron microscopy to identify the fracture mechanism. The results, combined with the detailed examination of production process, showed that post-manufacturing steps must be carefully conducted to avoid damaging the components. Therefore, the root cause of the examined failure was detected, leading to recommendation for process improvements to prevent future occurrences.