Aluminum Fermentation Vessels...?

[pmanz]

Does anybody have any idea whether fermenting in an aluminum vessel would be a bad thing. I’m talking strictly from a metalurgical standpoint.

The "Why" would I want to do that is a whole ‘nother question...

Thanks for your feedback...

[Bugeater]

As long as you have a good oxide layer built up on the inside of the "vessel", there should be no problem at all.

Now tell us the "Why?".

Wayne
Bugeater Brewing Company

[pmanz]

I'm stuck on this open fermentation bit right now and want a larger pot to ferment in. I can get aluminum pots relatively cheap from a restaurant supply store vs buying a big fancy stainless pot from one of the homebrew suppliers.

If anyone knows a place to get 30+ gal stainless vessel that has a 1:1 height to width ratio cheap, it would help but otherwise, I'll have to give aluminum a shot.

thanks

[DannyW]

Why does it need to be a metal container at all? Would plastic work? If you are worried about oxygen ingress, you can wrap the whole thing with mylar or foil. If you are worried about scratches, then you could use a
disposable drum liner.

[J.Brew]

Is the PH of fermenting beer to low for aluminum to be used? Is it not bad to use in an acidic environment? Do I sound like a retard? Do I like turtles?

[Bugeater]

The answer is no. While mildly acidic, wort is not acidic enough to bother aluminum that has a normal oxide layer. It is when you start cooking tomatoes, sauerkraut and the like that it becomes a problem.

I'm a cook/chef and most of my pots are aluminum and they get used for everything but the high acid stuff.


Wayne
Bugeater Brewing Company