Important: Safety Warning
This page describes trade processes that use dangerously toxic materials such as cyanide solutions, mercury amalgams, or strong acids. These processes require training, equipment, and precautions far beyond what the text describes.
This information has been left in for historical purposes but should not be acted upon.
Dipping
A process by which a bright surface is imparted to the alloy or metal after it has undergone the process of pickling, scouring, and washing. Dipping consists of immersing the article in pure nitrous acid for a moment, but no iron or wood implements are to be used. Brass tongs are best for this purpose, and the vessels should be earthenware.
If the work appears coarse and spotted after dipping, the dip must be repaired by adding sulphuric acid; should it be too smooth after it has been dipped, add muriatic acid and nitric till it shows the right appearance. Dips should be kept stirred, and not allowed to settle whilst using. See STAINING METALS; PICKLING; ORMOLU DIPPING ACID; QUICK DIPPING-ACID; LACQUERING.