Plating Q&A: Converting a Brass Plating Bath

Q. Can a brass plating bath be converted into a bronze plating bath?

A. Conceptually, converting a brass plating bath into a bronze plating bath is possible, though the conversion depends on the type of brass plating bath you are using.

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The two plating baths are quite similar. By slightly altering the composition of the bath, you can change the color of the deposit, resulting in a brass or bronze finish.

But then is the bronze bath a true bronze? This is where you have to take into account the parts that you are plating and their use. A true bronze has different physical properties compared with that of the bronze that consists of only copper and zinc. Typically, a bronze consists of copper and tin. While the copper zinc bath will give you a bronze-like color, is not a true bronze.

My advice is to not convert your brass bath, particularly if it is functioning well. It would be better to prepare a separate bath that is a true bronze plating bath using copper and tin.

Originally published in the September 2015 issue.