Understanding the Materials: What Makes Brass Special and What Threatens It?
The Composition of Brass
To understand the challenges of caring for old brass shells, we first need to understand the material itself. Brass, a metal alloy, is primarily composed of copper and zinc. The proportions of these two metals can vary, influencing the brass’s color, strength, and other properties. The most important thing about brass for our purposes, however, is its unique blend of attributes.
Why Brass Was Chosen For Shells
Brass’s durability made it ideal for the harsh conditions of warfare. It’s able to withstand significant impacts, high pressures, and extreme temperatures. Beyond its toughness, brass is also relatively easy to shape and machine, which is why it became a favorite material for manufacturing cartridges. This malleability allowed for the creation of various shell shapes and sizes, designed to fit a vast array of weaponry. The beautiful appearance of brass also contributed to its adoption. Brass possesses an eye-catching golden hue, a quality that makes it attractive to collectors and adds to the aesthetic appeal of the shells.
The Enemies of Brass: Tarnish and Corrosion
However, brass, like any metal, is susceptible to the ravages of time and the environment. Its worst enemies include tarnish and corrosion, two processes that can gradually degrade the metal’s surface and structural integrity.
Understanding Tarnish
Tarnish is a form of surface oxidation. The brass reacts with oxygen and sulfur compounds present in the air, creating a darkened film that dulls the metal’s natural luster. Think of it as a very slow form of rust, but instead of iron oxide, it involves copper compounds. The speed at which tarnish develops can depend on various factors, like humidity levels and air pollution.
Understanding Corrosion
Corrosion, on the other hand, is a more severe form of deterioration. It’s the slow and steady eating away of the brass. It occurs when the brass reacts with corrosive substances like acids or salt, which break down its molecular structure. Corrosion can manifest in various forms, from surface pitting to deeper structural damage. It’s much more harmful than tarnish, because it can actually weaken the metal.
Environmental Factors
The environment plays a huge role. High humidity levels can accelerate both tarnish and corrosion, as moisture provides an ideal environment for these chemical reactions to occur. Exposure to air pollutants, which often contain corrosive chemicals, also accelerates the deterioration process. Even handling the shells can contribute to the problem. Fingerprints and body oils can leave behind residues that promote tarnishing. All of these elements contribute to the urgent need for careful cleaning and preservation.
WD-40: What Is It, and How Does It Work in the Realm of Metal?
The Basics of WD-40
WD-40, with its iconic blue and yellow can, is a product familiar to almost everyone. But what exactly *is* it, and how does it work its magic?
The Purpose of WD-40
WD-40 is marketed as a multi-purpose product, but its core function is to displace water. The “WD” in WD-40 actually stands for “Water Displacement,” and that’s the primary purpose of the spray. The original formula, developed in the 1950s, was intended to protect metal surfaces from rust and corrosion by pushing away moisture.
WD-40 Ingredients
The composition of WD-40 is a carefully guarded secret, but we know that it contains a mixture of ingredients, including solvents, oils, and propellants. The solvents are the heroes here, helping to dissolve dirt, grease, and other contaminants. The oils then create a thin barrier on the surface, acting as a temporary shield against moisture. Propellants are included to help the product to disperse into a fine mist.
How WD-40 Works
WD-40’s effectiveness comes from its specific actions:
The key process is water displacement. When applied to a metal surface, WD-40 forces moisture out, reducing the risk of corrosion. It gets into the tiny spaces where water molecules love to hang out.
It also has penetrative qualities. WD-40 can work its way into tight spaces, such as rusted threads or between metal components that are stuck together. This is useful in loosening things up.
Finally, it offers some cleaning potential. It helps remove dirt, grime, and some surface tarnish, thanks to its solvents.
These combined actions explain why WD-40 is used in a wide array of applications, from lubricating squeaky hinges to protecting tools from rust. But the question we need to answer is: Does its performance translate well to the delicate world of brass shells?
WD-40 and Brass Shells: The Balancing Act of Benefits and Risks
Potential Advantages
So, now we get to the crux of the question: **Can You Use WD-40 on Old Brass Shells?** The answer is not a simple yes or no. It requires a careful weighing of potential benefits against potential drawbacks.
Let’s start with the *potential advantages* of using WD-40:
It has good cleaning properties. WD-40 can effectively remove surface dirt, grime, and even some light tarnish, making the shells look cleaner and brighter. This makes it appealing to those looking for an easy cleaning solution.
