(Avoiding) Mixing Metals ...

irh1 · 14 May 2013 at 18:33

So ... hopefully not a dumb set of questions, but just wanted to avoid metal corrosion (as that sounds bad) ....

1. Nickel Plating (which a lot of components appear to have) - does it matter what the Nicket is coating (i.e. can we assume perfect coating)?

2. Brass vs Copper - ok since Brass is derivative of copper?

3. Avoid Copper and Aluminium I have seen on other posts, but also avoid Silver and Nickel?

Shawy · 14 May 2013 at 18:39

I think it's fairly safe to assume perfect coating (now at least).

Brass and copper are, indeed, fine.

Yes avoid aluminium inside your loop. Silver is relatively unreactive and will be fine in your loop.

irh1 · 14 May 2013 at 19:00

ok, thanks

andybird123 · 14 May 2013 at 19:23

I ran an ally rad for 2 years with no corrosion evident, just by running a coolant with corrosion protection

if they arent in direct contact there is very little to worry about

Avenged7Fold · 14 May 2013 at 19:38

With a decent premixed fluid, it is pretty difficult for corrosion to get the better of your loop even with aluminium rads.

OptimaLnrg · 14 May 2013 at 22:04

I'm fairly sure putting any silver in your loop invalidates EK and koolance warranties?

irh1 · 15 May 2013 at 08:37

thanks for all the help, I guess it raises the question of what to look out for in a coolant fluid and/or recommendations.

OptimaLnrg's comment also reminds me that certain manufacturers tie their warranties to using their coolants which (given the fluid by definition touches all parts) means you either buy completely from them, or are not covered. This is all sold by component (including the above manufacturers) and I assume that people do mix and match manufacturers (and it appears subtly different metals used is one less hurdle to this), but how do you get past this one?

ubersonic · 15 May 2013 at 09:45

Basically, all metals react, just some not as much as others, just make sure you use a coolant with a corrosion inhibitor and all will be good, even with aluminium (most of the alu horror storys are down to user error).