Maintenance, cleaning, finishing and coloring of copper, brass, bronze

/ presented by Copper & Brass Research Association.

New York : Copper & Brass Research Association, 1953.

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 maintenance

cleaning

finishing

and

coloring

of

presented by Copper & Brass Research Association

Motif for the decorative cover was inspired by a detail

of the bronzework on La Malson Francaiseat
Radio City in New York. Entire panel over the entrance
is illustrated on the inside front cover. The
inside back cover showsa sectionof a sculpturedpanel
from the front entranceof the BowerySavings Bank
on Forty-secondStreet in New York City.

COPYRIGHT 1948 BY COPPER & BRASS RESEARCH ASSOCIATION • 420 LEXINGTON AVENUE • NEW YORK 17. N. Y.
SECOND EDITION • 1953
REPRINTED • 1956
contents

chapter one Maintenance 5

Preliminary examination 5

Maintenance scheduling 5

Maintenance operations 7
chapter two Cleaning 8

Maintenance cleaning 8

Industrial cleaning 9
Types of cleanness '
Mechanical cleanness '
Physical cleanness
Chemical cleanness "
cleaning
Electrolytic 1*
Removal of paints and lacquers 17
Removal or stripping of metallic coatings 17
chapter three Finishing 20
Mechanical processes 20
Ball burnishing 20
Bright dipping 21
Matte dipping 21
Electrolytic polishing 22
Etching 22
Electroplating 22
Organic finishes 22
Lacquer 22
Paint 23
Varnish 23
Enamel 23
Japan 23
Shellac 23
chapter four Coloring 24
Rapid development of patina on copper 24
cabra Spray Process 24
Preparation of the solution 26
Method of application 26
Other color effects 26
1. Brown on yellow brass 27
2. Gold on yellow brass 27
3. Light green on yellow brass 27
4. Blue-black on yellow brass 27
5. Steel gray on yellow brass 28
6. Statuary bronze on yellow brass 28
7. Black on yellow brass 28
8. Black on copper 28
9. Royal copper on copper 28
 foreword

Copper and its alloys, because of theirwarm and attractive natural

appearance and the beautiful effects resulting from time and

weathering, are often left untreated. Frequently, however, there

are cases where certain finishes or coloring are sought initially.

The aim of this booklet is to answer, as well as its limited space

will permit, the most persistently recurring questions addressed

to the Copper & Brass Research Association in connection with

the maintenance, cleaning, restoration, finishing and coloring of

copper and copper-base alloys in the many applications for which

these alloys, because of their inherent attractiveness in decorative

effects and their protective qualities, have been utilized since

time immemorial.

Formulas and directions given herein are only those which both

theory and experience have indicated to be reliable. Of course,

varying conditions are apt to affect the results obtained. It is

advisable, where possible, to test the formulas and directions

experimentally on sample strips or small areas under conditions

approximating those to be encountered in the full-scale application.

In any event, careful supervision, reasonable purity of the in

gredients used, accuracy of proportions and care in application

are essential to obtain satisfactory results.

The Copper & Brass Research Association will be glad to be of

further assistance to users of copper and copper alloy products

in connection with problems of the kind treated herein.

introduction

(Copper, brass and bronze have long been favorites for procedure. For this reason no specific alloys will be
architectural and ornamental uses. Under normal condi mentioned in the pages that follow.
tions the natural appearance of copper and its various
In accordance with common American practice, the term
alloys can be retained with periodic maintenance. Even
"bronze" will be used here in the broader sense of includ
after long periods of neglect, the simple process of clean
ing not only the tin-bronzes, as in general European
ing and polishing restores to these surfaces their lustre
practice, but also a number of the brasses, such as archi
and color. Bronze statues and other articles of copper
tectural bronze, commonly called bronzes because their
and its alloys, such as bowls, various domestic utensils,
appearance resembles the true bronzes.
shields and weapons, friezes and the like, unearthed by
archeologists after having lain buried for thousands of Where chemically colored metals are used, only a thin

years, have in numerous instances been restored to prac layer of chemical compound of the underlying base metal

tically their original condition with little effort. The is produced on the surface. Because the layer is very thin,
combination of lasting qualities — strength, workability, the character of the finish immediately under it is very
pleasing appearance, and ease of maintenance — have apt to show clearly: smooth and lustrous if the metal
secured for copper and its alloys an unsurpassed position underneath was originally polished; dull or matte if the

in the field of exposed metal work. latter had been left unfinished or given a rough finish.
This fact often determines what surface treatment is to be
The alloys of copper used as building materials can be given the base metal before coloring it to obtain the

CAUTION
generally classified into the following groups: desired effects.

■ True bronzes, in which tin is the principal alloying

element with copper, are used comparatively rarely in
building construction because of their relatively high cost.
Many of the processes discussed in this book involve
toxic and inflammable substances. Their use must always
■ The material known as architectural bronze, is in real
be attended by intelligent care to avoid poisoning, burns
ity a leaded brass which, although inexpensive, gives
and other damage.
quite satisfactory service, in regard to both appearance
and utility. Where recommended solutions contain highly corrosive
acids, selection of the containers in which they are mixed
■ Copper, which is extensively used in the architectural or stored must receive careful attention.
field, is especially favored where parts must be formed
Solutions containing sulfuric acid or copper sulfate re
on the job, such as flashings, moldings, and other sheet
quire the use of lead, wood, earthenware or glass con
metal work.
tainers. If vessels of other metals are used they should be

■ Special such as nickel silver are used in this completely lined with lead or rubber. Wood barrels or
alloys
color effects or under tubs must have all exposed metal parts protected by lead
field mainly to achieve particular
certain specific conditions, where their special qualities, or rubber coverings.

great strength, uncommon flexibility, and the like, are of Where nitric acid is part of a solution, only earthenware
distinct advantage. or glass vessels are suitable.

Chemically, however, all of these alloys behave essen Sulfuric acid reacts violently when water is added to it

tially in the same manner when exposed to the same influ and this should never be done. Always add the sulfuric

ences and react similarly to the same sort of cleaning acid to the water — slowly - - a little at a time.

4
 chapter one maintenance

M aintenance of metal surfaces embraces not only disposal of a rag or the choice of tool to use, as some

periodic cleaning but may include the protection of sur of the detailed instructions which follow show. Starting
faces and occasionally the restoration of an original out with such statements as "that the bronze in these
finish or color. buildings will be cleaned and lacquered by men espe
cially trained for this work;" "that they will work 8
Preliminary examination
hours daily, day or night as occasions require;" that
Examination before any maintenance cleaning or restora "cleaning and lacquering is done at night because of the
tion work is undertaken will reveal the type of dirt or odor from lacquer and cleaning thinner;" and that
corrosion involved as well as other conditions which "bronze cleaners are responsible for maintaining a good
should be corrected to minimize maintenance and remove appearance of all bronze" in the evidently more public
the danger of serious corrosion. Potential sources of sections of the building while other parts "may be
trouble may be water discharging continuously over a cleaned by bronze cleaners or janitors as directed by
surface, improperly made joints, poor fits and junctions Chief of Service," such detailed instructions as the fol
with other metals — especially with zinc or iron, where lowing appear:
galvanic action may take place in the presence of mois
"Most bronze will be maintained by oiling, some by lac
ture. Atmospheric contamination is indicated by dark,
whose spotty, shifting dirt quering and a little by polishing."
dirty top surfaces deposits
prevent the normal weathering into the desired patina. of bronze with lemon oil is done during
"Cleaning the

Maintenance scheduling day. All exterior bronze, except entrances, is lemon oiled.
All window bronze is oiled. Entrance bronze and arcade
Regularity is the essence of successful maintenance. A bronze which is will lemon oiled
lacquered be occa
schedule should be set up providing periodic cleaning sionally."
with regular inspections in the interim. Ordinarily, if the
copper or bronze surface is cleaned once a year, two in "Equipment for oiling bronze should consist of gear box,
spections should be scheduled between cleanings. Dates oil can, several full-sized rags, No. 00 steel wool, small
of inspections and cleaning should be recorded, as well brush and a bottle of water."
as the observations as to the conditions found, and the
Lemon oiling proceeds as follows: "1. Brush off or wipe
nature of the work done.
off dirt. 2. Moisten cloth and apply oil and work it in.
By setting up a maintenance schedule, it is often possible 3. Rub bronze thoroughly until correct surface texture

to consolidate the work with other work to be done, there appears ('chocolate' on exterior store fronts, etc., and
by assuring a saving in handling of equipment, setting up bright bronze on door handles, doors, etc.). 4. Rub off
ladders, scaffolding and the like. briskly with clean cloth. 5. Light film of oil should be

left on bronze but not enough to make it a dust catcher.

