Which material is commonly associated with faucet construction in modern plumbing?

Brass is commonly associated with faucet construction in modern plumbing due to its advantageous properties. It is an alloy primarily made of copper and zinc, making it both durable and corrosion-resistant. These characteristics are particularly important in plumbing, where fixtures are exposed to varying water conditions, including pressure fluctuations and potential exposure to minerals or chemicals in the water supply.

Additionally, brass has excellent machinability, which allows for precise engineering and manufacturing of intricate faucet designs. Its inherent antimicrobial properties also make it a favorable choice for reducing the growth of bacteria, contributing to better hygiene in plumbing fixtures.

In contrast to brass, the other materials listed—aluminum, plastic, and steel—typically do not offer the same level of durability or resistance to corrosion that brass does. While these materials may be used in certain applications, brass remains the industry standard for high-quality faucets due to its overall performance and longevity.