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oxidising copper

PostPosted: Mon Nov 12, 2012 3:58 pm
by Magnu420
ok I've been using copper rings that I've made
instead of using ceramic saddles now the copper
has been oxidising what's the best way to stop
them doing this

Re: oxidising copper

PostPosted: Mon Nov 12, 2012 4:24 pm
by Almanac
The copper removes Sulphides from the wash - that's a good thing. You can remove the discolouration with a solution of Citric Acid. Lemon juice is also good.

You can get Citric Acid from any pharmacy and just add a teaspoon to a half pint of water - always add the acid to the water, not the other way around.

Leave the copper to soak for an hour or two but don't leave it in the acid any longer or the metal will start to dissolve.

AM 8)

Re: oxidising copper

PostPosted: Mon Nov 12, 2012 4:30 pm
by alan
I don't think you can stop them oxidising you can soak them in hot water with a couple of tbs of citric acid,that's what i do with mine when i strip down my t500 column, i use stainless steel rings in my air still

Re: oxidising copper

PostPosted: Mon Nov 12, 2012 6:50 pm
by Capt-Cudellez
The best thing for cleaning copper I have used is hot backset from the still at the end of a run. Its also free.

Re: oxidising copper

PostPosted: Mon Nov 12, 2012 8:13 pm
by Iain
Probably best not to ask in a pharmacy I would go for a homebrew shop.

Citric acid is also used for cutting class a drugs :o so many pharmacies are no longer allowed / prepared to sell it.

and I work for the NHS before you all wonder how I know this lol :)

Re: oxidising copper

PostPosted: Mon Nov 12, 2012 9:51 pm
by Magnu420
cheers guys i just rinsed them in a diluted white vinegar,then under
cold tap for a few mins to wash the diluted vinegar off,they are a lot
cleaner before i did them earlier

Re: oxidising copper

PostPosted: Tue Nov 13, 2012 6:33 am
by Admiral Toad
Standard home brew steriliser/cleaner diluted as normal works well too I find