Lead in brass

[homeuser6]

i have seen a few posts wondering about the safety of brass. as there is no data about the release of free lead from leaded alloys, a vaper may make the decision to use a brass (or any alloy) device based on the presence of lead. a lead surface test kit such as product #LS104 from PRO-LAB will reveal the presence of any detectable level of lead. any nickel or other plating will need to be scraped off the test area. all nickel plated brass parts i have tested so far have proved to be leaded. i now use only stainless.

 

[Ryedan]

Naval brass doesn't contain lead, but you are correct that all others do. It has been pretty well established that the issue is surface lead after machining is completed and that more lead does not leach out over time. Soaking in a solution of 2 parts Vinegar and 1 part hydrogen peroxide, the common 3% solution, for no longer than 5 minutes will eliminate the surface lead. If the solution starts to turn green and the brass darkens, then the parts have been soaking too long and the copper in the brass is beginning to dissolve, exposing more lead. The solution has become contaminated and the part should be re-cleaned in a fresh solution. Some brewers do this with their brass equipment.

Hope this helps.

 

[steved5600]

If you want to see if there is lead in the brass you might try something like this to check it out. 3M LeadCheck Swabs, 8-Pack - Paint Drop Cloths - Amazon.com