Fittings for Vacuum racking.

[BigDfromTN]

Is there any problem using Brass vs plastic fittings to rack wine?

I have some brass fittings already. I see others talk about using Plastic elbows etc. Is that just a cost thing?

TIA,
Don

 

[Runningwolf]

I don't see anything wrong with brass but someone else might have a logical reason as why not to, after all stainless steel is used. I have only seen plastic and stainless used though.

 

[ibglowin]

I would not recommend it. Brass is an alloy of Copper and zinc which are highly reactive metals. Stick with plastic or stainless steel which are non reactive.

This is of course if the fitting will come into contact with the wine or sulfite solution.

 

[Runningwolf]

Thanks for clearing that up Mike. I didn't know the reason but knew I never saw brass used.

 

[Flem]

Just curious. What does it react with? The water, alcohol, yeast, acid, etc.?

 

[ibglowin]

It will react with the low pH (acid) in the wine.

 

[Wade E]

What he said^^^^^^^^^. I have some fittings maybe if you need them. I have have 1 - 3/8" x 3/8" barb elbow, lots of 1/4" x 1/4" barb elbows and lots of 1/2" MPT x3/8" barb for filter housings.