An excellent example of such a schedule is that worked 6. When bronze is unusually bad. a little No. 00 steel wool
out by Mr. Herbert A. Fisher, manager of the Fisher and
may be oiled and rubbed on dark spot to brighten it up.
New Center Buildings in Detroit.* It is part of a com 7. Maintain a standard light chocolate color at all times
pletely worked out operating service and maintenance
system which not only schedules but describes in detail
the duties of each man employed in the operation and

management of these buildings, from building manager •See: "Standard-Practice Orders on Care of Brora*," 3rd and lost of a
to watchman and cleaner. In this so-called Standard- Series of Excerptsfrom "The Standard-PracticeSystemof the Fisherand New
Practice System nothing is left to chance, not even the Center Buildings, Detroit," Buildings & Building Management,October 1*3*.

5
 maintenance

on exterior store front bronze, a golden bronze color on "Place cardboard over parts not to be lacquered. After
interior lacquered store fronts and show windows, a dipping the brush into the cleaning thinner and then
medium bright statuary bronze color on elevator doors, into the pumice, the bronze to be cleaned should be vigor
medallions, cover mouldings, etc., and a bright polished ously brushed."
bronze around the entrances."
"This process should be repeated over and over until the

"Rags saturated with lemon oil should be used a long bronze is absolutely free from any lacquer, varnish spots
time and not discarded because they are black and dirty. or scratches. Care should be taken to avoid grain scratches
Use rags until worn out." as they show up badly when lacquer is applied."

Typical of the cleaning schedule is the following: "When this operation is completed the bronze should be
cleaned off with cleaning thinner and dried thoroughly
"One day bronze man will work from 6:30 a.m. to 3:00
with a clean cloth."
p.m. (V2 hour for lunch). Entrance bronze will be cleaned
before 8:30 a.m. so that it will not interfere with traffic. "The bronze is then ready for the lacquer."
This work usually consists of wiping off doors with oily For lacquering the cleaned bronze surface the following
rags. Next routine is wiping off of store window sills,
equipment is prescribed: 1. Air compressor and spray
above store fronts,
door frames, awning bars, cresting gun; 2. Lacquer (mixed to proper consistency — about 1
sign frames and arches up to the third floor." part of lacquer to 3 parts of lacquer thinner) ; 3. Card
• Window boards to protect parts not to be lacquered. After care
"'Shop doors and frames are oiled once a week
sills • fully last mentioned coats arc
are oiled once a week Cresting and awning bars covering the parts, 4

are oiled every two weeks • Cresting on second floor is applied to exterior and 3 coats to interior bronze surfaces.
oiled once a month • Signs are oiled once a month • High Thin coats may be applied at 15 minute intervals. To
arches are oiled every six months." protect the lacquer surface and fill in the pores, the
Standard-Practice Orders recommend applying lemon oil
"Entrance lights above street and street entrances are oiled
when the lacquer is set.
once every three months."
The final "General Instructions" in the "Orders" point
"Tenant space window frames and sash arc touched up
out that lacquers should be thinned only with "Lacquer
monthly and cleaned, inside and out, once a year."
Thinner," and that only "Cleaner Thinner" should be
"Ladders should be kept clear of entrances and doorways used for stripping surfaces and for cleaning them. Also
during office hours. Ladders should never be left un bronze exposed to the weather should never
that be lac
attended. If necessary to leave ladders for a moment, dis quered on damp or rainy days as dampness would get un
assemble and place in a corner out of the way of traffic." der the lacquer coating and permit the bronze to oxidize.

"When a section of bronze has become spotted or corroded The orders end appropriately by sounding a note of

from water in cleaning or from a solution of some kind warning as to the need for safety and economy, that for

or other, the section may be rubbed with steel wool and safety reading: "Lacquer, lacquer thinner and cleaning

oil to brighten it and then be allowed to oxidize again." thinner are inflammable and should be kept from flame
or fire. Likewise the fumes from them are explosive and
For cleaning of bronze in preparation of lacquering the
should never be allowed to be confined in a room. Keep
Standard-Practice Orders prescribe as equipment: 1. A
in a cool dry place. Keep containers covered."
shoe handle brush; 2. Pumice stone; 3. Cleaning thinner;
for protection of parts not "Care should be taken to keep equipment together and
4. A few rags; 5. Cardboard
cleaned; 6. Bread tins or flat pans — in which to well out of the way of the passing public."
to be

place thinner. The work itself proceeds thus: That for economy reads: "Polishing and wiping rags,

6
after they become dirty, will be placed in a bag until readily respond to scraping except by means of tools that
bag is full, then they will be sent to the laundry. Lemon cut or scratch the base metal, usually indicates corrosion
oil rags will be used until practically useless and then of a serious nature. The only way of regaining a smooth
discarded." surface in this case is by removing the surface metal to
Maintenance operations below the bottom of the corrosion pits, by grinding or

The problem of maintaining exposed decorative and scraping with some kind of abrasive material like pumice

protective surfaces of copper and bronze as nearly as or steel wool, followed by polishing. Steel wool, although

calls for the very effective, should not be used except as a last resort,
possible in their original finished condition
removal of dirt and tarnish or corroded spots. The dirt and when used, any pieces or strands remaining in crev
ices must be carefullv removed, as otherwise they will
may be all kinds of wind-blown and rain-deposited ma
terials which may form a sticky film because they fre rust and cause streaking. In industrial areas, the smoke

quently contain greasy and tar-like substances. Such dirt and fumes generally cause the soil deposits to be quite
should be gently scraped off both to determine the nature corrosive, as will also the exhaust gases of steady streams

of the dirt and the best way to clean the soiled surface, of trucks and automobiles along main highways. In some

and to examine the condition of the metal underneath. areas an occasional washing may be all that is required,
Dirt which forms lumps or balls when squeezed in the in others a carefully worked out maintenance procedure

hand indicates a greasy or oily base. Such deposits are is necessary.

common in regions where soft coal is the predominating Short cut methods for restoring the surfaces to their
fuel. Other types are dry. fine, wind-blown fly-ash, hard original beauty by using harsh cleaners or scouring pow
carbon or sandy particles. A dark scale which does not ders as a single operation should be avoided. Unless the
surface is first washed thoroughly with soap and water,
MODERN OFFICE BUILDING. 608 FIFTH AVENUE, NEW YORK, N. Y. the harshness of the particles of the surface dirt may mar
or even destroy highly finished soft metal surfaces, espe
cially those which are highly polished. Frequently, wash

ing may be the only cleaning operation necessary.

The materials to be used for these cleaning operations

will be discussed in the next chapter on Cleaning.

Surfaces which suffer long neglect may become badly

encrusted with accumulated dirt and may become deeply-
corroded, even to the extent of seriously affecting the
underlying metal. Restoration or renovation of such sur
faces requires much more drastic treatment than is nor
mally carried out under what is generallv understood as
maintenance work. The usual maintenance items, soap
and water or other dirt-loosening agents and the other two

standbys. metal polishes and mild abrasives will not

suffice and it will become necessary to utilize methods

such as were used by the manufacturer in giving the
metal its original surface. Such restoration work should
be entrusted only to skilled contractors who are specialists
in this sort of work.

7
cleaning chapter two

Dirt, or "soil," as it is frequently called in the trade, ber gloves is suggested for handling the solution. Al
is any foreign matter which, by its presence, interferes though its action is not harsh, it removes the natural oil
with giving an intended finish to a metal surface, or from the skin and may cause irritation. The solution does
which interferes with the restoration to a surface of the not affect stone, glass and other ceramic materials. After
finish it was meant to have. The presence of dirt or soil application, the surface should be rinsed with clean
may also prevent the formation of a natural finish such water of a temperature about the same as that of the
as patina. The first step in the preparation of a surface surface. No rubbing is necessary, so a hose will do. After
involves removal of the dirt, and the process is called drying, the surface should be ready for lacquering, if that

cleaning. should be desired.

