Why We Use Marine-Grade, Virgin Brass

You are a lighting professional. And whether you’re new to the industry or can remember having to keep a voltage meter in your back pocket, your customers count on your expertise. And you, in turn, rely on manufacturers to provide materials that will last. But have you experienced the frustration because that beautiful powder coated aluminum fixture you installed 2 years ago has already begun to chip and corrode? And what about the PVC well lights with aluminum covers? Sure, they were less expensive but how quickly did the PVC turn gray and the aluminum lose its paint? Don't you wish these fixtures would last as long as you were told they would? Then there’s brass. We all know it’s better than powder coated aluminum and plastic but did you also know not all brass is the same quality?
Brass and other metals ready to be recycled
After working with dozens of engineers and material specialists since 2011, we found out the truth! Our team discovered that many manufacturers continue to use recycled brass but that virgin, "pure" brass really is the better material for several reasons: Recycled brass is made from an enormous variety of discarded objects often containing non-brass metals. They are thrown together, melted down and poured into molds for new products. And, in most cases, nothing is done to remove impurities like lead and aluminum, which can lead to pitting and an overall faded looking fixture. Recycled brass contaminants can also have differing melting temperatures and corrosion resistance, which can create small cavities compromising the structural integrity of a fixture during and after production. Because of what we’ve found we now exclusively use marine-grade, virgin brass to manufacture our fixtures so they’ll last longer and look better for all of your projects. Don’t lose any more time or customers because of flaking powder, fading plastic, or broken brass fixtures. You don’t plan on quitting in five years, so why would you choose a product that won’t last that long? If you haven't already, give us a call today at 703-454-8207 and learn more about how Sterling Lighting can help you grow your business.