Copper and brass in lye?

[Mike Goulet]

Sorry if it's a bit off topic metal wise,  but i was curious if it's safe to use lye bath for tin lined copper pots and brass handles.

just because it will make the cleaning process a whole lot faster if it's safe to do so

I got this set for $45 tax in at thrift shop ,  how could i resist eh?

Thanks
Mike

[Cheryl Watson]

NO... NO....NO

No aluminum, or brass, or copper, or tin, in lye bath!!!
It is reactive to these metals. 

I'll look for the supporting documentation and post when I find it.

Use Wright's Copper Cream on that cookware.... better than sliced bread.... :)  works great on brass and stainless steel too....

You know I have a 'thing' goin' on with copper too...... :D

[Cheryl Watson]

This is a good easy to understand recap of what I've found in much more technical language elsewhere:

http://www.practicalmachinist.com/vb/gunsmithing/sodium-hydroxide-caustic-soda-lye-useful-stuff-158041/

[Mike Goulet]

Thanks Cheryl  for the heads up :)

Well it's not a thing for me re cookware, but have to admit, the price was right

it's a heavier gauge copper i think,  largest pot is just under 5lbs

the insides are a bit rough,  some signs of copper coming thru,  been using  Barkeeps Friend on that , aswell as on outside ( lightly), will look into the cost of retinning them ,  maybe lol

I do have buffing wheels and pads,  just tested  a lid trying that,   may be the least elbow grease approach  as i have  different grit paste as well,,


 it's just  cleaning the food junk out from under the handles is why i thought lye

 again  thanks

[Jim Glatthaar]

Mike, what's the address of that thrift shop ;D  JK

Beautiful copper set.  I have some commercial grade copper pieces, which I love to cook with, almost as much as I love my CI.  I use Bar Keeper's Friend to clean and, to polish, I use ketchup.  Just coat the copper with a thin layer let it sit for about 1 hr. then wash off.  I shines the copper nicely.

[Gary Salsman]

The posted link says lye will attack chromium and copper. I'm not saying it won't, but if it does, it takes a while. I had a chrome plated wagner skillet in for over a week, and it didn't apear to touch it. Maybe a stronger solution works better, mine is 1 pound to 5 gallons

[Mike Goulet]

Thanks Jim,  and Cheryl  for the link

I tried the ketchup thang... one must be  sure to make an even coat lol   ,  non the less i did some rough buffing  and here's what it's looking  like...

i actually liked the patina look .. at first,    but it sure do look pretty when buffed, 

this 350K size photo stuff is a killer lol