Many soils are encountered during the manufacturing For loose dirts and oil, soap solutions are effective. Spe
processes. Among them are soap, heavy mineral oils, cialty soaps such as triethanolamine and other ammonia
light cutting and machining oils, carbonized compounds soaps will also remove discoloration on bronze surfaces
and scale, chips, and metallic or mineral particles. due to light oxides. Quantities of soap to be used in pre

In maintenance work the soils, hardly less in number, paring solutions depend on the tendency of the soap

may look different and the mechanics of removing them solution to gel or set. With solid soaps use from 2 to 6

may be different, but they are essentially of the same ounces per gallon of water, tending toward the lower

nature. They range all the way from baked-on greases, figure. With liquid soaps the quantity varies from 2% to
oils, metallic dusts, sands and other abrasive materials 50% by volume. In all cases the manufacturer's instruc

loosely deposited (and readily removable) to the same tions should be followed. Warming of soap solutions

deposits solidly bonded by tarry or asphaltic matter makes them easier to apply and rinse off. Not much

(extremely hard to dispose of). To know which type of brushing or scrubbing is generally required but the rins

cleaning solution to use, it is first necessary to know the ing must be thorough, especially if the surface is to be

basic ingredients of the dirt. lacquered. Addition of a small amount of alcohol to a

soap solution results in a better surface, particularly

Of equal importance is the adherence of the soil to the
where glass is part of the area to be cleaned.
metal's surface. The nature of the metal itself, its rough
ness or smoothness, temperature, etc., are factors which Surface-active agents (detergents, wetting agents, pene
must be considered in determining the cleaner best suited. trants, foaming agents, etc..) when added to other clean
ing solutions, for instance soap solutions, frequently
Maintenance cleaning
give them new properties. Their use as a liquid soap
Because of the usual lack of facilities for elaborate pro
extender and for maintenance and cleaning of metals is
cedures and the generally less severe conditions, main
recognized, but their development and use is so recent
tenance cleaning usually can be done by simpler methods that procedures are not yet established and tests should
and less costly materials than are required for industrial be made by the users.
cleaning. However, more time may be required.
The use of scouring soap powders, which contain a very
To clean greasy or oily bronze surfaces, such low-cost
high percentage of abrasives, while suitable for kitchen-
alkaline cleaners as trisodium phosphate or sodium meta-
ware, is not recommended for maintenance of bronze and
silicate (4 to 8 ounces to the gallon of water) are recom
brass surfaces, except for badly corroded surfaces which
mended. The solution should be as hot as possible and
are not readily restored by washing and polishing.
be applied by mop or brush, or, on small surfaces, with
a rag. If getting the hands into the solution is unavoid In removing dirt by washing and subsequent polishing,
able, it should not be hotter than 120° F. The use of rub care must be taken to avoid harming the finish, particu

8
larly where the decorative effect was produced by etching Types of cleanness
or hammering, or where the surface has been colored by It is not enough merely to state that a metal surface must
chemical or electrolytic action, or where it has been given be cleaned. There are three kinds of cleanness, depend
a mottled appearance.
ing on the purpose for which the cleaning is done. They
are: 1. Mechanical cleanness; 2. Physical cleanness; and
Soaps and polishes may be applied to small areas with
3. Chemical cleanness. The selection of cleaning mate
a soft cloth, for larger areas a brush or mop on a pole
rials and the method by which they are applied depend
may be used. (Caution: metal polishes, soapy water, etc..
on the kind of cleaning needed.
if allowed to dry on surrounding brick or stone work,
leave unsightly spots, difficult to remove. Glass, tile, and l. mechanical cleanness. A mechanically clean metal sur
other smooth ceramic building materials only need wip face is one from which all dirt in the form of solid par
ing off, but most other surfaces require a thorough wash ticles, such as dust, grit, scale and other unwanted oxida
ing with clean water. Since most cleaning solutions are tion products, and all grease and oil (but not necessarily
applied hot, it is necessary, if ceramic materials are the products of other chemical reactions) have been re

washed rather than wiped, to make sure that the tempera moved. Procedures which produce mechanical cleanness
ture of the washing water is not much different from comprise :
that of the cleaning solution.) Polishes generally are
A. Barrel tumbling B. Blast or vapor cleaning C. Wheel
pastes or liquid, the latter being the more popular. There
or belt grinding D. Scratch brushing E. Acid pickling
are also powdered metal polishes containing soap which
must be mixed with water before use. They are commonly A. barrel tumbling. Barrel tumbling is done in rotating
applied with a damp cloth. Some liquid polishes contain
or tilting barrels, and usually is applied only to small

petroleum naphtha, and these require caution in storage brass or bronze castings, forgings, stampings and other

and use because of their inflammability. fabricated articles. The barrel is partially filled with some
abrasive material such as powdered pumice, sharp sand,
Metal surfaces thus cleaned can, if desired, be lacquered hard metal stars, iron slugs or steel balls, together with
as soon as dry. The use of lacquers, varnishes, etc., for caustic soda flakes, sodium cyanide and water. It is ro
the protection of copper, bronze and brass surfaces is tated at a speed of 20 to 60 revolutions per minute.
discussed in the next chapter on Finishes. Tumbling removes adhering casting sand, scale, rough
fins and burrs. The method is cheap, but not well suited
Interior metal work usually requires only rubbing with for articles which are relatively fragile and where projec
a dry, soft cloth. The use of polishes should be avoided tions or depressions would interfere with the process.
where lacquered surfaces are to be maintained.
B. blast OR vapor CLEANING. This process is based on the
bombardment of the surface to be cleaned with particles
Industrial cleaning
which hit it with speeds of about 250 to 300 feet per
The principles of cleaning copper and bronze surfaces, second. These particles are either flung by centrifugal
whether applied by maintenance man, contractor or force from a very rapidly rotating wheel or shot out from
manufacturer, are the same, however much they may at a nozzle by means of compressed air or steam. The in
first seem to differ because of the vast diversity in work troduction of much less hard and abrasive blasting ma
ing facilities available to each of these groups. The fol terials such as coffee grounds, rice husks, cocoanut shell
lowing sections of this chapter are devoted to the field meal, various kinds of seeds and plastic powders has

of industrial cleaning and deal with the most important removed most of the earlier limitations of this process.
and the greatest variety of cleaning problems. Its use is permitted on many products formerly deemed

9
cleaning

too delicate for it. Elimination of, or greatly reduced need D. scratch brushing. This method of cleaning is done
for, the masking of critical parts which previously re with fast-revolving metal-wire brushes for the removal of
quired protection speeded many cleaning operations dur scale and light tool marks or to produce a finish re
ing the recent war. sembling a satin finish. On copper and its alloys a wheel
made of soft brass wire may be used, with a lanolin emul
Vapor blasting utilizes the same principles as the other
sion or a soluble oil as a lubricant. Scratch brushing is
blasting methods, except that speeds used are much
also performed with a greaseless compound on a cotton
higher (3200 feet per second tip velocity) and the abra
cloth wheel.
sive material, mixed in varying proportions with water
is much finer (down to 1200 mesh particle size). Vapor E. acid pickling. Acid pickling is principally used to re
blasting, of which a still more refined variant is known move the oxides developed on the surface of copper and
as Vapor Blast Liquid Honing, combines to a large extent its alloys as a result of annealing and also to remove the
the tasks performed normally by several other operations, grosser kinds of solid dirt, in other words, to give the
including sand or shot blasting, grinding, deburring, pol surface mechanical cleanness in preparation for other
ishing, honing, and surface peening. Since its introduc finishing processes; hence the treatment of this subject at
tion its field of applications has been greatly extended and this time.
today covers not only many exacting cleaning but also
The pickling operation is generally performed by means
finishing operations, providing the surface of all kinds
of the more common acids, such as sulfuric, nitric, and
of metals and even ceramic materials with a finely etched
hydrochloric acid. A frequently used pickle is the fol
finish. It is used to etch decorative designs on metal sur
lowing:
faces, to prepare such surfaces for plating, painting, and
metallic coatings, and to give fine instrument parts, dies, Sulfuric Acid Pickle
and precision machine items, such as supercharger and Sulfuric acid (Sp. Gr. 1.84) Vi to 1 gal.
turbine blades, their final finish.
Water 9 gal.

