What Are the Differences between Solid and Plated Brass for Sale?

Brass is a versatile alloy that is made by combining bronze, zinc, and sometimes other elements like tin and silicon as well. Due to the alloy’s many advantageous properties like high durability, heat conductivity, and ability to withstand corrosion, it is commonly used for pipes and other structural needs. Aside from the practical and structural uses, solid brass for sale is also used as decorative pieces such as ornaments, door handles, and even as pots and pans.

Due to the value and popularity of brass, it can sometimes be confusing for consumers to know if their brass pieces are solid and pure or if they are simply just plated brass. Of course solid brass pieces are more valuable and expensive than plated brasses, which is why it helps to know how to tell the differences between the two brass types to avoid overspending.

Here are simple ways for customer to test brass pieces before purchasing them:

The Magnet Test

The easiest way to test if the pieces are solid or just plated is to use a simple magnet from home. Even a refrigerator magnet will work for this test. Allow the piece of magnet to hover over the pieces in question and if it sticks, it is just a plated piece, but when the magnet does not stick, it could possibly be a solid brass piece.

Take note that although simple and easy to administer, the magnet test isn’t 100% accurate because all non-ferrous metals and alloys are non-magnetic.

Polishing the Lacquer

Solid brass is amazing because it can last more than just a few decades and can be polished to regain its shine. Sometimes the old layer of lacquer requires removing before polishing, but there is no doubt that pure brass can be polished to gleam like it is new once more. The same cannot be said about plated brass because its core is made with zinc or steel and it is only the lacquer layer that gives it is shine. After a few years, the lacquer will fade and the shine can never return again. 

Polishing brass pieces to test for quality can be very risky because some plated pieces can be ruined beyond repair. It is, however, one of the most effective ways to differentiate between solid and plated brass. Owners who are unsure about their pieces should not risk any DIY polishing and consult with an expert before proceeding instead.

Scratches on the Surface

Brass hardware and pieces that experience constant wear and tear will show some signs of scratches on their surface. Before cleaning, polishing, and buffing away the minor damage, it is also good to take a look inside the scratches to determine if the pieces are solid or plated. Solid brass will look yellow underneath while plated brass will look more silver because the lacquer is hiding the white metal beneath the surface.

Go-To Metal Suppliers

When it comes to finding high-quality and reliable brass pieces of all shapes and sizes, there is only one supplier to contact: Rotax Metals. This company has been in business since the late 1940’s and has made it easier to locate rare metal pieces of all sorts. As one of the country’s top metal suppliers, they are fully capable of meeting all of your metal needs.

Sources:

The Difference Between Brass and Zinc, buckleguy,com

Brass Facts, baltimorebrassworks.com