Aluminum Kettle

I just purchased a 60qt aluminum stock pot that i want to make into a brew kettle. I'm going to use a weldless ball valve, but I also want to include a sight window I have seen some sight windows that are integrated into the ball valve fitting, I'm just wondering if that is a good setup, or if I am better using a totally separate fitting?

It will work. The downside is as you drain it will draw down on the site glass and effect the reading.

BargainFittings said:

It will work. The downside is as you drain it will draw down on the site glass and effect the reading.

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+1 The reading with only be accurate when the valve is closed.

Are there any extra concerns one should be aware of when drilling Aluminum?

No, I have a 60qt aluminum stock pot for a boil kettle. I drilled a hole for a weldless fitting and had no problem.

BrewHog09 said:

Are there any extra concerns one should be aware of when drilling Aluminum?

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Yes... you will need to clean the inside of burrs very very well...

You can use a step-bit and hand sand the inside or use a punch.

The punch is a but more expensive but it makes much better holes for 1/2" and up. You will need either a 3/8" or a 1/2" hole depending on your sight glass.

A word of advise - make the hole as small as possible. You want to almost have to force the item through the hole. I make them just large enough that I have to screw the pipe in.