C. wheel or belt grinding. Scale and molding sand ad Temperature: Room to 150° F.
hering to brass and bronze castings as well as fins and
remnants of gates may be removed by grinding on an The heavier the scale, the more concentrated and the
emery wheel, a disc grinding machine or an emery-covered hotter the pickle used.
belt running over a set of well-aligned broad-faced pul
The addition of an oxidizing agent is desirable for re
leys. The surface speed of emery wheels or bobs, as they
moval of the red stain due to oxide films on brass and
are frequently called, should be from 4000 to 5000 ft. per
bronze. This red stain is not easily affected by sulfuric
minute. To maintain the wheel's effectiveness, this sur
acid pickles. In such cases, either sodium dichromate or
face speed should be fairly closely maintained, necessi
ferric sulfate are added to the acid, the quantities vary
tating either that the wheel be speeded up progressively
ing depending on the alloy being worked on. Typical
as it wears down, or that it be changed over to a faster-
solutions are:
running machine.
Dichromate Pickle
Since grinding, polishing and buffing all operate on the
Sulfuric acid 12 oz.
same principle, using a fast-rotating wheel, the finishing
Sodium dichromate 4 oz.
action depends on the size and hardness of the abrasive
grains on its surface. Further discussion of this subject Water 1 gal.

will be given in the chapter on Finishing which follows. Temperature: Koom to 120° F.

10
 Ferric Sulfate Pickle industries operate. It is often necessary to use high-
Sulfuric acid 13 oz. pressure sprays or to wipe the object, and the vapor

Ferric sulfate* 13 oz. cleaning stage is frequently preceded by spraying or

soaking the articles, or swashing them in a solvent bath.
Water lgal.
The procedure is suitable for degreasing small non-
Temperature: Low Copper Alloys: 120-140° F. articles,
ferrous particularly those with rolled edges,
High Copper Alloys: 140-175° F. seams, pockets, etc.. and where water staining after clean
• Prepare solution bv completely dissolving the ferric sulfate in a small
quantity of the water, heating the water If necessary. ing must be avoided.

Chlorinated solvents are non-inflammable but toxic. Tri

These solutions deteriorate with both time and use. They
chloroethylene. claimed to be the least toxic of these
may be temporarily rejuvenated by the addition of more solvents, is a narcotic and its effects are felt either by
acid, or sodium dichromate or ferric sulfate as the case
inhalation or absorption through the skin. Solvent resis
may be. but from time to time must be completely re
tant gloves should be worn and adequate ventilation of
placed. the working should be provided.
space

The lowest concentration of chemicals that will do the

Although the chlorinated solvents have proved important
desired cleaning is recommended. If the solution is too
in industrial cleaning operations, the operating costs are
strong — or if the object is left in the pickle too long —
relatively high and they do not produce the chemical
pitting and etching may result. The solution should give
cleanness that certain finishing operations such as plating
a clear, natural, non-glossy surface.
require.
Objects must be well rinsed after pickling, and, if neces
More recently developed are the emulsifying or emulsifi-
sary, treated with a neutralizer to remove the last traces
able type of cleaners. They do not attack any metal, are
of acid.
chemically neutral and non-inflammable, and are low- in
Other acid treatments, which are part of the finishing overall cost of application. Metal surfaces cleaned with
processes, are treated in the following chapter on them and rinsed off with cold, clear water are physically

Finishing. clean, ready for painting or lacquering.

2. physical cleanness. All gross surface dirt as well as Objects to be cleaned are dipped into or sprayed with
all traces of grease and oil have been removed. the solutions for a short period, usually about 30 sec
onds. They are then sprayed or rinsed in cold water,
Mineral oils and greases are best removed by petroleum
which forms an emulsion with the solution. The emulsion
spirits (mineral spirits) . Some solvents of this type are
holds the dirt in suspension while it is flushed off with
subject to fire hazard, to avoid which "safety solvents,"
the rinsing water. Upon drying, a clean surface results,
such as Stoddard solvent, that have higher flash-points,
except for traces of the solvent, which readily evaporate.
are used. Safety solvents include, besides the high-flash
There are two types of emulsifying cleaners. One consists
point petroleum spirits, the chlorinated hydrocarbons,
of an emulsifying material such as castor oil. triethanola-
the best known of which are trichloroethylene, perchloro-
mine oleate, acid sludge or a sulfonated corn oil added
ethylene and carbon tetrachloride. The latter is used only
to a high-flashpoint naphtha or kerosene. The other is
as a liquid.
produced by blending potassium oleate with kerosene and
Chlorinated solvents are used in both vapor and liquid a blending agent such as butyl alcohol or cresylic acid.
form, the two forms together being the basis on which Emulsifying action can be increased by adding up to
many of the dcgreasing machines used in the mechanical 10% water.

11
cleaning

Work to be treated with emulsifiable cleaners should be There are three general kinds of alkaline cleaners avail
dry when the treatment begins. Articles having deep able: the light-duty type, low in alkalinity, generally used
pockets or inaccessible recesses are not very suitable for for maintenance cleaning; the medium-duty type, with a
this type of cleaning. relatively low percentage of caustic, and which cleans by
emulsification; and the heavy-duty type, higher in caus
3. chemical cleanness. A chemically clean surface is free
tic, which cleans mainly by saponification (conversion
of all foreign matter such as oil, grease, fingerprints,
into soap) and only little by emulsification. The number
solid particles of any kind, tarnish and other chemical
of specialized alkaline cleaners available on the market
reaction products, and even from surface-adsorbed gases.
is so great that the selection of a cleaner for a specific
A surface must be chemically clean for successful plat
purpose might well be made in consultation with a
ing or to receive a homogeneous, impenetrable coat of
responsible cleaner manufacturer.
vitreous enamel.

Electrolytic cleaning
Alkaline cleaners are the most widely used type and are
the only ones to give metals chemically clean surfaces. Electrolytic cleaning is, in many cases, the preferred
They emulsify most greases and oils, are of low cost and method of producing chemically clean metal surfaces,
readily available, and are well adapted for use in high- particularly in electro-plating shops where direct cur
pressure sprays for the removal of deep-seated dirts. rent is already available.

Older types of alkaline cleaners, not particularly desir The removal of grease, oil, dirt and lacquers by alkaline
able as they attack copper and brass, were caustic soda cleaners may be speeded up and frequently improved by
(sodium hydroxide), soda ash (sodium carbonate) and the use of the electric current. The objects to be cleaned
trisodium phosphate. They are no longer used to any are suspended in the tanks of alkaline solution from
extent because of several inherent difficulties in their metal rods insulated from the tank walls on which they
application. Modern alkaline cleaners, while they still rest. The bath is kept as near the boiling point as possible

contain caustics, use as their base newly developed alka without causing excessive tarnish. The objects form the
lies and soaps, such as sodium tetraborate, disodium cathode. The anode is the metal sides of the tank, or
phosphate, sodium meta-. ortho-, and sesqui-silicates and preferably, large perforated iron plates suspended from
soaps from cocoanut oil, whale oil and fish oils. The insulated busbars. The gas (hydrogen) bubbling up at
addition of wetting agents increases their penetration, the cathode protects the surface from the tarnishing
spreading power and ease of rinsing. Soaps and other which otherwise takes place in alkaline solutions. This
detergents, when added, increase the cleaning proper vigorously bubbling gas, as well as the plating action,
ties by promoting emulsification. These newer cleaners, removes particles of solid dirt. A current density of
although not as dangerous as the caustic types, still must about 10 amperes per square foot of cathode surface pro
be cautiously handled because of their high alkalinity. duces the proper cleaning action.
The alkaline cleaners are usually kept near the boiling
In electrolytic cleaning, the object to be cleaned may be
point in the cleaning tanks.
made the anode instead of the cathode. The oxygen
Alkaline cleaners in general are used in preparation for formed at the anode causes a tarnish which can be re

lacquering, enameling and plating. Since their use may moved by a short dip in a dilute acid. The resulting
result in a slightly tarnished surface, the next step is to slight etching is believed to provide a better bond for
thoroughly rinse the articles, followed by immersion in subsequent plating. For anodic cleaning, a current density
a weak sodium cyanide solution or a weak sulfuric or of 50 to 100 amperes per square foot is said to give best
hydrochloric acid solution to remove the tarnish. results.

