Natural brass is attractive, but most export parts need some surface treatment — to look consistent, resist tarnish or corrosion, or perform electrically. The right finish depends on what the part does.
| Finish | Typical use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Polished / natural | Decorative hardware | Usually lacquered or passivated to prevent tarnish |
| Sandblasted | Matt decorative parts | Uniform non-reflective surface |
| Nickel plated | Glands, fittings, hardware | Corrosion and wear resistance; bright or satin |
| Chrome plated | Taps, bathroom fittings | Hard, bright decorative finish, normally over nickel |
| Tin plated | Electrical terminals | Good solderability and conductivity |
| Silver plated | High-performance contacts | Highest conductivity; on request |
| Passivated / anti-tarnish | Stored or shipped parts | Thin protective film against discolouration |
What to specify
- Thickness — plating is measured in microns; state the minimum and where it is measured.
- Corrosion test — if needed, a neutral salt-spray requirement in hours (ISO 9227 or ASTM B117).
- Appearance reference — a sample or colour and gloss standard for decorative parts.
- Compliance — for example a requirement for hexavalent-chromium-free processes.
Don't forget the threads
Plating adds thickness, which can affect threaded features. If a part must pass a thread gauge after plating, tell your supplier so that the pre-plating dimensions are adjusted.
Our hardware and sanitary parts and electrical components are available in the finishes above.
Have a drawing or specification in mind? Send it to our export desk and we will respond with a clear quotation.