Bronze vs Brass: How to Tell the Difference Before Selling

When it comes to scrap metal recycling, few materials confuse sellers as much as bronze and brass. At first glance, these metals look very similar: both are golden in colour, heavy, and commonly found in plumbing fixtures, decorative items, and machinery parts. However, if you’re selling to a scrap yard like Premier Metals in Perth, it’s crucial to know which one you have — because the value can vary significantly.

In this detailed guide, we’ll explain the key differences between bronze and brass, how to identify them, what affects their scrap prices, and why separating them properly matters when selling to a dealer.

Contact Premier Metals today to sell your scrap metals at the best price at 08 6252 8500

Why It’s Important to Tell the Difference

At Premier Metals, we often see sellers bring in a box of mixed brass and bronze, assuming they’re the same thing. The truth is:

• Bronze usually carries a slightly higher scrap value because of its higher copper content.
• Brass is more common in plumbing, electrical, and construction, so it’s often sold in larger quantities.
• Mixing the two can lead to lower payouts, since dealers must treat the lot as the lower-value metal.

By understanding the difference, you’ll get the best possible price for your scrap and make recycling more efficient.

Bronze vs Brass: Key Differences

Both bronze and brass are copper alloys, meaning they are primarily made of copper but mixed with other metals to give different properties.

• Bronze is mostly copper + tin (sometimes with other elements like aluminium or manganese).
• Brass is mostly copper + zinc (sometimes with small amounts of lead or other elements).

Here’s a quick breakdown:

How to Identify Bronze vs Brass in Scrap

If you’re unsure which type of metal you have, here are some practical tips:

1. Look at the Colour

• Bronze has a darker, reddish-brown tint.
• Brass appears more yellow or gold-like.

2. Do a Magnet Test

Both metals are non-magnetic. If your sample sticks to a magnet, it’s likely mixed with steel or iron.

3. Scratch Test

• Bronze is harder — scratching it requires more effort.
• Brass scratches more easily due to its softer composition.

4. Listen to the Sound

Tap the piece with a hammer or another piece of metal:

• Bronze makes a deep, muted sound.
• Brass makes a higher-pitched, ringing sound.

5. Check the Use Case

• Found in bearings, boat parts, statues? Likely bronze.
• Found in pipes, faucets, locks? Likely brass.

Scrap Prices: Bronze vs Brass

At Premier Metals in Perth, we base our prices on global commodity markets, local demand, and the grade of metal. While prices fluctuate daily, here’s a general idea of how bronze scrap and brass scrap values compare in Australia:

⚠️ Disclaimer: These prices are subject to change based on market conditions and regional variations. For the most up-to-date rates, always contact Premier Metals in Perth directly.

Why Bronze Is Usually Worth More

The higher copper content in bronze makes it more valuable at scrap yards. Copper is in high demand across industries like construction, electronics, and renewable energy. Since bronze is less commonly found compared to brass, it often carries a premium price.

That said, clean and well-sorted brass scrap can still fetch excellent returns — especially yellow brass and plumbing brass.

Common Sources of Bronze Scrap

You might not come across bronze as often, but here are typical sources:

• Bearings and bushings
• Marine equipment (propellers, ship fittings)
• Industrial machinery components
• Musical instruments (bells, cymbals)
• Sculptures and statues

Common Sources of Brass Scrap

Brass is more common in everyday items, especially in homes and construction:

• Plumbing pipes and taps
• Electrical connectors
• Locks and keys
• Decorative items and furniture fittings
• Car radiators and mechanical parts

How to Prepare Bronze and Brass for Sale

At Premier Metals, we recommend sorting and cleaning your scrap before selling. This ensures you get the highest payout possible.

1. Sort by Metal Type – Separate bronze and brass. Don’t mix them.
2. Remove Attachments – Take off steel, rubber, or plastic parts.
3. Clean the Metal – The cleaner your scrap, the better the price.
4. Bulk Sales – Selling in bulk (instead of small bits) often results in better rates.

The Role of Bronze & Brass Recycling in Perth’s Economy

Scrap recycling isn’t just about cash. It supports sustainability and reduces the need for mining.

• Recycling brass helps reduce demand for zinc and copper extraction.
• Recycling bronze supports industries like marine and heavy machinery.
• Both metals are infinitely recyclable without losing their properties.

At Premier Metals in Perth, we’re committed to reducing waste and ensuring that valuable metals are reused effectively in the circular economy.

FAQs

1. Is bronze always more valuable than brass?

Not always. While bronze typically has higher copper content, the actual value depends on purity, demand, and market prices. High-grade brass can sometimes fetch prices close to bronze.

2. Can I sell mixed bronze and brass together?

Yes, but it’s not recommended. Scrap yards will usually price the entire lot at the lower value metal (brass). For maximum returns, always separate them.

3. Do I need to clean bronze or brass before selling?

The cleaner the scrap, the better the payout. Removing paint, plastic, or steel attachments ensures you get the best price.

4. Where can I sell bronze and brass scrap in Perth?

You can bring your bronze, brass, and other metals directly to Premier Metals in Perth. We offer competitive prices, reliable service, and handle both small loads and bulk industrial scrap.