I wanted to post a recent e-mail exchange (today in fact) between John Palmer and I on this exact subject. For the record, I've used oxyclean (with no ill effects that I can tell), and have also done the no cleaner/soft scrub on my aluminum turkey fryer pot. Given the conflicting info, I was curious to get an expert's opinion. See below. John's respone is first, my question afterward.
Hi Mark,
It's okay to use them to remove protein, but they may darken the aluminum a bit, especially if it soaks for a long period. You dont really want a dark gray aluminum, because there is a greater risk of that aluminum being dissolved in the next batch. So, after soaking with PBW or Oxiclean, buff the inside with plain water and a kitchen scrubby to take off any loose oxide that occured.
Cheers,
John
On Apr 30, 2012, at 11:28 AM, Mark wrote:
Hi Mr. Palmer,
I know you're a busy guy, so I'll make this quick. How To Brew, 3rd. edition, mentions using percarbonate cleaners to clean aluminum. I believe Oxyclean (also PBW) are percarbonate cleaners. Is it ok to use them on an aluminum brew kettle, will it remove the protective layer of oxidation? I'm asking because I seem to find conflicting information on this.