New Low Lead Brass
Requirements Effective 2014

What this change means for your company

New Regulations

On January 4, 2014, new Safe Drinking Water Act standards will go into effect, lowering the allowable lead content of wetted surfaces in drinking water pipes, pipe fittings and plumbing fixtures. Previously, brass with up to 8% of lead (by weight) was permitted for use in components of drinking water systems. After January 4, that specification will be revised to less than or equal to 0.25% lead (by weight).

States may adopt regulations that are more stringent than federal requirements. Check with the states where your parts are being installed to determine their requirements.

Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act
U.S. Senate Bill No. S.3874

California Lead Free Law
California Health and Safety Code (Section 116875 – 116880)

Louisiana Lead Free Law
Louisiana House Bill HB.471 (2011); Act No; 362

Maryland Lead Free Law
Maryland HB.372

Vermont Lead Free Law
Vermont Statute, Title 9, Chapter 63: 2470h

Effects on Manufacturing

Each manufacturer should review the new legislation and the implications for their business. Machining non lead and low lead brass is often a slower process than machining standard leaded brass and may result in capacity issues for some manufacturers. If you manufacture any of the following items that came in contact with drinking water, you should consider KKSP Precision Machining for your brass parts.

  • Pipes, pipe hoses and pipe fittings
  • Gaskets and other joining materials
  • Water meters
  • In line valves
  • Filters
  • Faucets
  • Drinking fountains
  • And more

Why KKSP

KKSP operates nearly 425 machines in four TS/ISO certified plants, and we have plenty of capacity to take on your “no lead” or “low lead” component manufacturing. We have considerable experience machining no lead and low lead brasses. In particular, we are well versed in requirements to comply with stringent Dezincification and Stress Corrosion Cracking criteria.

Where a change to non leaded or low leaded brass is required, KKSP Precision Machining can provide machined parts manufactured to meet your exact specifications on time.

Contact us today to find out how we can meet your manufacturing needs.


630.260.1735