12
SPECIALTY GIFT SHOP

Ovington's

Fifth Avenue at 39th Street

New York, N. Y.
obtaining these

colors are

described on
h xovia I JIOV18 r ivaou aaddoo
NO MO-H3A SSVM NO U3ddOO NO diddOD
 HOTEL

The Waldorf-Astoria

Park Avenue at 50th Street

New York, N. Y.

fir irir
- L"
1 1 tfi Til-

1
-
tl l#ll#l Pi
. r T- i r
I
m\
ir-ir :ir
• -fciii Li!:ii::^i
:
i

l^ll l-lfll?lhl|!<l kip!!

u!!-1 ^Tn--l
hmm Ami kgg ran rxir::;i r:
- "hM ifi^iifliii in^i

p-i r 1 r
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Lii Lrl, Ld
Another method, reverse-current cleaning, makes the work
alternately the cathode and the anode. For one or two
minutes the work is the cathode, then for a brief period
of about 10 seconds the current is reversed and the work

acts as the anode and becomes slightly tarnished. The

current is again reversed for a second or two for the
removal of the tarnish.

In electrolytic cleaning tanks, the formation of a stable

foam or lather due to presence in the solution of certain 5-10-25 CENT STORE. S. H. KRESS & CO., 444 FIFTH AVE., N. Y.

soaps must be avoided. This will eliminate the occasional

loud explosions caused by a spark or open flame setting
off the explosive mixture of hydrogen and oxygen in the lacquer film should be removed. When the lacquer has
foam. For this reason, and because they are hard to rinse weathered, it is usually possible to peel off substantial
off, tallow soaps should not be used in electrolytic clean portions of the film. Generally, alkali strippers will not
ing solutions. remove clear lacquers, and cleaners of the solvent type
are necessary. Lacquer thinners or solvents originally
Removal of paints and lacquers supplied with the lacquer also can be used for its re
caustic materials moval. For maximum efficiency, special solvents can be
Strongly are commonly used as paint

removers. Caustic soda is the cheap obtained from the lacquer manufacturer. Small spots of
(sodium hydroxide)
est and one of the most effective. A strong solution is lacquer may be removed by steel wool, fine sandpaper or

used — approximately one pound per gallon of cold scrubbing with fine pumice. On fine grilles and screens,

be worn,
where it is often difficult to see if all the lacquer has been
water. Rubber gloves should and the solution
removed, brushing with a solvent should be repeated
applied with a brush or cotton rag. A small amount of
soap in the solution often speeds up the action. Some
until all the surface dirt has been eliminated. After this
times use is made of a steam gun. with the caustic solu any remaining lacquer may be lacquered over. But if the

tion in the hot water tank. As has already been noted, refinishing of the underlying metal requires dipping or

caustic soda solution tends to darken bronze or brass sur coloring, all traces of the original lacquer film must be

but the tarnish formed

removed.
faces, may be removed by the use
of a dilute acid. Small spots of paint may be removed
with turpentine and a rag. Removal or stripping of metallic coatings

It is frequently necessary to remove metallic coatings

To remove paint without the formation of tarnish, cresy-
with which surfaces have been plated in part or in their
lic acid, also known as tricresol, may be used. This also
entirety as a step in restoring architectural or other
requires the use of rubber gloves. The cleaner is used
decorative bronze or brass surfaces. The solutions and
undiluted and should be rinsed off with water. For paint
methods for removing coatings of the metals mostlv used
stripping, there are a number of proprietary compounds
for this purpose, as presented by G. B. Hogaboom, Jr.
available which will not tarnish the metal. Recent devel
and Nathaniel Hall in recent issues of the Plating and
opments in vapor blast liquid cleaning appear to hold
Finishing Guidebook, and in close accord with those fur
considerable promise in this direction, especially for
nished by George Black of the Glenn L. Martin Com
smaller objects which may be treated at the factory.
pany for the "Engineering File Facts" in Material &

When relacquering is to be done, the entire original Methods of February. 1946, are listed below:

17
cleaning

COATING BASE METAL SOLUTION METHOD OF STRIPPING. REMARKS

1. Hydrochloric acid 1 gal. Simple immersion.

Antimony tri-oxide 2 oz. Room temperature.

l/2
Water pt. Rapid, but a smut of antimony left on work.
COPPER

CADMIUM BRASS

BRONZE
2. Ammonium nitrate 1 1 lb. Immersion at room temp.
Water, to make gal. Leoves clean, smut-free surface.

1. Hydrochloric acid pt.

1 1

Temperature I25°F\
Water, to make gal.

COPPER
2. Hydrochloric acid,
Room temperature.
CHROMIUM concentrated.
BRASS

Room temperature.
3. Sulfuric acid gal.
1 1 1

Make work the onode at Volts, reversing the current.

6

Glycerine oz.
Instead of glycerine, copper sulfate crystals may be
Water pt.
added at rate of oz. per gal.
4

sink, as there may be sudden

in

Place container
1. Sodium cyanide* oz. violent gassing and heat development. After gassing
1 2

Water pt. cautiously, add more peroxide. solution turns blue

If

not clear, more cyanide

fl.

Hydrogen peroxide oz. or needed.

is
is

72
(100 vol.) Strip only few pieces at a time to prevent boiling
a

COPPER over; use solution in small quantities only, a pint or so.

GOLD
BRASS
2. Concentrated sulfuric
in

Make work the anode concentrated sulfuric acid.

acid. (U.S. Pat. 2.185.858 Temperature under 100°
F.

R. Mason to Western
S.

Addition of small amount chromic acid or single nickel

Electric Co.)
salts may help the action.

•CAUTION: Sodium cyanide a deadly poison, and extremecare must be taken to avoid carrying to the
is

it

lips. Also, great care must be exercisedto prevent mixtureof the cyanide with any acids, either in the plant
or the drainage system,as the gasesresultingfrom the mixtureare extremelydangerous.
in

18
 COATING BASE METAL SOLUTION METHOD OF STRIPPING. REMARKS

1. Sulfuric acid 1 gal.

Same method and remarks as for solution 3 for strip
Glycerine 1 oz.
ping chromium.
Water . 1 pt.

COPPER
2. Hydrochloric acid 2 oz. Room temperature.
NICKEL 1 gal. Use gas carbon and reverse current.
BRASS Water cathode

Light deposits of nickel may be removed in this dip.

3. Sulfuric-nitric acid
Great caution needed to prevent attack on the
bright-dip.
underlying metal.

BRASS Sulfuric acid 19 parts

by volume. Simple immersion in water-free solution.
SILVER NICKEL Nitric acid 1 part Temperature 180° F.
SILVER
by volume.

COPPER Hydrochloric acid 1 gal. Simple immersion.

TIN Antimony tri-oxide 2 oz. Room temperature.
BRASS Water - . . .-.J/2 pt- Same method as for removal of cadmium.

1. Ferric chloride 10-14 oz.

Copper sulfate 18-21oz. Solution should be reactivated by addition of hydro
fl.

56% acetic acid 40-60 oz. gen peroxide to oxidize the reduced iron.
COPPER Water, to male gal.
1

TIN BRASS

BRONZE
2. Sodium hydroxide 16oz. Room temperature.
Water, to make gal. Reverse current at volts.
1

Hydrochloric acid oz. Simple immersion.

1
1 5

ZINC BRASS
Water, to make gal. Room temperature.

19
finishing chapter three

Finishing includes all the processes which give a "greaseless compounds," which are preferred because they
metal surface its intended appearance. It also includes leave no sticky or greasy residues.
the protection of the finished surface from the influences
which tend to destroy it. such as atmospheric contamina The mirror-like finish variously called luster, gloss,

and other decorative sur sheen, etc., is obtained by buffing. Buffing is really a re
tion in the case of architectural
faces, and the effects of constant handling in the case of fined polishing operation utilizing very fine and relatively

or domestic The soft abrasives, such as rouge (red ferric oxide), crocus
articles used for personal purposes.
finishes which copper and copper-base alloys may receive (purple ferric oxide), tripoli or lime, with a wheel of
cloth, felt or other soft material. A buffing compound is
are so many and so extremely varied that it is possible
prepared by mixing the abrasive with stearic acid and
here only to touch briefly on a few of the processes.
tallow and forming it into the shape of a bar or cake
Coloring of copper and its alloys, although strictly speak which is pressed intermittently against the revolving
ing a finishing process, is covered in next chapter. wheel. The use of liquid polishing and buffing com
pounds, sprayed on the wheel, eliminates waste of stubs,
Mechanical processes permits faster and better control of the abrasive and is
well suited for automatic machines. Recent improve
For many applications, the surfaces produced on copper
ments are ventilated buffs, which practically do away
and its alloys by the regular mill operations require
with scorching and burning, and buffs which do not ravel,
additional finishing to give them the degree of brilliance
with pleats forming pockets to hold the abrasive. A
desired.
flexible polishing wheel permits its surface to flex con
Generally the first operation is polishing, which removes siderably without damage to the abrasive face. It can
surface imperfections by means of a rapidly rotating accommodate itself to irregular surfaces.
wheel with an abrasive surface. Correct speed is a prime

