WW1 Shell Fuses Cleaning

[Jimbo]

Hello, i have found a couple of shell fuses whilst field walking over the last few years, i was hoping that someone can offer me some advice.
I have the fuses still as found, covered in mud and the brass tarnished.
What method would anyone recommend me using, in order to clean them as close to 'as new' condition as possible?

I have tried using 'brillo' pads with metal polish, but am not too keen on the finish from this method.

I have read brief methods in-which people use acid? These seem to have nice results.
Can anyone offer me any guidance?

Many Thanks
Jimbo

[Nige H]

Hi Jimbo,
depending on the type of brass and type of corrosion then I would say Hydrochloric acid, I use this myself on Leaded brass fittings which have white lead oxide on the surface, the Hydrochloric acid will dissolve the lead from the surface and also help to reduce the pink tarnish that forms underneath, general tarnish of a dark brown nature will also be softened up, literary dip and leave the items for just a few minutes and then rinse in boiling water, before then finally polishing off the deposits using very fine wire wool.

Nige.