Used copper of unknown origin?

[realestwhiteboy]

I know origin of fermenters matters, but does the origin of the copper matter? Or is a vinegar soak, vinegar run, and sac run going to clean it no matter it's previous use?

Edit: It's a 2-foot piece of 2" copper that is planned to use as the column on a keg, all straight and no bends (if that affects the answer at all).

Why I'm asking:
I bought some "new, unused" 2in copper online. Clearly, it's very well used, complete with tape glue and scratches.

I contacted the shop to find out what it was previously used on (and hopefully get a partial refund). But with them claiming it was unused to begin with, I'm not exactly trusting of whatever they say was previously inside the pipe.

[acfixer69]

That very much could be new old stock. Or truck stock. Never used.

[realestwhiteboy]

That very much could be new old stock. Or truck stock. Never used.

You know what, you could be correct. I haven't cut the plastic open, just in case everyone came in here advising to send it back and not use ... but the inside of the copper does look clean & shiny from what I can see, it just looks used on the outside.

And this was bought from a brew store's eBay account ... so could be something that cosmetically they didn't want to sell in their shop, so they discounted and threw it on eBay.

[acfixer69]

That happens all the time. Cutoffs from a contracted job often sold on ebay.

[Demy]

It looks new but has not been used for a long time, the plastic has condensed over time. In any case, a good cleaning is necessary.

[zapata]

Cleaning will be sufficient. You may find hot citiric acid solution a bit more aggressive than vinegar for the pre-cleaning if you want it to shine.

[Stonecutter]

As long as you clean it properly you’ll be fine. I’ve got leftover scrap 2” copper from a filthy disgusting construction site that I am currently using to build with. Its got some discoloration blotches and looks that leave much to be desired but she’ll clean up for the dance just fine.

[Windy City]

That happens all the time. Cutoffs from a contracted job often sold on ebay.

I own a plumbing company and that is exactly what it looks like.
Build what you want to build and then soak in a 10% solution of citric acid (does not need to be hot)
It will look like new. Still need to do your cleaning protocol (vinegar/ sacrificial run) afterwards

[Twisted Brick]

You can scrape the inside of length of 2" copper easily with a good stainless steel scrubbie and two dowels. Keep the scrubbie stationary inside the pipe between the ends of the dowels. The scrubbie will compress and press against the pipe as you slide the pipe up and down. Works a treat.

[Stonecutter]

Damn fine trick. Thanks TB

[acfixer69]

You can scrape the inside of length of 2" copper easily with a good stainless steel scrubbie and two dowels. Keep the scrubbie stationary inside the pipe between the ends of the dowels. The scrubbie will compress and press against the pipe as you slide the pipe up and down. Works a treat.

No need to be a stainless scrubbie as you will be doing the cleaning runs after any way. You can keep the SS for where the SS is needed. A rag with heads or acetone on a wire pulled through or pushed through with a rod works as well also.

[Twisted Brick]

No need to be a stainless scrubbie as you will be doing the cleaning runs after any way. You can keep the SS for where the SS is needed. A rag with heads or acetone on a wire pulled through or pushed through with a rod works as well also.

Totally agree. I don't think a whole lot can get by a vinegar and sac run much less the 'fores and heads of the first strip. Still, I know its anal, but I like the feeling of getting everything as pristine (in and out) as it can get before sending a piece out.
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Start yer buildin', realestwhiteboy!