requisite. The surface speedfor emery bobs should be

Ball burnishing
4000-5000 feet per minute, for polishing wheels 6000-
9000 feet per minute. The grade of abrasive used de
A refinement of barrel tumbling (see page 9) known as
pends on the depth of the surface imperfections. For ball burnishing, is used in finishing small objects. This
rough surfaces, various grades may be used successively.-
operation produces the highest luster that can be obtained
starting with a coarse and working down to a very fine in bulk The work done in horizontal or
finishing. is
abrasive. Polishing wheels have the abrasive glued or
oblique barrels rotating at about 30 rpm for from 6 to
cemented on the surface. Sand-bobbing has come into
48 hours, depending on the degree of luster required and
vogue for polishing such relatively soft metals as copper, the type of work. The lubricating material is "neutral"
brass and bronze, which have a tendency to clog the
soap, cream of tartar or substitute, and soap bark. For
surface of a grinding wheel. Sand-bobbing uses a rather
each volume of work, two volumes of steel burnishing
coarse abrasive wet down with light mineral oil just
balls or other shapes. Mb" to W diameter, are required.
enough to keep down the dust but not enough to prevent The barrel is filled with water to within a few inches of
the abrasive from flowing freely. Common abrasives are
the cover, and about 2 ounces of soap is added for each
powdered pumice or fine sand. The wheels, which are of If a water softener should first
gallon of water. needed,
walrus hide or bullneck leather, are frequently shaped to work should
be added. Before burnishing, the be de-
the contour of the article handled. The work is
burred and bright-dipped (see page 21).
Satin or Butler finishes are produced by polishing wheels dried in a horizontal barrel containing sawdust slightly

made of quick drying glues carrying graded abrasives or moistened with a safety solvent.

20
 Bright dipping Then follows another cold water rinse and hot water

a
Vb
rinse containing ounce of soap per gallon the articles

if
Gives brightness to a surface but does not remove me
It accomplishes are to be lacquered and one ounce of soap per gallon

if
chanical imperfections. much the same
no further treatment required.

is
effect as does "electro-polishing" (discussed later), with
out the use of electric current. Bright dipping is also in general should be done
Bright dipping

by
experts, as
used to prepare a surface for other finishing treatments the fumes are toxic and the acids dangerous to handle.
such as plating, or to improve its adherence qualities for
Where semi-bright finish satisfactory, dichromate

is
paint. Bright dipping is used on solid copper and brass,

a
and with extreme care on electroplated coatings of copper, dip will be less expensive and more convenient to use.

brass, cadmium and zinc. The formula is:

Bright dips for copper and its alloys consist of sulfuric

Sulfuric acid 12 oz.
and nitric acids in widely varying proportions, with a
small quantity of water and hydrochloric acid. A typical Sodium dichromate oz.

4
formula is: Water gal.

1
Temperature: Room to 120° F.
Sulfuric acid 2 gal.

Nitric acid 1 gal.

Matte dipping
Water 1 to 2 qt.
To produce light matte finish on copper and its alloys,
a
>/2

Hydrochloric acid after bright dipping, thoroughly rinse, then dip in

fl.

oZ. weak

a
Use at room temperature solution of sodium cyanide, rinse again, then dry com
pletely. The work then dipped in solution of:
is

a
Excess of hydrochloricacid tends to cause spottiness on
brass. Wood soot and activated carbon are often added,
Sulfuric acid gal.

2
especially where there an excess of hydrochloric acid.
is

Nitric acid gal.

1
solution of sodium chloride sometimes used in the
is
A

above formula instead of the hydrochloric acid. Zinc oxide or sulfate-supersaturated

Before bright dipping, work coated with scale should be

The work kept in this solution until all action ceases.
is

treated "fire-off" dip or "scaling" dip. Two usual

in
a

The solution used at about 180° F., occasionally stirred

is

formulas follow:
with wooden paddle, and must be kept free of water.
a

Nitric acid gal.

1

More nitric acid will coarsen the finish, while additional

Water gal. sulfuric acid will make the finish finer. After the above
1

Nitric acid gal. operation, the work must be rinsed again, bright dipped,
1

again rinsed and dried.

Sulfuric acid to gal. very dull finish obtained

by

etching at room temper

1

A
2

is

Water to gal. ature in:

1

After bright dipping and thorough rinsing in cold, run

ning water, stains may be removed
Hydrochloric acid gal.
1

in
by

dipping solu
a

tion of ounces of sodium cyanide per gallon of water. 40° ferric chloride solution gal.
1
4

21
finishing

When etched to the required condition, articles are rinsed Electroplating

in cold water and given a short immersion in a dichro-
The finishes obtainable by means of electroplating with
mate dip (see previous page) to remove smut.
various metals, and the effects produced by the use of
the various solutions which have been developed for each,
Electrolytic polishing
are so numerous and vastly different that their discussion
Articles to be polished are made the anode in an electro
is entirely beyond the scope of this booklet.
lyte designed to produce finishes which mav range from
a light matte, through semi-luster, up to a bright polish.
Surfaces thus polished are free from mechanical stresses Organic finishes
and have no embedded abrasive particles. The overall
Many structural bronze forms already have a smooth,
cost is relatively low, as electrolytic polishing calls for
even surface and a natural bronze color, requiring no
no special operations to prepare the surface and only a
further finishing. Others require finishes for which lac
rinse in cold, running water after the work is lifted from
quers, paints, varnishes, etc. may be suitable.
the bath. Commercial electrolytic polishing bath solu
tions are acid in nature. A typical solution for treatment lacquer. To preserve the original surface and appearance
of copper and zinc is: in exposed locations with little or no maintenance, a coat
of clean lacquer may be applied. It must be understood
Water 100 parts
that the surface is thoroughly clean and dry before the
Chromic acid 12.5 parts
lacquer is applied. Lacquered or enameled surfaces will
Sodium dichromate 37.5 parts
deteriorate in time especially where there is abrasion,
Acetic acid 12.5 parts
and the entire coating must be removed before the sur
Sulfuric acid 10 parts
face can be reenameled or relacquered. Clear lacquers
U. S. Fat. 2,330,170
are affected by strong sunlight and some are apt to turn

Etching yellow or brown on long continued exposure. Clear lac

quers differ greatly in this respect and it is advisable to
Etching, as a method of putting decorative motifs and de
conduct accelerated tests or secure the results of such
signs on metal surfaces, is centuries old. Modern etching
tests from the source of supply. Often a lacquer with a
practice involves three steps: 1. A protective layer, called
slight original color may prove superior to a water-white
"resist" is applied to the parts of the metal surface to
clear lacquer.
remain in relief and to the back of the metal (the resist
is usually a baked-on varnish base ink) : 2. The actual Polished copper and brass surfaces can be made to retain
etching is done by immersion in the etching medium, their attractive color and sheen for a long time by clear
which for copper and its alloys may be any of several lacquer coatings. For small work that can be baked, there
different solutions, depending on the desired surface fin are synthetic baking-type clear lacquers formulated espe
ish (typical solutions are a 36-42° Haume iron perchlo- cially for copper and brass. These are not subject to any
ride solution or a 10% chromic acid solution); and 3.
appreciable change in color.
The removal of the resist is accomplished by an appro
priate solvent such as carbon tetrachloride, high-test Air-drying lacquers are preferable for lacquering sur
gasoline, or a combination of both if the resist is a lac faces after installation. These should be specially formu
quer. Frequently use is made of electrolytic processes to lated for use on copper or brasses and should be resistant
intensify and speed up the action, both in the etching and to sulfur gases and have good adhesion and wear resist
the removal of the resist. ance qualities. When during service the surface is ex

22
 Surfaces to be lacquered should be dry and free from
oil, wax and other foreign substances. Once polished,
cleaned, colored, or otherwise prepared for lacquering,
and dried, surfaces should not be handled and finger
prints should be carefully avoided. Lacquering will tend
to magnify surface defects. Pigmented lacquers should
be applied in as heavy a coat as is practical and in many
cases two or more coats are advisable.

