Lead-freeCDA 240Warm Gold Deposit ColorHigher Copper Than 70/30 GradeZinc Die Cast Sealing LayerNugget and Flat Top Forms
80% Cu / 20% Zn brass electroplating anode, CDA 240. Forms: nuggets and cast flat top anodes. Used for decorative brass plating and zinc die cast sealing.
80/20 Brass Alloy CDA 240 is a copper-zinc electroplating anode containing 80% copper and 20% zinc, producing a redder more gold-toned brass deposit color than the 70/30 formulation due to the higher copper content. This composition is used for decorative brass plating applications requiring a warmer more copper-rich appearance – common in high-end decorative hardware, luxury goods, and antique finish reproductions where the specific color tone of the deposit is specified. Like the 70/30 formulation, 80/20 brass plating is also used as a functional sealing and diffusion barrier layer on zinc die castings prior to nickel or chrome topcoat plating, providing the same porosity sealing and zinc diffusion barrier benefits with a different base deposit color. CDA 240 designation confirms the alloy composition and ensures consistent bath behavior and deposit color across production runs. Forms: 1″ x 1″ x 1″ nuggets for anode baskets and cast flat top anodes for direct rack mounting.
Available Forms
Cast Flat Top Anode Approx 1-1/4" Each, 1" x 1" x 1" Nuggets
Product Code
48012A
Technical Info
Thermal Properties
Melting Point (Solidus)1,770°F (966°C)
Melting Point (Liquidus)1,830°F (999°C)
Physical Properties
Density (imperial)0.313 lbs/in³
Density (metric)8.67 g/cm³
Primary ElementsCu · Zn
SpecificationCDA 240
Lead FreeYes
Key Features
Warm Gold Deposit ColorHigher Copper Than 70/30 GradeZinc Die Cast Sealing LayerNugget and Flat Top Forms
Nominal Composition
80% Cu
20% Zn
Frequently Asked Questions
Common technical inquiries regarding 80/20 Brass Alloy
The choice between 80/20 and 70/30 brass anodes is driven by the target deposit color specification. The 80/20 composition produces a warmer redder gold tone due to the higher copper content while 70/30 produces a brighter more yellow brass tone. Luxury goods, high-end decorative hardware, and antique gold finish applications that specify a rich warm color typically call for 80/20. Applications requiring a classic bright yellow brass appearance specify 70/30.
Switching anode compositions changes the relative dissolution rate of copper and zinc entering the bath, gradually shifting the copper-to-zinc ratio in the bath solution and consequently the deposit color. The transition is not instantaneous - bath analysis should be monitored closely during the changeover and the bath formulation adjusted to maintain the target deposit composition before the new anode reaches steady-state dissolution. Running test panels and comparing deposit color to the production standard is recommended until the bath stabilizes.
Brass anode nuggets should be periodically removed from baskets and cleaned of oxide and slime buildup that forms on the anode surface and reduces dissolution efficiency. Cleaning in a dilute acid rinse (typically 10-15% sulfuric acid) followed by water rinse removes surface scale. Any nuggets that have dissolved below approximately 1/4" in any dimension should be removed as they may escape basket perforations. The basket itself should be inspected for corrosion or perforation damage that could release nugget fragments into the bath.
CDA 101 oxygen-free high-conductivity copper anode in nugget and 1″ ball forms. Used for copper electroplating of ammunition, coinage, electrical connectors, and decorative components.
Electrolytic Grade N nickel in 1/4″ x 3/4″ pellet form. Used for decorative and functional nickel electroplating providing corrosion protection, wear resistance, and high luster finish.
