JFlowers1300
Member
Hello, I'm a long time reader, but this is my first post on the site. I'm in the process of building 3 keggles, a HLT, MLT and a BK for a future HERMS system. I've been trying to collect as much info as I can prior to welding as to how I should have the 1/2" couplers welded on? I have gathered from the threads that I've read that backing with argon is preferable, however, the welder I talked to suggested tig welding the couplers from both sides of the keg walls which he said would form a food grade seal? (I already have the tops already cut off and the holes drilled in the kegs.)
I have no experience dealing with welding or welders but some of the work they showed me looked very clean and solid and they do have experience working with stainless.
The only issue I feel that I have is that they seemed to be very busy and wouldn't give me a price to back the kegs with argon after they quoted me $15 per coupler (inside and outside). However the welder did say that argon gas was produced by the torch they would be using to purge the oxygen from the surface they would be welding, is this accurate? Is there any downside to having the couplers welded on this way or should I take a chance finding someone else who will back the keg with argon?
Also I am planning on having the 1/2 couplers welded on so that they are close to flush on the inside of the keg so that the majority of the couplers face the outside of the keg shell, is there any reason that I should place them more 50/50 inside and out?
Thanks in advance for any advice, it's most appreciated!
I have no experience dealing with welding or welders but some of the work they showed me looked very clean and solid and they do have experience working with stainless.
The only issue I feel that I have is that they seemed to be very busy and wouldn't give me a price to back the kegs with argon after they quoted me $15 per coupler (inside and outside). However the welder did say that argon gas was produced by the torch they would be using to purge the oxygen from the surface they would be welding, is this accurate? Is there any downside to having the couplers welded on this way or should I take a chance finding someone else who will back the keg with argon?
Also I am planning on having the 1/2 couplers welded on so that they are close to flush on the inside of the keg so that the majority of the couplers face the outside of the keg shell, is there any reason that I should place them more 50/50 inside and out?
Thanks in advance for any advice, it's most appreciated!