For temporary protection, the surface may be cleaned

and, without drying, a so-called "water-dip" lacquer
applied.

Lacquers are usually applied by spraying or dipping.

Brushing lacquers are commercially available but are
difficult to apply and are only used for certain special
types of work. Under ordinary conditions, lacquers dry
rapidly in the air at room temperature.

paint. Paints are used principally for architectural pur

poses. No special preparation of a copper or copper-base
alloy surface is required prior to painting, except to make
sure that the surface is free from dirt, oil or grease. Gen
erally, however, a primer coat is required. Tarnished sur
faces take paint from a brush more uniformly than do

bright polished surfaces.

varnish. Varnishes are largely used in architectural fin

ishing. They dry slowly at room temperatures. A spar
varnish is designed for outdoor use and has high du

rability.

enamel. Enamels are used for both architectural and

decorative purposes. They dry more quickly than paints
and more slowly than lacquers. Enamels of some com

positions require curing at high temperatures.

BRITISH EMPIRE BUILDING. 620 FIFTH AVENUE, NEW YORK, N. Y.
japan. The principal uses of japan are industrial. Japans
are generally cured by baking at high temperatures, but
posed to perspiration, as on railings, a coating of paste some may be cured by air drying at ordinary tempera
wax will afford additional protection. Rewaxing should tures.
be done regularly, using a cloth moistened with water,
followed by polishing with a dry. soft cloth. Waxing will shellac. Shellac is a quick drying solution that is used

also increase the life of most outdoor lacquers. generally only for indoor architectural applications.

23
coloring chapter four

The natural beauty and warmth of appearance of cop roofs of some of Europe's most ancient cathedrals, as
per and copper-base alloys, and the variety of colors well as a number of bronze statues and other copper-
available, have appealed to the artistic instincts of man alloy surfaces exposed to the weather. Much research
since time immemorial. These qualities supplement the work has been done on this subject, both here and
inherent usefulness of the metals because of their du abroad, with varying success. In artificially producing, or
rability, adaptability to an endless variety of tasks and accelerating the formation of patina, apparently much
the ease with which they are worked. depends on the manner in which the solutions are ap
These properties have been of particular value in archi plied, the weather conditions under which the treatment

tectural applications of the exposed surfaces is carried out, and perhaps most
such as copper roofs, bronze doors,
various hardwares, and in decora important, on the climate in which the treated surfaces
grilles, statues, etc.,
tive and utilitarian articles like lamps, vases, trays,
are exposed. Probably the most successful of the numer

shields, and especially in costume jewelry. ous attempts to reproduce natural patina in a short time
by chemical means is the process developed by the
The wide range of colors and shades which may be given
Copper & Brass Research Association, known as the
these alloys are largely a matter of craftsmanship and
cabra Spray Process.
experience. The skill of the operator in handling the
time of immersion in the coloring solution, temperature While not invariably successful, this process has given
of the bath and other variable factors materially influ most satisfactory results in a number of installations.
ence the success of the operation. Of particular impor Encouraged by the improvement indicated by the use of
tance is the control of the atmospheric conditions in the wetting agents, which apparently promote the action of
coloring shop, i.e., a well ventilated shop is better for the coloring solution, the Association is continuing its

proper coloring. research into this important subject, and offers its cooper
ation to anyone having a special interest in it. Although
This booklet presents a number of formulas and methods
fully aware that the cabra Spray Process does not yet
by which the colors indicated have been produced suc
present the final answer to this problem, it is included
cessfully. For obvious reasons it is not practical to in
here for the benefit of those who may wish to try it out
clude all the colors which might be brought out on
in the field. The Association welcomes reports from any
copper, brass and bronze. The composition of the alloys
one having had experience with it and suggestions for
greatly affects the colors that may be obtained, alloys
improvements in regard to the solution itself or the man
high in copper content taking on a different hue than do
ner in which it is used.
alloys low in copper, even with the same treatment. Final
appearances are also greatly influenced by the surface
finish before coloring, that is, whether the surfaces were cabra spray process

scratch-brushed, mottled, high-lighted, satin finished and The cabra Spray Process for forming or accelerating
the like, which in turn depend on the kinds of polishing the formation of patina on newly laid copper roofs fol
or buffing wheels used and the compounds employed lows: The copper surfaces to be colored must be clean, as
with them. any dirt, oil or grease on the surface will interfere with
the chemical action of the solution. This involves careful
Rapid development of patina on copper
removal of the residual film of oil left on all copper
There is a persistent demand for a process for artificially and brass sheets from rolling operations, and also
the
producing patina on newly laid copper roofs and similar fingerprints and any kind of dirt which may have been
copper surfaces. The much admired natural protective deposited on the surfaces during handling and instal
coating of blue-green patina characterizes the copper lation of the copper sheets.

24
A few hard rainstorms may clean the surfaces sufficiently Oxide film on the copper will cause poor adherence of
to start operations. However, it is always advisable, par the patina. Copper roofs which have weathered for six
ticularly if the coloring is to be done immediately after months or more, should have the oxide film removed be
installation, to go over the surface with a chemical fore the coloring operations start. This is done by swab
cleaner such as can be obtained in most hardware or paint bing the surface with a cloth dipped in a cold 5% to 10%
stores. Cleaners of the trisodium phosphate type should solution of sulfuric acid. The operator must wear rubber
be satisfactory. Avoid cleaners which leave a coat of gloves and take care to prevent spilling any acid on
oxide on the copper surface. himself or on adjacent wood or stonework. Immediately
after this swabbing, the surface should again be thor
Follow cleaning by a thorough rinsing to remove all
oughly rinsed with clean water. This should leave a roof
traces of the cleaner compound. If the cleaning has been
surface, whether old or new, in good condition for
properly done, the rinsing water will spread uniformly
coloring.
without formation of globular droplets, in other words,
the water should wet the copper surface thoroughly. If The following table gives the formula for the coloring
necessary, cleaning should be repeated until this condi solution, and the quantities required of each of the in
tion is obtained. gredients for various areas of roof surface:

Roofing Area Ammonium Copper Concentrated Total

in squares of Sulfate, Sulfate, Ammonia,* Water. Solution,
100 sq. ff. Lb. Oi. Fl. Oi. Gal. Col.

10 6 3 1.34 VA

20 12 6 2.68 13 14%

30 18 9 4.02 19»/2 213/i

40 24 12 5.36 26 29

50 30 15 6.70 32M 36'/4

• One fluid ounce of concentratedammonia contains 0.936oz. by weight of ammonia.

Net*: The ammonium sulfate should be "Technical Grade." Agricultural grade may be used if the solution is filtered to eliminate dirt. Copper sulfate
is commonlyknownas blue vitriol. The concentrated ammonia should have a specific gravity of 0.90.

25
coloring

preparation of the solution. The solution should be pre the treatment are a moderate to heavy dew, a light mist
pared in a lead container, or if other metals (iron, steel, or fog, or other condition of high atmospheric moisture
copper, etc.) are used, the container should be completely content with a relative humidity of 80% or more. The
lead lined. Wooden barrels and tubs are also satisfac atmospheric moisture combines with the deposited solu
tory if all exposed metal parts are lead covered. tion to chemically attack the copper, and the desired blue-
green patina results. The colored layer should be of a
First dissolve the ammonium sulfate in the water. When
satisfactory depth if the action continues undisturbed for
completely dissolved, add the copper sulfate. This is best
not less than six hours. Where this period of attack has
done by removing a few gallons of the ammonium sul
occurred, the next rain should wash off the remaining
fate solution and dissolving in it as much of the copper
deposit of the solution and should bring out the blue-
sulfate as it will take. This is then poured back into the
green of the patina. At first the color will be somewhat
original solution and another batch removed, repeating bluer than but it should
natural patina, weather into
the operation until all the copper sulfate has been dis
the natural color in time, the time depending on climatic
solved.
conditions.

