Trace Metal Contamination From Brass Fittings

Abstract

Data were obtained during a two-year field and laboratory corrosion study that implicated brass valves and fittings as a potential source of lead, copper, and zinc in drinking water, particularly in standing water. Contamination from this source was found to be a significant cause of metal concentrations that exceeded maximum contaminant levels. These findings should be considered in the design of water sampling programs, the selection of plumbing materials for household use, and the planning of corrosion-rate measurement and plumbing material solubility experiments.

Bacteria Removal from Stormwater Runoff Using Tree Filters: A Comparison of a Conventional and an Innovative System

“…The removal of copper, lead, and zinc could not be quantified because during both sampling seasons, these metals leached from the brass fitting and welds on the stainless steel sampling pan. Similar observations were reported by Schock and Neff [38].…”

Toxicological Profile for Zinc

“…Seventy-five percent of the zinc values were below 0.236 mg/L. Other investigators have attributed the higher concentrations of zinc in household tap waters, compared to finished drinking water, to distribution and transmission lines (Maessen et al 1985;Ohanian 1986;Schock and Neff 1988).…”

“…Zinc has been detected in air (Barrie and Hoff 1985;Duce et al 1975;EPA 1980d;Evans et al 1984;John et al 1973;Lioy et al 1978;Lloyd and Showak 1984;Patterson et al 1977;Pratt et al 2000;Ragaini et al 1977;Saltzman et al 1985;Spicer et al 1996;Zoller et al 1974), water (Bruce and McMahon 1996;Coale and Flegal 1989;Cole et al 1984;EPA 1980d;Hale 1977;HazDat 2005;Heit et al 1989;Maessen et al 1985;Minear et al 1981;NAS 1977;Nriagu et al 1996;Ohanian 1986;Sañudo-Wilhelmy and Gill 1999;Schock and Neff 1988;Scudlark et al 1994;Shiller and Boyle 1985;Taylor et al 2001;Windom et al 1991), soil (Beavington 1975;Chen et al 1999;Connor and Shacklette 1975;EPA 1980d;Haines 1984;HazDat 2005;Mayer and Manning 1990;Mielke et al 1999Mielke et al , 2000Mumma et al 1984Mumma et al , 1990…”

Leachability of Lead from Selected Copper-Base Alloys

“…These have involved studies of the leaching of lead from brass water faucets, 5,6 from lead solder, 7,8 from lead pipe, 7,9 and from brass fittings. 10,11 In a study 5 of kitchen faucets, however, the concentration of Cu, Zn, Cr, and Cd was not ENGINEERING significant when compared to the maximum permissible limit in drinking water. Lead, especially from lead solder, was the real problem.…”

“…Most studies [5][6][7][8][9][10][11] have reported no enhanced leaching of metals such as Pb, Cu, Zn, Cr, and Cd from water distribution system components. These have involved studies of the leaching of lead from brass water faucets, 5,6 from lead solder, 7,8 from lead pipe, 7,9 and from brass fittings.…”