The metals we work with
Metals vary in their properties, appearance and behaviour during processing. Knowing them thoroughly is part of our craft and the starting point for every project.
We work with iron, steel, stainless steel, aluminium, brass, copper and bronze. YDF helps you choose the material and finish, assessing each metal's properties against the technical requirements, intended use and desired appearance.
Six metals compared
This comparison provides an initial guide. The final choice is developed around the project and the finish sample.
| Metal | Characteristics | Typical finishes | Common uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iron or carbon steel | An alloy of iron and carbon, produced in different grades. Unprotected surfaces can oxidise; protection is selected according to the environment and intended finish. | Natural iron, black iron, Corten, champagne, titanium lacquer, waxed sheet metal. Steel finishes | Structures and frames, shelving, shelves, garment rails and counters for stores |
| Stainless steel | Durable and reliable, it requires minimal maintenance and maintains an attractive appearance. It has high resistance to atmospheric corrosion and notable mechanical properties, allowing thinner sections than some other materials. | Satin, polished and black stainless steel, brushed vintage finishes, gold finishes including PVD, decorative patterns and laser marking. Stainless steel finishes | Staircases and balustrades, façades, shop display cases and desks, cladding |
| Aluminium | A ductile, silver-coloured metal. Its light weight makes it extremely versatile and flexible. It resists oxidation through the formation of a very thin oxide layer that protects the metal beneath. | Satin aluminium, alu leaf, brass finish, gold finish, and painted in colours specified for the project. Copper, bronze and aluminium finishes | Profiles, handles, components where weight matters, structures, frames |
| Brass | An alloy of copper and zinc that can oxidise, sometimes with added elements such as manganese, iron, aluminium and tin. Bright yellow in colour, it is ductile, malleable and offers good corrosion resistance. | Polished, satin, brushed and burnished brass, light and dark bronzed brass, antique brass, vintage brass, oxidised brass and textured finishes. Brass finishes | Bespoke furniture, decorative cladding, staircases and balustrades, handles, retail elements, cladding, panels, skirting, made-to-drawing profiles, lamps |
| Copper | A metal with a characteristic pinkish or reddish colour and very high corrosion resistance. It is ductile and malleable, and tougher than iron. In all likelihood, it is the metal humankind has used for the longest time. | Satin copper, brushed copper, polished copper and antique satin copper. Copper, bronze and aluminium finishes | Accessories and design objects, such as the monolith I Love You; components for industry and lighting |
| Bronze | An alloy of copper and another metal, which may be tin, aluminium, nickel or beryllium. It has good mechanical properties and excellent corrosion resistance, and is used in many applications. | Satin bronze, antique satin bronze. Copper, bronze and aluminium finishes | Cladding and large-format sheets, as at the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Milan |
From the finish sample collection
The finish is chosen from a sample and checked in relation to the metal, geometry and use of the component.
An organic raised texture formed by overlapping almond shapes, like petals or smooth pebbles. Made on real brass polished to a champagne tone, it plays with the light in deep, velvety reflections, creating a precious, sculptural surface with a handcrafted character.
An uneven, subtly shaded texture, with marks and colour variations that recall old metal shaped by time and natural oxidation. Made on real brass, it creates a surface with an authentic, timeworn appeal, rich in history and character.
A texture of irregular tesserae, reminiscent of a stone mosaic or reptile skin. The brass is hammered by hand, then prepared and bronzed to create a three-dimensional surface in cool, weathered tones, rich in movement and character.
A texture of softly contoured grooves that create a regular, luminous rhythm across the surface. Made on real brass and then bronzed, it produces an elegant finish with an architectural character.
A textured finish on aluminium, created with a golden base and a copper-green overcoat that recalls the effect of natural copper oxidation. The hammered texture enhances the interplay between the two colours, creating a vibrant, tactile surface rich in depth and character.
Aluminium coated to create a bronzed brass effect, worked with vertical scales that catch the light and create depth and movement. A dense, tactile texture that brings warmth and character to the surface.
What to consider when choosing a material
Intended use and environment
Interiors, exteriors, damp environments and surfaces subject to contact or wear require different assessments of corrosion resistance, protection and maintenance.
Appearance and project identity
Colour, reflections and texture contribute to the character of a furnishing. Brass, copper, bronze, stainless steel and aluminium offer different aesthetic possibilities.
Geometry and processes
Shapes, thicknesses, bend radii, folds, milling and welds influence the choice of material and finishes compatible with the required result.
Finish
Polishing, satin finishing, brushing, burnishing and painting change the appearance of a surface. Possible oxidation, stability of appearance and ease of cleaning should also be considered.
Metals in our projects
Metal finishes and processes
Finishes
Metalworking
Metals: frequently asked questions
Is brass or steel better for luxury furniture?
The choice depends on the type of furniture, the desired effect and the environment. Combining several materials can also be an interesting solution for some projects.
Can aluminium be finished to look like brass?
Aluminium can be finished with bronzed or patinated effects, but it remains a different material from brass. YDF also offers aluminium surfaces: the choice should be made from a sample, distinguishing the metal substrate from the visual effect of the finish.
What thicknesses can you process for each material?
It depends on the metal and the process: laser cutting, bending, V-groove folding and rolling have different limits. Send us the drawing for an assessment.
Let's discuss your project
Tell us about the project and its specifications. We would be happy to assess it.
- Telephone
- +39 031 782114
- info@ydf.it