Then add the concentrated ammonia slowly, while con

stantly stirring the solution. It is important that the quan Other color effects
tity of ammonia be exact, as the correct ratio of ammonia
The formulas appearing on the following two pages are
to water must be maintained. The solution is now ready
for the production of certain definite colors regarding
for use.
which recurrent inquiries have been received. The Asso
method of application. The solution should be applied ciation invites inquiries as to other colors and will under
by spraying. A satisfactory sprayer is the ordinary gar take to furnish such information as may be available.
den type knapsack sprayer, with the inside coated with
In the preparation of the metal for coloring, cleaners
bituminous paint. Spraying should be done rapidly, using
and dips are indicated. Data regarding these cleaners
a Avoid large drops, which
fine spray. tend to run
will be found in Chapter II, on Cleaning. Where a wet
together, causing streaks. It will be found better to use
ting agent is called for, any of the proprietary wetting
too little rather than too much solution at a time. Allow
agents suitable for use in acid solutions will do.
the solution to dry after the first spraying (about 10 to
15 minutes on a warm, dry, sunny day; longer on a
cloudy day ) .
Acknowledgment
Spraying and drying are repeated five or six times.
While it is impossible to ocknowledge and credit individually all of the
sources from which the information given here was obtained, on exception
It should be noted that the color does not show up imme
should be made in the cose of the following because of the particularly
diately. When the spraying has been completed, the cop useful material and directions which they have provided: Plating and
per surface should appear to be covered with a "'glassy" Finishing Guidebook, published by Metal Industry Publishing Co., New
York City; Metal Industry Handbook and Directory, published by The Louis
coating somewhat resembling a dark heavy coat of
Cassier Co., Ltd., London, England; The Metal Cleaning Handbook, pub
varnish. lished by Magnus Chemical Co., Garwood, N. J.; Metal Cleaning with
Chlorinated Solvents, published by E. I. du Pont de Nemours & Co..
The development of the color depends on suitable weather Wilmington, Del.; Bell TelephoneLaboratories, New York City; Mr. Richard
conditions: Rain within six or eight hours may wash N. Lindobury (Roehm & Haas Co., Philadelphia, Pa.), Dr. C. L. Mantell,
New York City; Mr. Chas. F. Mason (Stamford Laboratories. Long Island
away some of the solution before it has had a chance to
City. N. Y.) and Mr. Henry A. Strow (MacDermid Incorporated, Waterbgry,
act on the copper. Ideal weather conditions following Conn.) on whose treatises parts of this booklet are based.

26
1. BROWN ON YELLOW BRASS—COLOR PLATE A 3. BLUE-BLACK ON YELLOW BRASS-COLOR PLATES AND

D
C
Surface: Buffed. Surface: Buffed (Glossy finish)
or: Bright-dipped (Matte finish)
Preparation: Hot alkaline cleaner, cold water rinse; cyanide dip,
cold water rinse. Preparation: Hot alkaline cleaner, cold water rinse; cyanide dip,
cold water rinse.
Solution used:

Sodium bichromate 20 oz. Solution used:

Nitric acid Copper carbonate 16 oz.

Sp.Gr. 1.42 2V4fl.cz.
Ammonium hydroxide
Hydrochloric acid Sp.Gr. 0.90

Vi
Sp.Gr. 1.20 %fl.oz.

3/t
Water gal.
Wetting agent 1/10 or.
(An excess of copper carbonate required.)

is
Water 1 PaL
Procedure: Approximately 10 seconds immersion at 180-200°

F.
Procedure: One minute immersion at room temperature (70° F. ). Cold water rinse, alkaline rinse; cold water rinse, alcohol rinse
agitating the work at 15 sec. intervals. Rinse in cold and hot (avoid excess accumulation of water) dry in clean sawdust. Coat

;
water. Dry by air blast. Coat with a clear nitrocellulose lacquer. with clear nitrocellulose lacquer.
a

Remarks: The film is easily removed when wet: after drying it is

very adherent if properly applied.

2. GOLD ON YELLOW BRASS—COLOR PLATE B

4. LIGHT GREEN ON YELLOW BRASS COLOR PLATE

E
Surface: Buffed. Surface: Bright-dipped.

Preparation: Hot alkaline cleaner, cold water rinse; cyanide dip. Preparation: Hot alkaline cleaner, cold water rinse; cyanide dip (4
cold water rinse. oz. NaCN per gal.), cold water rinse.

Solution used: Solution used:

Sodium bichromate 20 oz.
Sodium bichromate 20 oz.
Phosphoric acid
Nitric acid
Sp.Gr. 1.71 V/4 fl.oz.
Sp.Gr. 1.42 2>/2fI.oz.
Wetting agent 1/10 oz.
Hvdrochloric acid
Sp.Gr. 1.20 3 Water gal.
'
1

Sulfuric acid
Procedure: Immersion for 40 to 60 minutes in cold solution without
fl-

Sp.Gr. 1.84 % "z-

agitation of the work, lit important, of emirs'", to use wetting
is

agent which not changed in the solution. Rinse in hot and cold
is

Wetting agent 1/10 oz.

I

water. Dry by air blast. Coat with clear nitrocellulose lacquer.

a

Water SaL
1

Remarks: The film easily removed when wet; after drying

is

is
it

Procedure: One minute immersion at room temperature (70° F. very adherent applied slowly.
if
).

agitating the work at 15 sec. intervals. Rinse in cold and hot be immersion time may be reduced to three minutes by the
I

water. Dry by air blast. Coat with clear nitrocellulose lacquer. addition of 1/10 oz. of hydrochloric aciil and slow but constant
II.
a

agitation. With the use of hydrochloric acid, however, the film,

while formed more rapidly, has tendency to become friable when
a

Remarks: The film easily removed when wet; after drying

is

is
it

dry. In this instance, therefore, the parts should be cleaned and

very adherent properly applied.
if

covered immediately with clear lacquer.

27
 UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN

3 9015 04327 0100

coloring

5. STEEL GRAY ON YELLOW BRASS—COLOR PLATE F 7. BLACK ON YELLOW BRASS—COLOR PLATE H

Surface Bright-dipped. Surface: Bright-dipped.

Preparation: Hot alkaline cleaner, cold water rinse: cyanide dip, Preparation: Mot alkaline cleaner, cold water rinse; cyanide dip,
cold water rinse. cold water rinse.

Solution used: Solution used and Procedure: Suspend the work in hot caustic

a
soda solution (8 oz. sodium hydroxide per pal. of water) for

a
Arsenic tri-oxide (AS2O3) 4 oz.
few minutes: then transfer to another caustic soda solution of
Hydrochloric acid the same strength to which oz. of potassium persulfate per pal.

1
Sp.Gr. 1.20 B^fl.oz. has been added and heated to incipient boiling. The work

is
immersed for 10 minutes, then thoroughly rinsed cold water and

in
Sulfuric acid
in hot water. Dry by air blast. The black-velvet-like film then

a is
Sp.Gr. 1.84 2fl.oz. smoothed by rubbing with clean soft cloth. Coat with clear

a
Water 1 gal. nitrocellulose lacquer.

Procedure: Immerse 5 to 10 seconds at room temperature (70° F. ).

Cold and hot water rinses. Dry by air blast. Coat with a clear
nitrocellulose lacquer.
8. BLACK ON COPPER—COLOR PLATE

I
Surface: Buffed.

Preparation: Hot alkaline cleaner, cold water rinse; cyanide dip,

cold water rinse.

Solution used:

Potassium sulfide oz.

2
Water pal.

1
Procedure: to 10 seconds immersion at 100° F. Rinse in cold
5

6. STATUARY BRONZE ON YELLOW BRASS—COLOR PLATE G

and hot water. Dry by air blast. Coat with clear nitrocellulose
a

Surface: Bright-dipped. lacquer.

Preparation: Hot alkaline cleaner, cold water rinse; cyanide dip,

cold water rinse.

Solution used: 9. ROYAL COPPER ON COPPER COLOR PLATE

J

Copper carbonate 16 oz.

Surface: Bright-dipped and buffed.
Ammonium hydroxide
Sp.Cr. 0.90 14 gal. Preparation: Hot alkaline cleaner, cold water rinse; cyanide dip,
cold water rinse. Dry by air blast.
Water % gal.

Solution used:
Procedure: Approximately 10 seconds immersion at 180-200° F.
Molten potassium nitrate (1200-1300° F. — dark red) an iron
in

Cold water rinse. Develop a brown color by immersion for a few

seconds in a dilute sulfuric acid solution oz. per pal. of container.
fl.

(2
water). Rinse thoroughly in cold water. Dry by air blast. Remove
smut with clean soft rag or sawdust. Coat with clear nitro Procedure: Immerse for 20 seconds. Quench in hot water, dry, and
a

cellulose lacquer. buff. Coat with clear nitrocellulose lacquer.

a

PRINTCO
INU.S.A.
28