I was reverse plating this gold tension hoop and noticed these patches of porous metal underneath (see pic). Is this a result of my method of reverse plating (12vdc in distilled vinegar solution)? Also is this red brass the standard for tension hoops? Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance - Kieran
Generally, items to be nickel or gold plated are flash plated with a bright copper. Think of it like a primer coat.
Thanks Bill, I have come across that before with other parts however after a bit of filing this appears to be copper or res brass all the way through
That looks like the joint where the hoop was silver brazed together, with a bit too much heat applied in the brazing, causing the zinc to boil. Also, 12 volts is a bit high for any type of plating. It is generally ok for electrocleaning, but a lower voltage over a longer period of time will accomplish the same thing and can keep the edges of the work from getting "burnt" quite as much.
