"Gun metal & DZR"
Question:
"I am looking for specifications that provides guidelines for using Gun metal, DZR or brass compression fittings in a house water supply network. What is the water specification which controlls the type of material used. Are there any set values beyond which the specifier shall shift from Brass to DZR fittings?"
Answer:
Two organizations involved in copper and copper alloys in potable water systems include The Copper Development Association (CDA) http://www.copper.org/ and the American Water Works Association (AWWA) http://www.awwa.org/. In addition, the EPA, based on the clean water act, sets limits on elements in copper alloys, i.e., lead. My personal opinion is that, where high zinc brasses are wanted (>15%), dezincification resistant brasses should be specified, whenever possible.