Most of our fittings, knobs and hooks are made of untreated or nickel-plated brass, but we also have products in chrome, bronze, copper and iron. Here we have compiled some quick facts about and differences between different alloys.
Brass
Around the turn of the century, almost all fittings were made of brass. Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, which is both easy to work in and lasts for a long time. In Sweden, we have made ornaments in brass since the end of the 16th century and around the turn of the century, almost all fittings in this alloy were manufactured.
In the late 1800s, it became common to use antique treatment on the brass to give it an older appearance. At the beginning of the 20th century, the shiny brass came back in style just to be replaced with the darker tones again in the 1910s.
Our brass products are untreated, allowing the metal to shine and age beautifully over time. The oxidation is a natural reaction that causes the metal to darken. If you prefer a high glossy surface, you can set the brass occasionally.
Nickel-plated brass
Our nickel-plated brackets and handles made of brass that have undergone an electrochemical process and coated with a thin layer of nickel. The surface will then have a colder color and more silverlike finish. The technique of nickel plating became common in the early 20th century. In addition to the silver-like surface, nickel-plated details also have a harder surface and maintain its bright surface over time.
Chrome
Chrome is also used as surface treatment of metals such as brass. Chrome gives a shiny surface, enhances the hardness, strength and resistance of the alloy to corrosion. Chrome looks like nickel in its appearance, but has an even colder tone that draws slightly towards gray-blue.
Bronze
Bronze is an alloy between copper and tin, as well as one of humanity's oldest alloys. It has a low melting point and is relatively hard. With its golden color, it has a warm appearance, just like brass, but looks slightly more red compared to the brass's more intense yellow tone. In the early 1900s, bronze was often used for door handles and pulling handles to front doors.
Copper
Copper is a semi-woven metallic element that gives a warm visual impression thanks to its red color. It effectively conducts heat, making the metal useful in electronics, but also perfect as a material in a bathtub. In humid environments, it oxidizes and darkens, eventually turning into a beautiful green patina.
Iron
Both cast iron and wrought iron were commonly used in the old days but have gradually been outdone by newer steel alloys. For example, it was used in beautiful decorations on balconies and tower spikes. The difference between cast iron and wrought iron is the carbon content that is higher in the cast iron and as low as 0.4% in the wrought iron. The smaller proportion of carbon makes the wrought iron softer, which makes it easier to forge. In addition, it does not crack easily. Ductile iron is a newer material wich also contains magnesium. In addition to some of our window locks, there are also used iron segments in the automotive industry and other industries with high demands on strength and toughness.
