zinc coated milk can

[steer2424]

Can I use a zinc coated milk can for a boiler? It is 10 gallon and in good shape. I have been told both ways. Just trying to get more advice thanks

[stoker]

zinc is something you should not use, certainly not in the vapor path or condenser, a boiler can be argued about.
preferably not, look for a keg.

[junkyard dawg]

I think that would be a very very bad choice for a boiler. get a keg

[BW Redneck]

Zinc'll scratch a bit and rust through before you know it. Even though the home site says that your boiler can be a bit less than food grade, no still operator, no matter how experienced, can guarantee that their rig will not boil over.

Kegs are bulletproof, easy(ish) to modify, and are used for transporting potable substances, so they'd be your best bet. Get stainless steel if possible, but aluminum will work as long as you don't beat the shit out of it and you don't mind the black coating you'll get on the inside.

[BMAC]

IMHO I think the aluminum thing is bad bad bad new too. That black substance is aluminum oxide. I know we ingest that stuff all the time when you eat out at Restaruants, but you just have to ask yourself if it is good for you.

I believe it is NOT!!!! SS or copper is the way to go....

Copper gives better heat transfer. SS is best as its a bitch to break it down...

[BW Redneck]

Yes, aluminum isn't exactly ideal, but it'll work if you have no other choice.

IMO, stainless steel would be best for a boiler because I want to use my boiler to cook my mashes in. For me, grain is cheaper than sugar.

But, if you are doing just cleared sugar washes, and you're only using the 2" opening, AL will work.

[Dnderhead]

Those milk cans were tin plated not galvanized