Whats the deal with brass?

[Swift Pint]

So I've heard that brass isn't really safe due to lead content, but that you can "pickle it" to remove the survace lead. Whats the dealio with this, is it a legitimate way of making brass safe?

I'm looking to make a HERMS, and was going to use 8mm copper for the HE. Most of the compression fittings, tank connectors etc seem to be brass. I was looking at something like this, so I could attach the HE in the inside of the HERMS unit, and then connect silicon hose to the barbs on the outside.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/CARAVAN-5-16-8mm- ... 20b43e8cac


Alternatively, how easy is it to for a complete n00b to weld/solder (whatever the correct term), that would give me more options & tbh would be a skill worth having.... but seems like it would involve a bunch of kit & practicing to get it right...
any thoughts?!

:drink:

 

[jamesb]

Brass is fine.

If you really want to de-lead it, follow John Palmers instructions.

 

[Swift Pint]

That's reassuring!! cheers.
:thumb:

 

[tubby_shaw]

No need to pickle or do anything with brass fittings that are sold for use with potable water as they are made from virtually lead free brass :thumb: