What Is Muntz Metal?
Muntz is an alloy of copper originally developed by George F. Muntz. It contains approximately 60% copper and 40% zinc and is considered to be a form of brass.
Muntz and Naval Brass
Muntz metal and naval brass are both copper alloys. These alloys are often grouped together, as both contain roughly the same 60/40 ratio of copper and zinc.
The key difference between Muntz and naval brass is that the latter typically includes <1% tin, while Muntz metal contains trace amounts of iron. Both Muntz metal and naval brass have a rich golden color and are widely used in the architectural industry for doors and entrances, storefronts, and elevators, among other applications.
Key Industries
Muntz metal was created as a corrosion-resistant metal for use in harsh settings, while naval brass was created specifically for marine environments. With a rich golden color, these metals are highly favored for both their practical benefits and aesthetic qualities. Common industries where Muntz metal and naval brass can be seen include:
Marine Architecture & Shipbuilding
Both metals may be used in shipyards, for exterior components of buildings located on the coast, and even for shipbuilding purposes. While naval brass is specifically designed for salty air, both metals are known to stand up well in these environments.
Architecture & Design
Like all red metals, Muntz and naval brass are popular for their golden color in many design projects. On building exteriors, Muntz or naval brass sheet metal may be formed into cladding, while interior design visions may utilize these metals to create elegant visual appeal.
Aging and tarnishing
As copper-based alloys, Muntz metal and naval brass tend to tarnish with age. Tarnishing occurs as a result of exposure to air causing the metal to oxidize. In some cases, these metals are selected due to the appearance they take on as they age. However, other customers opt to lacquer their brass or bronze products to avoid tarnishing.
Cleaning Muntz Metal / Naval Brass
If a tarnished appearance is not desired, or if dirt and grime have marred the surface of Muntz metal or naval brass, these metals can be restored and cleaned using a solution of 50% lacquer thinners and 50% water. When cleaning Muntz metal or naval brass, clean only with the direction of the grain, rather than against the grain. Use a lint-free cloth to clean the surface, then rinse the metal, and finally wipe dry with another clean, lint-free cloth.
Pride Polishing: Your Source for Finished Muntz & Naval Brass Sheet Metal
As a leading metal polishing service, Pride Polishing has produced high-quality finished Muntz and naval brass products for customers throughout the West Coast. Our large facility enables our team to process high-volume orders of Muntz metal sheet, naval brass sheet, and plates of each of these alloys.
If you’re interested in a quote for your project, have questions about specifications, or have custom finishing needs, please reach out to us!
