Clear coat for copper lines?

[PiratePast40]

Looking for a way to keep copper coolling lines looking good. Has anyone been successful with spraying clearcoat on the copper to protect it? Any other ways that work other than constantly polishing to remove the oxidation?

 

[mphy98]

Re: Clear coat for copper lines?

Clear coat would work as it will seal out the oxygen and humidity that causes the copper to turn green.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Clear coat for copper lines?

I would think clear lacquer would work, at least for a while. The marine environment will eventually penetrate it, however. Have you tried a metal polish followed by a wax coating? If that works for a while, you might weigh it against stripping the clear lacquer off, cleaning and recoating.

 

[Ned L]

Re: Clear coat for copper lines?

Rustoleum has a clear coat that holds up pretty well for me. Make sure everything is completely clean & dry before spraying.

 

[lkbum]

Re: Clear coat for copper lines?

Try this link to McMaster Carr.... Exterior Clear coat for nonferrous metals such as copper ... http://www.mcmaster.com/#lacquer-paint/=cd0rjg

 

[PiratePast40]

Re: Clear coat for copper lines?

Thanks for the input. Cleaned everything up with 3M cutting compound. Does a great job. Went through several rags due to the black oxidation. I then covered the pipes with 3 coats of Plasticoat clear lacquer. The lacquer actually dulled the finish a bit.

Well see how it turns out several months from now. Worst case is my cooling lines oxidize and look like everyone elses!

Thanks again for the ideas.