Repair of unknown bronze /bronze alloy casting

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I'm seeking a cautious approach to repair a casting of unknown properties. The piece in question is a wall sconce that appears to be made of bronze/bronze alloy. TIG or OXY/ACET Welding/Brazing is my first choice, epoxy a last resort. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, John. 11/15/07.


B.J. Severtson's picture

sconce

John.
It's rather common for pcs of this type to be cast from low melting point white metals and then plated. Let's find that out first. Go to the back of the pc use a graver or small file to see if you break through the plating. If you find it's a plated piece you have only one option. No heat. Can you send a picture? Anyway scratch test first let us know. Brad


John Hampton's picture

Unknown Metal

Brad,thanks for your comments. I'll scratch the reverse of it and get back to you when I think I know something. If it is "pot metal" I suppose epoxy will do as there is not much weight involved. I am doing this as a favor for someone so I don't want to damage it. Thanks again for the tip.

P.S.
I feel really lucky to have found this site !


B.J. Severtson's picture

Welcome aboard

Welcome aboard John.
You are very Wise to approach this repair slowly. Many here will be happy to help. Enjoy ArtMetal Brad


don thibodeaux's picture

what type of metal?

If you send a pic, maybe I could help you out. I work for a conservation company and this seems right up my alley. I do a lot of oxy repair work; from bronze to zinc to copper to steel etc. Plus, is there any patina work you'll need to do? Any way, good luck.

Don T.


John Hampton's picture

Unknown Metal

Don, thanks for your suggestions, I really appreciate

your interest. But after scratching the back of one sconce

I found that it was actually made of cast white or "pot met-

al. So I suppose any use of heat is out of the question.

Thanks just the same, John.