It displaces water. Because it removes moisture, it may help to prevent further corrosion if applied *correctly*.
It can help loosen things. It can be useful if you have a shell with a stuck case or a part that is hard to move. WD-40’s penetrating qualities might ease these issues.
Potential Disadvantages
However, you also have to be aware of the *potential downsides*:
It’s *not* a long-term solution. WD-40 is not specifically designed for the long-term preservation of metal. Over time, the solvents evaporate, leaving behind an oily residue. This means the brass will be exposed to the elements again.
Residue is an issue. The oily residue can attract dust and dirt. This can potentially lead to the shell getting dirtier than it was before, negating the initial cleaning effort and potentially accelerating deterioration.
The residue can trap moisture. The WD-40 film, if not removed correctly, can trap moisture underneath, potentially leading to corrosion issues.
There’s the chance for damage. WD-40 may contain chemicals that could, over time, damage sensitive coatings or finishes that might be present on some antique brass shells.
Finally, it isn’t built for long-term preservation. There are better options to use.
Navigating the WD-40 Option: If You Choose To Proceed
Important Preparation
If, after considering the potential benefits and drawbacks, you decide to use WD-40 on your old brass shells, proceed with extreme caution.
A critical step: Always perform a test. Before you apply WD-40 to an entire shell, always test it on a small, inconspicuous area first. This helps to assess how the brass will react to the product and to identify any potential negative effects.
Step-by-Step Application
Here’s a step-by-step guide if you choose to use the product:
Before applying WD-40, clean the brass shell of any loose dirt, dust, or debris. A soft brush or cloth should be enough to remove any surface particles.
Apply the WD-40 with a light, even spray, concentrating on the areas that show tarnish or dirt. Avoid over-saturating the shell.
Immediately and thoroughly wipe the shell with a clean, soft cloth. This is *absolutely essential*. The goal is to remove the WD-40 from the surface, not to let it linger.
After wiping, you *must* take additional steps to ensure that the WD-40 residue is thoroughly removed. Clean the shell with a mild soap and water solution, and then completely dry it with a soft cloth.
Ensure that the shell is completely dry before storing it. Any remaining moisture can contribute to corrosion.
Be aware: Never overuse it. Always follow the instructions, and don’t use it on any surface you don’t have experience with. Also, do not store brass shells that have been treated with WD-40 directly inside a container. This is because the spray can alter any surrounding elements, and can cause damage to the shell itself.
Choosing Alternatives: Exploring Other Paths to Shell Preservation
Mechanical Cleaning Methods
If WD-40 doesn’t feel like the right fit for your cherished brass shells, there are other methods you can consider. These alternatives often offer a more targeted approach to cleaning and long-term preservation.
These solutions include:
Mechanical cleaning methods such as buffing and polishing. This involves using abrasive compounds to remove surface tarnish and restore the shine of the brass. This is a very gentle method. Be sure to use the right type of compound.
Ultrasonic cleaning. This is a great way to remove dirt and debris. However, for something as delicate as an old brass shell, be sure to research the method and see if it’s right for you.
Chemical Cleaning and Polishing
Chemical methods, like polishing and cleaning solutions. This is a much better way to remove tarnish from a brass shell. There are also many home remedies you can use.
Long-Term Preservation
Long-term preservation through protective coatings. Lacquers, waxes, and other sealants can act as barriers, protecting the brass from environmental factors.
Proper storage is another critical factor in preservation. Store your shells in a cool, dry environment, away from direct sunlight, and in a stable temperature. Consider using acid-free archival materials to protect the brass from any harmful substances that may be present in the storage container.
Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for Your Brass Shells
So, can you use WD-40 on old brass shells? The answer is that it might have some limited benefits for cleaning, but it’s not the ideal solution for long-term preservation. It’s crucial to understand the potential downsides and to choose alternative methods when necessary.
The best approach depends on the specific condition of your shell and your overall goals. A shell with significant tarnish might benefit from a careful cleaning with WD-40, followed by thorough wiping and removal of the residue. However, for valuable or historically significant shells, it’s often best to consult with a professional restorer.
Preserving old brass shells is a labor of love, and it can be a rewarding hobby. Your shells are a reflection of a moment in time.
Take the time to research and to understand the best methods for caring for your collection. By doing so, you can ensure that these beautiful pieces can be enjoyed by future generations.
