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Possible blisters in silver plating of saxophone

Q. I recently purchased a new saxophone which is made from brass, and is silver plated. I have just noticed a few tiny raised bumps, which look like bubbles, have appeared on the main body of the sax, all in the same area. (about 3 sq. in. area). Is it possible that the silver plating could be bubbling due to some contaminant on the brass before plating? I would like to know before contacting the manufacturer.

Jeff Ackerman
Musician - Santa Clarita, California, United States
2004

A. It's not only possible, it's unfortunately highly likely. These blisters will break. Your sax probably needs replating.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2004

Thank You! I sent the sax back to the manufacturer, requesting a replacement. A re-plate would not be acceptable on a $3,000 sax that I only had for 90 days. More of these blisters appeared after I wrote my first inquiry! I appreciate your expertise and prompt response!

Regards,

Jeff Ackerman
- Santa Clarita, California, USA
2004

Q. We currently silver plate SiFeBz parts. Recently we had lots which showed "bumps" over most of the surfaces. These were not blisters, no out-gassing. The plating appeared to go up and over "something" underneath as the plating was still a uniform thickness and it did exhibit adhesion. Different parts plated at the same time did not show the defect. Parts are dipped in RP before being sent to the plater.

Jack Meagher
- Lunenburg, Massachusetts
February 6, 2013

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