Brass Parts and Brewing

[Michael]

I have been watching a lot of clips on youtube and such that show how people have been building their gear. It seems that some make a big deal out of the fact that they did not use brass for their mash tun, or anything else.

 

What exactly is the problem with brass? One would think that if it had led issues, it would not be allowed for water supply lines?

[Haish]

There is lead in brass but you can treat it to remove the lead from the surface (see How to Brew). Its in there to make the brass easier to machine. No problem using brass in water supply as domestic water is slightly alkaline. However you will leach the lead when you treat it with acid i.e. wort. The amount of lead leached from untreated brass is likely negligible, and how much of it would end up in your beer is probably even less as the yeast will sequester it.

 

That is why people make a deal of it, I wouldn't be too concerned if you take the right precautions...

[Michael]

Interesting.

 

So, I built a mash tun, and just used it straight away. I did not take any precautions.

 

All of the fittings are brass. I wonder if I should just trash the batch. :(

[Haish]

There's a brew strong podcast on metals. Have a listen to it before you do anything drastic like dumping a batch.

[Pilgrim]

Why bother with brass. Check out Anzor Fasteners http://www.anzor.co.nz/ Select BSP Pipe Fittings from the first drop-down then select your fitting from the second one. All of my Mash Tun fittings are stainless and they were cheaper from Anzor than the equivelent brass fittings from my local plumbing merchant.

 

[Michael]

That is interesting. Maybe I can find those around here somewhere.

[Chris Banks]

If you cant find em there Im sure we can get some when youre over here?

[Richard Jack]

Meh, I'd just use it personally.... but that's just me.

[Druid]

I had the same issue with my mash tun bits - I just followed the "How to Brew" instructions ie 5% Acetic acid (cleaning strength vinegar) and hydrogen peroxide in the ratios indicated by Palmer.  It's pretty easy. Don't overdo it though and let the solution start turning green - you'll have to start again,

 

One day I will go to all stainless.