Stainless Steel vs. Aluminum

[Sixstring78]

I'm getting ready to purchase all of the equipment to go all grain and was just wondering: are there any drawbacks to using aluminium pots instead of stainless steel?
Thanks!

[RichC999]

Some people are concerned with potential health risks from aluminum. It all started when they did autopsies on alzheimer's patience and found aluminum in their brains. But it seems there is no conclusive evidence. Personally I use both. I don't find there to be any difference mind you I'm not using a turkey fryer but instead doing stove top boils.
BTW congrats on going AG

Rich

[Sixstring78]

Thanks! That's pretty much what I was thinking, mind you, I will be using a turkey fryer. Appart from the fact that SS is probably more resistant to corrosion(I'm not sure if any of the cleaners or sanitizers would gradually corrode aluminum?) I can't imagine that aluminium would have much of a difference. And when I'm just getting started and need to ideally buy three separate pots, it will be much cheaper.

[ihomebrewing]

There is no problem with aluminum with respect to any causal diseases. Any relation to Alzheimer's has been dismissed years ago (but that is a whole different topic).

In fact, aluminum forms a passive layer of aluminum oxide, which makes the surface chemically inert to brewing conditions.

Use PBW to clean, when there is heavy soiling. Stay away from bleach. But that is recommended with stainless also.

Even with stainless, the HLT and MT can be cleaned with clear water and an abrasive sponge.

This saves on cleaner, and is just easier.

Aluminum has an advantage of greater heat dispersion over stainless, which is why they impregnate stainless pots with a layer of it on the bottom.

[RichC999]

and the cost savings makes aluminum the clear winner in my books.

[XXXXX]

I went over this debate with myself and some others also...ultimately I went with aluminum. It made more sense for me (could afford a 63L pot, instead of a smaller one, for example).

I've yet to use it, but I don't anticipate any issues.

[RichC999]

I wonder if aluminum is infecting my beer. Every time I drink 6 or 8 I have trouble talking, get into fights and suffer memory loss... What do you guys think?

[ihomebrewing]

I think we need further testing...

[B&SCUSTOMEQUIPMENT]

I experience the same symptoms, I don;t use any aluminum though. I have also experienced morning sickness, and my belly seems to be getting larger I hope I'm not pregnant!

[RichC999]

O my god!! I think it's spreading!