If only it were that easy. I wanted to use those round bottom Hobart bowls for my vessels. Its why I was going for a more compact element shape, coils, spirals etc
I have no idea. Never bent one before. I see people bend those wavy elements all the time. Maybe you could get one of those 240v, 5500 watt wavy elements, which will put out 1375 watts at 120v, and bend it to the shape you want/need.
I think I'll have to give up the idea of a specialized element shape. I did find a more conventional shape that should fit far down enough into the kettle.
Guys, so I've been doing more thinking and am debating between two options. I'd appreciate your input to either trash one or both ideas.
Idea #1: @ $45 use this McMaster element http://www.mcmaster.com/#3540k43/=112epf4
it's 1500 watt so it suits my needs, incoloy and has a bend radius of about 15/16 inch. It should be relatively easy to make a hoop like the BoilCoil or a spiral in the hobart kettles.
Idea #2: Use a band heater clamped to the outside of the kettle toward the bottom, just before it curves. Something like this from BrewHaus http://www.brewhaus.com/1500W-Band-Heater-for-Premium-Kettle-Moonshine-Still.aspx This particular one has too large a diameter, I need a band heater suitable for 12.5 inch diameter. I've found a company called OEM Heaters that has an online customizer that spits out an estimated quote, it'd cost me about $75 for a 120V 1500W band heater with a 12.5 inch diameter.
So, I ask for your highly regarded advice; #1: more conventional immersion element in the kettle bent to shape at home -OR- #2: a sized band heater clamped to the exterior of the kettle so that there is less clutter in the kettle.