Brass fittings are widely used in various industries due to their durability, resistance to corrosion, and machinability. However, concerns about lead content in brass fittings, especially in applications involving drinking water, have raised questions about safety and compliance. At BORNIC, we take this issue very seriously and strictly adhere to all regulations to ensure our products meet the highest standards of safety.
The Composition of Brass and the Role of Lead
Brass is an alloy primarily composed of copper and zinc. In some cases, lead is added to improve machinability, making it easier to shape and produce intricate designs. Traditional brass fittings may contain up to 2-4% lead by weight, but this poses health risks when such fittings are used in systems that carry drinking water or food-related applications.
Lead can leach into water, particularly when exposed to corrosive or high-temperature environments. Even minimal exposure can have serious health consequences, such as cognitive impairments in children, cardiovascular issues in adults, and long-term kidney damage.
Regulations on Lead Content in Brass Fittings
To mitigate these risks, stringent regulations have been introduced globally to limit the allowable lead content in brass fittings:
- United States: The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) mandates a maximum of 0.25% lead content for plumbing materials used in potable water systems. Compliance with NSF/ANSI Standard 61 is required to ensure low lead leaching.
- European Union: The Drinking Water Directive enforces strict limits on lead in water, influencing the composition of plumbing fittings.
- Other Countries: Many nations have adopted similar standards, requiring low-lead or lead-free fittings for use in drinking water systems.
These regulations have encouraged the development of safer alternatives, such as low-lead and lead-free brass alloys.
BORNIC’s Approach to Compliance and Safety
At BORNIC, we are fully committed to meeting and exceeding these regulatory requirements. We recognize the importance of providing products that are both safe and environmentally friendly. Our efforts include:
- Using Low-Lead and Lead-Free Alloys:
- Our brass fittings are manufactured with materials that comply with global standards, containing less than 0.25% lead by weight or using lead-free alternatives such as bismuth or silicon brass.
- Certifications and Testing:
- All BORNIC fittings are tested and certified to meet international standards, such as NSF/ANSI 61 in the U.S. and equivalent certifications in other markets.
- Sustainability Focus:
- By transitioning to lead-free materials and eco-friendly manufacturing practices, we contribute to a healthier and safer environment.
Identifying Safe Brass Fittings
Customers can identify safe brass fittings by looking for certification marks such as NSF/ANSI 61-G or WRAS, which ensure compliance with low-lead or lead-free standards. At BORNIC, all our products are clearly labeled and supported with detailed documentation to give customers confidence in their safety and compliance.
Conclusion
The issue of lead in brass fittings is a critical concern, particularly in applications involving potable water. While traditional brass fittings may contain lead, regulations and advancements in material science have made safer alternatives widely available.
At BORNIC, we prioritize the health and well-being of our customers by strictly adhering to all regulations and utilizing the latest technologies to produce lead-free and low-lead brass fittings. By choosing BORNIC, you can be confident in the safety, quality, and sustainability of your plumbing solutions.
