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Q&As since 1989


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Clear coating for brass mailbox numbers

Q. I manufacture 2" and 3" brass numbers. I lacquer finish them. These brass numbers are used on curbside mailboxes. In my view lacquer finish may tarnish after a few years. I would like to know what 'clear coating" I can use for lifetime protection against tarnishing due to weather.

Syamal Bhattacharya
Brass Numbers - Kingwood, Texas

A. Have you found a way which solves your problem? I have a similar task of ensuring brass components have improved corrosion properties. Currently we nickel plate our components, however we are looking for cheaper alternatives.

S C Khakhar
- Saffron, Walden, UK
2004

A. Why not find a custom powder coater for the job? It won't be as inexpensive as your own lacquer, but it will be much more durable. There are some fantastic clear powders on the market. They will do a good job for you.

Daryl Spindler, CEF
decorative nickel-chrome plating - Greenbrier, Tennessee

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Gentlemen

It is entirely possible to clear coat Ni plated Brass threads:

These options may merit consideration,

1) Clear Electrophoretic Coating.
2) Spray Lacquer coats such as PU/ Mixed PU acrylic and many other combinations

On the second issue of costs, please observe that brass is not exactly cheap, and if you need protection consider spending at least 5 to 8 percent of the material cost on the coating system. After all its the Finish that gets the product attention and sales. And assures post sale life.

Regards,

Asif Nurie [deceased] [deceased]
- New Delhi, India
With deep sadness we acknowledge the passing of Asif on Jan 24, 2016

A. The state of the art way (however you would have to contract out) is : PVD . It is a method of vacuum deposition often used in the plumbing world to coat faucets with a clear ceramic type coating.Those always have a lifetime guarantee against corrosion in an indoor environment.

Norm Stavin
- Amagansett, New York

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Your product doesn't sound like something that will afford very expensive finishing like vacuum deposition. I bet a good clear powder coating would do the trick. Powder clearcoats are used on wheels and other outdoor applications, and they are HARD.

Jeff Watson
- Pearland, Texas

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DEAR BHATTACHARYA

Sounds that your product is for outdoor use. The cheap & best will be Clear Pure Polyester powder coating. You can find a job coater who can do for you or you can install the unit if the volume permits. Alternatively there are propritory clear electrodeposition lacquers are available but they may be expensive.

PRABHAKAR GUPTA
- Kanpur, U.P., India