CommentStreams:45be2c8d52b18635c11d88b23c679e95

Alright, I figured it out:

Mechanical strength – Pure copper is very soft and malleable. Under repeated tightening, it would deform or strip. Brass (copper + zinc, sometimes with a trace of lead) is much harder and keeps threads intact. That’s important for standoffs which get screwed/unscrewed.

Corrosion resistance – Pure copper oxidizes rapidly (green patina). Brass resists tarnish better and maintains good contact over years without needing surface coatings.

Machinability – Adding zinc (and a small amount of lead in some brass alloys) makes the material much easier to machine precisely, especially for threaded parts. That reduces cost and improves quality control.

Cost – Brass is cheaper than using high-purity copper for mechanical parts. Copper is usually reserved for high-current traces or heat conduction, not threaded standoffs.

So the alloying with zinc (to form brass) and sometimes lead (to improve machinability and lubricity) is exactly to balance strength, durability, corrosion resistance, and manufacturing cost. Pure copper would simply be too soft and impractical for screws and standoffs.

Basically don't grind or sand it, don't let your kid swallow this entire heatsink. Its not a risk. Peace n love homies.