Newest Threads

Musketear · 05-21-2011, 10:56 PM

I am just about to start construction a 3-tier sanke keg brew tower, but I am having trouble finding something that will provide effect, but neat insulation for the MLT and HLT. What are people using successfully?

djsethall · 05-21-2011, 11:04 PM

I've heard of people using reflectix. Basically bubble wrap made from mylar. Any big box store carries it.

Catt22 · 05-22-2011, 10:36 PM

I just made a insulated jacket for my direct fired mash tun out of a high heat resistant carbon fiber welder's blanket. I will probably give it a test drive this week sometime. I will take some pics. It's visually neat and nice looking, sort of like a black heavy wool felt about 1/2" thick. The material was not cheap, but I have enough to make at least one more which puts the cost at about $50 each jacket. I'm hoping to be able to increase the temp ramp up rate a bit. My RIMS does very well as is, but always looking for ways to tweak the system. I'll post back with a thumbs up or possibly down. We shall see.

Musketear · 05-23-2011, 02:24 PM

Hmm, interesting idea on the welders blanket. Being carbon fiber, however, that is quite pricey. Maybe Ill stick with the reflectix, and if it proves inadequite, I will try the elders blanket... or maybe I can find a welders blanket made of a less costly material.

**Bobby_M** · 05-23-2011, 02:34 PM

You have to mention if you plan to direct fire it or not as it makes a HUGE difference in what materials would be recommended.

Musketear · 05-23-2011, 03:37 PM

I don't really know yet. I think right now, I will probably just insulate it and use a heatstick if I need minor adjustments...

**Bobby_M** · 05-23-2011, 04:10 PM

Mcmaster part 9334K25 looks promising. Or two feet of 9385K23.

Two wraps with reflectix from Lowes would be fine also.

**bucfanmike** · 05-23-2011, 04:29 PM

no idea on quality but harbo freight has a welders blanket for about 40

Catt22 · 05-23-2011, 07:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bucfanmike

no idea on quality but harbo freight has a welders blanket for about 40

I took a look at those. The material is described as heat resistant fiberglass. I can't find anything about the thickness or weight of the material. It is much cheaper than the carbon fiber and might be an economical substitute. I'm gonna check it out next time I visit HF.

**RiverCityBrewer** · 05-23-2011, 10:27 PM

I just looked at one while I was at HF... they are not much thicker than a canvass tarp so it might take several wraps of one to provide any insulating value. Still interested to see how your carbon fiber jacket works out, Catt.