A pneumatic ram assigned to scale-breaking in an induction furnace
application at temperatures in excess of 200°C gave its manufacturer,
Norgren, cause to consider the construction of the controlling poppet
valve. Brass appeared to be the material of choice, because of its
corrosion resistance, high degree of self-lubricity and non-magnetic
nature. Its machinability also helped, as existing Norgren designs in
brass had to be modified in order to withstand the thermal stresses of
the furnace application. For information about brass, its alloys and
uses, call the Copper Development Association.