Brewery Setup Blog

Brewing beer is a meticulous process that involves the use of specialized equipment. Stainless steel is the material of choice for most brewery equipment manufacturer due to its durability, corrosion resistance, and ease of cleaning. However, even the most robust stainless-steel equipment can develop rust over time, which can affect the safety and quality of your beer. In this article, we'll explore why your stainless-steel brewery equipment may rust and how to clean and avoid rust.

Stainless steel is known for its resistance to rust and corrosion, but it is not completely immune to these issues. Here are some reasons why stainless-steel brewery equipment may become rusty:

Chlorides in Water

Stainless steel contains chromium, which forms a passivating oxide layer on the surface that prevents rust and corrosion. However, if the water used to clean or sanitize equipment contains high levels of chlorides, it can destroy this protective layer, leaving the steel susceptible to rust.

Exposure to Acidic Substances

Acidic substances, such as beer stone or acidic cleaning solutions, can also break down the protective coating on stainless steel, making it prone to rust and corrosion.

Physical Damage

Physical damage to the stainless-steel surface, such as scratches, dents, or gouges, can also damage the protective layer, lead to rust.

Lack of Maintenance

Lack of maintenance, including inadequate cleaning and sanitation, can lead to the buildup of organic material on the surface of the equipment. This material will absorb moisture and cause rust.

Poor-Quality Stainless Steel

Poor-quality stainless steel or a manufacturing process that didn't maintain the correct composition of the steel can result in reduced rust and corrosion protection for equipment.

To prevent stainless steel brewery equipment from becoming rusty, it's essential to clean and sanitize it regularly using proper techniques and solutions. You should also ensure that the water used to clean or sanitize the equipment does not contain high levels of chlorides. Additionally, it's important to inspect and maintain the equipment regularly to identify any damage and fix it promptly.