Blue Brass

[Nikuser]

Hi all,

I am new to shooting and reloading. I am on my third batch of +/-3000 pieces of 9mm brass. I use an ultrasonic cleaner and simple green solution mix and I was happy with my results. Don't care much about the shinny new brass look, but this small batch has me scratching my head.

From the left, #1 is what my last batch looked like. Dark, but clean (inside and out). #2 and #3 are from my last small batch out of the ultrasonic cleaner. Ran approx 2-300 pieces in the same usual solution, but this batch came out blue/green after drying in my dehydrator (also, a usual step). The odd part is #4 is from the same batch as #2 and 3. No clue why these particular few pieces (there is more than one) came out looking like, normal-ish.

Can you help?

 

[bigedp51]

Simple cure, stop using Simple Green.

The vinegar has acidic acid just like Lemi Shine used in wet tumbling with SS media.

Homemade Ultrasonic Solution for Reloading (comparison) HD

Below the German secret V-weapon.......vinegar!

NOTE, tumbling with untreated walnut media and Nu Finish car polish will keep the brass from tarnishing over time.

 

[Nikuser]

Noted.

Thanks for sharing. I try that on the second half of my dirty brass.

Update: turns out the tarnish wipes off easily. Kitchen scrubber and water took it right off. That being said, I'm not going to hand polish 300 cases.

 

[bigedp51]

Question.

Did you use any heat during the wash or drying of the brass.

I had a batch of cases turn color like yours when drying with heat. I think it was caused by not rinsing the brass off properly.

 

[Nikuser]

Question.

Did you use any heat during the wash or drying of the brass.

I had a batch of cases turn color like yours when drying with heat. I think it was caused by not rinsing the brass off properly.

In fact I do use heat with both the ultrasonic cleaner and the dehydrator. The cleaner heats the solution to to approx. 145°F. and I usually set my dehydrator to approx. 110°F. I usually rinse several times with tap water. I have seen recommendations for running a cycle in distilled water, but i really don't want the added expense. I don't mind the color. Actually had a guy comment about my brass not being as shinny as his. We had a nice chat about it. Then he compared my targets with his and he walked away. Don't get me wrong, I'm no marksman, but I'm proud of my progression in the last 4-6mths.