Removing paint and tape from used kegs

[kramling]

I have a number of used kegs I want clean up and re-brand with my own markings. What is the best solution for removing old tape and paint?

Also, what water/chemical solution is best to use on cleaning up the exterior of a lot of gunk covered stainless and copper vessels and stands.

I'm trying to bring some old brewing equipment back to life the most efficient way possible.

Cheers,
Steve

[BrewinLou]

For purchased used kegs I suggest an angle grinder with a twisted steel wire brush. For dirty tanks I would try a high pressure sprayer first.

[realale]

We used an abrasive pad that was attached to an angle grinder to remove paint stripes on some used kegs that we have bought in the past. It was a hook and loop system (similar to velcro), we purchased the fixture that held the pads at a welding shop along with the pads. They come in a couple of different grades, i would suggest the least abrasive. Be careful if you use a wire brush, make sure it is stainless steel and has never been used on carbon steel. If it was used on carbon steel it will impregnate carbon steel into your stainless kegs or equipment and you will develop rust spots that you can not ever get out.

As far as chemicals, i would recommend a passivating acid such as a phos/nitric mix. Check with you chemical supplier for what is available in your area. I have also heard that a mixture of yeast and acid works well for polishing copper, but i have never tried it myself. Anyone want to elaborate on this technique?

good luck

brad farbstein
real ale brewing co
blanco, tx

[canyon]

As RealAle made note a wire brush will impregnate little bits of iron etc. and forever rust!!! Don't do it!!
Make sure whatever you use (abrasive pads, grinding wheels, etc.) are virgin and from a clean source or you will contaminate your stainless!
Higher temps from an industrial blowdrier/paint stripper (or live steam) can soften and loosen tape/stickers but don't scrape with anything but virgin non-magnetic stainless or plastic. For paint 3M velcro abrasive pads are ok but expensive and smear/burn/melt the paint as much as remove it. Until someone comes up with the eco earth friendly solvent to wipe it off with I suggest you clean it and paint over it. 3M abrasive pads are the ticket for general dirt/grime. Use hot water, elbow grease, and if you need an acid use vinegar (you can even make your own) or for the other side try a mild hot water baking soda solution and a scrub brush.

[kramling]

Thanks for the info folks... I will give the 3M or similar abrasive pads a try.

Cheers,
Steve

[tsewong73]

I'm a welder. There are such things as 304 stainless wire cup brushes for use on a grinder. That should take the paint off toot-sweet. To loosen up old tape, try acetone. Goof Off works well, too. After the acetone or Goof Off, if there's any residue left, hit it with the wire brush. Using abrasive pads are fine, but you'll leave very rough spots. The wire brush will also abrade the surface, but not nearly as violently as the abrasive pads. When you use the wire brush, make sure you wear eye protection and long sleeves and gloves.

Buena suerte.

[Moonlight]

Old spent yeast spilled on my truck while taking it to a dairy, managed to eat through every layer of paint and primer down to raw steel. Haven't ever seen that before, but it could be less labor than a wire brush.

[edm1077]

Lets take this question and flip it now...Does any body know what the best paint to use on kegs is?

[GeorgeJ]

sounds old school, but one of the best things for cleaning metal, and expecially copper. is tomato ketchup (to a lesser extent, scrumpy cider works good too)

don't waste money on fancy metal cleaning potions, ketchup really cuts through it!
as a kid my mum used to restore a lot of old copper things, ketchup makes them super shiney!

[BrewinLou]

I have heard stories of old brewers using yeast as a rubbing compound on their copper vessels.

[Moonlight]

Especially yeast with coal ash...maybe today substitute DE or a brown scrubbie.