Kettle Tube/False bottom; vinyl tube with holes?

Hey all!

So I am replacing my kettle tube for my mash tun. I had been using a braided metal hose, but it is a pain to clean, collapses, and is difficult to see if I got all the grit out of. I am working on replacing it.

I was thinking that instead of using a braided metal hose I use food-grade vinyl tubing. I would punch a bunch of tiny holes all along it, and I would then be able to see if it is clean after use as it is clear.

Any ideas on why this might not be a good idea? If it seems solid, what size holes should I be making? Thanks for any feedback!

vinyl is almost never rated for high temperature, and i would assume that it would loose its food-grade rating if used over the recomended temperature.

i would look for something else to use. i use a loop of thin-walled silicone tube with holes similar to what you describe as a sparge arm sometimes. i dont think it would work below the grains though. you might be able to use a thick-walled silicone tube if you were careful in hole size and placement.

You not just make a copper manifold or cpvc?

cpvc is the way to go.

That was my concern, that at higher temperatures it would start to leach out chemicals.

As for the PVC/Copper manifold, I was wanting something flexible that wouldn't get in the way. I think I am gonig to go down that road anyways. Easy to clean, so there we go!

If I used a braided hose, I'd find a stainless steel spring to slip inside it if it was prone to collapsing. I definitely wouldn't use anything made of vinyl in a boiler...

Cheers!

Thanks for the replies. My SS did collapse, next time I will spring it. Trying a PVC manifold, seeing if it is handy or just gets in the way.

Tall_Yotie said:

Thanks for the replies. My SS did collapse, next time I will spring it. Trying a PVC manifold, seeing if it is handy or just gets in the way.

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Mmmm....PVC in a boiling environment....

Already had all the kids you're planning on having, then?

Cheers!

day_trippr said:

Mmmm....PVC in a boiling environment....

Already had all the kids you're planning on having, then?

Cheers!

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.....

OK, I have heard that PVC is perfectly fine for mash tun manifolds. This is going to have water no warmer than 175F. Not boiling.

Have I heard wrong?

For a mash tun manifold it is best to use CPVC. Just make sure not to glue the joints and it easily dismantles for cleaning. (first post woo hoo!)

Tall_Yotie said:

Have I heard wrong?

Click to expand...

yes