0
Brass is a lovely metal alloy from which artisans create beautiful objects for display in the home, or even jewelry. Good brass has a soft glow and complements any decor. However, it may become tarnished. If badly tarnished, the metal will have a black hue and needs thorough cleaning and renovation.
Brass that has become tarnished will need polishing, but first, the old lacquer must be removed. Brass usually is made from 67 percent copper and 33 percent zinc. The proportions may vary. The copper in the alloy will tarnish if exposed to air, so brass is usually covered with lacquer to prevent oxidation.
The first step in cleaning brass is to wash the object in warm, soapy water. Use a soft brush to clean any ornamentation. It is possible that the object is not really tarnished but has simply become heavily soiled over time, and it will be returned to the original elegant appearance with a quick wash. If so, just dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
To begin removing old lacquer, pour boiling water over the piece. This may be sufficient to soften the lacquer so it can be peeled away. If some old lacquer remains, use acetone, or nail polish remover, applied with a cotton ball to remove it.
For sensitive individuals, an alternative is to use vinegar as a solvent, but this takes longer and requires more effort. Small objects can be treated by brushing on acetone with an old toothbrush and then boiling the piece in water. Discard the toothbrush or keep it in cleaning supplies afterward.
After using acetone on a larger piece, again pour hot water over it to rinse completely. Dry the piece with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Brass can be left without lacquer to develop a patina, and then re-lacquered to stop the oxidation process. Or cover with new lacquer immediately. Work in a well-ventilated area.
What else can I help you with?
What will ammonia do to brass?
Ammonia can cause brass to tarnish and corrode due to its high alkalinity. It can also remove the protective layer of lacquer or varnish on brass surfaces, leading to discoloration and pitting over time. It is not recommended to use ammonia to clean brass.
How do you remove lacquer from a stone floor?
To remove lacquer from a stone floor, you can use a lacquer thinner or solvent following the manufacturer's instructions. Apply the solution to the affected area, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub the floor with a brush or scrubbing pad. Once the lacquer has softened, wipe it away with a clean cloth and rinse the area with water.
How do you remove polyurethane from brass?
To remove polyurethane from brass, you can use a solvent such as acetone or denatured alcohol. Apply the solvent to the polyurethane with a soft cloth or brush, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub the affected areas until the polyurethane is removed. Be sure to clean the brass thoroughly afterward to remove any residue.
Can you tell me about the different types of spots on brass and how they can be removed or prevented?
There are two main types of spots that can appear on brass: tarnish and corrosion. Tarnish is a dull, dark film that forms on the surface of brass due to exposure to air and moisture. Corrosion, on the other hand, is a more severe form of damage that can cause pitting and discoloration. To remove tarnish from brass, you can use a mild abrasive like baking soda or a commercial brass cleaner. For more stubborn tarnish, you may need to use a brass polish or a mixture of vinegar and salt. To prevent tarnish, you can apply a thin layer of clear lacquer or wax to the brass surface to protect it from exposure to air and moisture. Corrosion on brass can be more difficult to remove and may require professional restoration. To prevent corrosion, it's important to keep brass surfaces clean and dry, and to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help preserve the appearance and integrity of brass over time.
Is lacquer thinner a degreaser?
Yes, lacquer thinner can be used as a degreaser. It is a strong solvent that can effectively remove grease, oil, and other substances from surfaces. However, it is important to use it in a well-ventilated area and follow safety precautions due to its strong chemical properties.
What will ammonia do to brass?
Ammonia can cause brass to tarnish and corrode due to its high alkalinity. It can also remove the protective layer of lacquer or varnish on brass surfaces, leading to discoloration and pitting over time. It is not recommended to use ammonia to clean brass.
How do you paint over brass lacquer on fireplace doors. Must you remove old finish or just prime and spray with a high heat paint?
You must rough up the old finish, use sandpaper. Then apply the heat resistant paint
How do you remove nitrocellulose lacquer?
Lacquer thinner will possibly remove it, chemical stripper will definitely remove it.
Can silver polish clean brass instruments like the french horn?
Not really, no. Many horns are coated with a clear lacquer over polished brass, and an abrasive silver polish will wear off the lacquer.
Why do people put lacquer on trumpets?
It prevents the brass from tarnishing, and keeps it shiny.
Why was the trumpet originaly red?
It wasn't the red colour is from lacquer which is applied after the brass is formed into the trumpet shape.
What is the flugelhorn made of?
Its normally made of brass and is similar to that of a cornet or trumpet
How do you remove the lacquer from a saxophone?
If someone has applied a lacquer to stop the brass from tarnishing,it's likely that they have used either acrylic or oil based clear from an aerosol can.(some of the acrylics are of good quality) You should be able to remove it with acetone and clean cotton rags.If a 2-part polyurathane is on it, it will need paint stripper, but this is unlikely.
How do you remove black tar adhesive?
Lacquer thinner will remove it from most materials.
How do you remove printing on PVC pipes?
Lacquer thinner.
Where can you find out about soluble fluoropolymer lacquer finishes for brass and bronze handrails?
Super Shield in the US make it and ship worldwide
How do you remove lacquer from a stone floor?
To remove lacquer from a stone floor, you can use a lacquer thinner or solvent following the manufacturer's instructions. Apply the solution to the affected area, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub the floor with a brush or scrubbing pad. Once the lacquer has softened, wipe it away with a clean cloth and rinse the area with water.
