Brass, Bronze and Copper
We can cut “Yellow Brass”, “Naval Brass”, “Red Brass” and Solid Copper. Generally, the more copper in the alloy, the more expensive the material. “Yellow Brass” is the most commonly used, but the “Red Brass” has a beautiful color.
Common thickness: 1/16”, 1/8”, 3/16”, 1/4", 3/8” and 1/2”
Surface Finish
These metal letters can be polished or satin finished; edges can be polished, satin finished, or sandblasted. All these metals are subject to tarnishing and oxidation and must have a protective coating unless natural oxidation is desired. Recommended coatings are clear acrylic lacquer or clear powder coating. Each has its advantages and disadvantages.
Theoretically, the powder coating should last a long time. However, it seems that the power coaters sometimes have trouble getting a glass-smooth finish on brass. It tends to orange peel.
The clear lacquer will last for quite a while, but probably not as long as the powder coating. However, when the time comes to re-polish and re-finish the letter, it is much easier to remove lacquer than powder coated finish.
Tip: Sometimes a very nice effect can be attained by combining polished and satin finishes in the same graphic.
Tip: These metals can be engraved also. 3-D engraving a brass plate, then giving the surface a satin finish, produces an especially elegant finish.
Advantages
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It's... Brass!
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See #1
Disadvantages
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Cost: This material is not cheap!
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Upkeep: Temper the cost of refinishing every few years with the fact that the letters will last for centuries.
