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Removing zinc coating from Aluminum for Safety at bbq temps
Q. I am trying to use these 2 products inside a smoker/bbq where temps will be up to 500 °F or less. They will be holding up a second grate inside a smoker/bbq.
www.knapeandvogt.com/255_Series_Aluminum_Pilaster_Standards.html?page=details.716 ⇩
www.knapeandvogt.com/244_Series_Pilaster_Support.html?page=details.558 ⇩
spec sheet here:
www.knapeandvogt.com/scripts/download_doc.php?prod_id=558&id=837&filename=233 & 255 Series Specs OL2251 121509.pdf&filetype=application/pdf ⇩
I have soaked the support clips in vinegar
[in bulk on
eBay or
Amazon] to remove the "Anochrome" finish which is a zinc coating. I have also soaked the aluminum rails to remove any zinc from them as well. The clips are made from steel. Will these products be ok to have in temps ranging up to 500 °F without poisoning the food? Should I use a bbq high temp spray paint on them to keep them safer?
Thanks, Dan.
Hobbyist - Roseville, California, USA
March 1, 2011
[Ed. note: The above links are broken; thankfully, Archive.org's wonderful Wayback Machine saved copies 
]
A. Hi, Dan.
I see zinc plated hardware and details in all my BBQ and gas grills. Zinc is a micronutrient, not a poison; some people feel aluminum is such a "poison" because it has no biological role. Personally, I think you've taken unnecessary steps while still using materials not intended for your purpose; and I can't imagine that artificial organics products like paint improve the situation. But good luck.
Regards,
Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
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