A brass fittings price list is only useful if every line names the alloy, size, thread, finish and test. Most lists do not, so two lists for the same fitting can differ for reasons that have nothing to do with the maker's honesty.
We do not publish a brass fittings price list. This guide explains why lists mislead and what to send so that suppliers quote the same thing.
Why do brass fitting price lists mislead?
A list is a snapshot. It is tied to a copper price, a date and an assumed order size. When copper moves or you order a different quantity, the list no longer applies.
A list also hides the specification. The same-looking fitting can be made from different alloys, with different wall thicknesses, different threads and different plating. Cheaper does not mean the same fitting for less.
What must the specification fix?
Write the following into your enquiry so that every quote is for the same fitting:
- The alloy as a standard designation, for example a forging brass or a bar brass grade, and the lead limit if the fitting touches drinking water in your market.
- The thread standard, such as BSP, NPT or metric, and the tolerance class.
- Dimensions and wall thickness, or the drawing.
- The finish, such as natural, nickel or chrome plated, and the plating thickness.
- The pressure test: air or water, and whether every piece is tested.
- Marking, packing and labelling requirements.
What are the real cost drivers?
Brass is mostly copper and zinc, so the metal market sets a large share of the cost. Our article on how the copper price affects brass component costs explains the link.
The process also matters. Hot forging then machining, machining from bar and casting give different weight, scrap and tooling costs. Our guide to how brass components are priced, per kg or per piece explains why a per-kilogram figure can mislead.
Other drivers are plating, testing, order size, packing and tooling. Forging dies and machining fixtures are one-time costs that may be charged separately.
How do you compare brass fitting quotes?
Ask every supplier to quote the same specification and to state the copper price date, validity period and tooling terms. Put the replies side by side and check the alloy, finish and test in each. Our guide to comparing engineering quotes can help.
Then order samples before you commit. Test the alloy, fit the thread gauges and pressure test a sample. A low quote that fails the pressure test is not a low quote.
If you are still looking for a maker, read finding a brass component or fittings manufacturer in India.
Check the minimum order quantity and the pack size too. Some suppliers quote a low rate only above a high minimum, and others charge extra for small lots. State the quantity you really expect in the first year and ask for the rate at that level. Ask also whether plating is done in-house, because outside plating adds time and a second quality check.
Next step
To get comparable quotes for your fittings, book a free sourcing review. We ask makers for offers against one specification and have the samples tested before you order.