Construction Industry/Red Brass Bolts

Advertisement

Expert: - 1/29/2010


Question
Is red brass used in the manufacturing of "grade 8" bolts, for use it bolting together beams,frames for metal buildings of commercial use?

Answer
Hello Jim

Red Brass is also known as gunmetal , is a type of bronze alloy (copper, tin, and zinc).  Originally used chiefly for making guns, gunmetal has been superseded by steel.  Gunmetal is resistant to corrosion from steam and salt water, and is thus suitable for valves, pump parts and steam fittings.

Steel bolts and rivets are used for the assembly of a steel frame building. I rather doubt that gunmetal (red brass) is used in construction.  The specifications for shear, expansion, etc. would not qualify red brass in the current building codes.

I hope this is helpful.

Roger
Ask The Contractor  

Construction Industry

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Roger Zona

Expertise

I am experienced in all types of construction: residential, industrial and commercial; single family, multi-family, mid-rise and high rise buildings (16 story office building) as well as remodeling, additions and tenant improvements. I can field most any question that relates to general construction. I have consulted with infrastructure (utility) contractors also and have a good general knowledge of underground utility construction for subdivisions and commercial projects.

Experience

After college, I began my career in the construction industry. I chose to become an apprentice Architect and 4 yrs later I opened my own architectural design firm. Six years later I moved to Florida to buy & develop land and build. I became a State of Florida Certified General Contractor and operated my business for 45 years. I built all types of residential and commercial buildings including warehouses, shopping centers, high rise apartments and office buildings and developed sites for other contractors. I retired and became a consultant to the construction industry. I maintain my license and continuing education requirements, operate a small construction company and write a weekly newspaper column for the Palm Beach Post (a Cox publication) with the byline "Ask The Contractor". I am the "technical editor" for a publisher of books that relate to home maintenance.

Organizations
Previously - NAHA Currently - FLCA (Florida Licensed Contractors Assoc.)

Publications
Palm Beach Post newspaper - weekly Q & A column Happy Herald monthly real estate publication - monthly column

Education/Credentials
Michigan State University University of Detroit BS in Engineering

Past/Present Clients
I built a home in Palm Beach for a member of the Pulitzer Family. I was responsible for the completion of a twin hi-rise condominium project for G.E. Credit. I was a partner in the successful development of a P.U.D. (Planned Urban Development) subdivision. I represented the largest home builder from France (Bati Service, S.A.) in the development of a subdivision and the design and construction of the homes.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.