Stainless versus Enamel

[brewhead]

OK, he's not, but he is a metallurgist and a homebrewer,

when i took metallurgy in college i was pulling down a 3.8. i am an engineer and a homebrewer but not a god nor a metallurgist.

my point is this. when i was first starting out i bought quite a few things i wish someone has told me different on because i ended up just wasting money.

to answer the question: stainless vs enamel i would not choose enamel.

when i first started out i too was warned about aluminum. but as i reaserched the topic both on forums, books, and fda reports i have come to the conclusion that the aluminum urban legend is a bunch of bunk.

again it's your money and you can spend it any way you wish. i would say though that if you have even a remote desire to cultivate this hobby, buy smart.

 

[Axegod]

I think I know the answer to my question (A:no, go for it)...

What do you think of using an Aluminum kettle for heating sparge water?
It seems all the debate centres around the wort acidity..

I can't see any problems...it would be cheap and easy for me (especially
if I have to convince the wife that we also need a $100.00 12 gallon "rice cooker"
kettle)


Thanks,

 

[brewhead]

i would go for it

the thing you need to understand when dealing with aluminum is never use caustic chemicals such as bleach or starsan on them. use warm water and a very mild dish washing soap and a soft cloth or sponge. you want them clean you don't want them shinny.