Loss of brass strength by electrolysis

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Catpop

Catpop

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Brass that is left exposed to the elements (months-years) on the range (especially in damp areas) can be affected by electroylsis much as brass is underwater. I know from my daily work that loss of zinc in brass overtime renders it completely distroyed to the point of being brittle enough to crumble in your fingers, much less hold the load it was originally designed to withstand.
Question: Should this issue be considered in reloading? I have noted old range brass that was found this deteriorated condition. But what about the in between stuff (discolored, etc.)?:scrutiny:
 
Yes, it must be considered.

Tarnished range pickup that turns pink when cleaned has had the zinc leached out of it and is no longer safe.

Same with black spots tumbling will not remove.

Maybe not gonna let go and shoot your eye out?

But it sure isn't worth the risk to me.

Brass is a lot cheaper then glass eyes!

rc
 
rcmodel said:
Yes, it must be considered.

Tarnished range pickup that turns pink when cleaned has had the zinc leached out of it and is no longer safe.

Same with black spots tumbling will not remove.

Maybe not gonna let go and shoot your eye out?

But it sure isn't worth the risk to me.

Brass is a lot cheaper then glass eyes!

rc
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A big +1 to this. It is also why I don't like wet tumbling with steel media. It hides many signs of bad brass. Add to that the fact I hate waiting for wet brass to dry, and I'm firmly of the opinion it is a bad idea.
 
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