Hey Guys (and Gals),
My brew partner and I decided to build a double pipe heat exchanger for our setup. Just like plans from BYO (https://byo.com/stories/item/2849-double-pipe-wort-chiller-projects).
Here's the issue- we couldn't get our hands on any compression fittings so we figured some high temp silicone sealant and/or fire caulk should do the trick. Wrong. The thing leaks like crazy and for that reason it's been gathering dust in the corner for a couple of months.
As the pictures show, we drilled through the end caps of the PVC and slid the copper tube in. It's a very tight fit but even with the silicone (and then fire caulk) water is finding its way through.
I realize I'm a dummy for this one but I'm hoping the collective genius of the DIYer's on this site can help point me in the right direction. I still cannot find Parker compression fittings at a price that make sense for this build but if anyone knows of some I'll gladly take the sawzall to the end caps.
I appreciate any help in advance!
My brew partner and I decided to build a double pipe heat exchanger for our setup. Just like plans from BYO (https://byo.com/stories/item/2849-double-pipe-wort-chiller-projects).
Here's the issue- we couldn't get our hands on any compression fittings so we figured some high temp silicone sealant and/or fire caulk should do the trick. Wrong. The thing leaks like crazy and for that reason it's been gathering dust in the corner for a couple of months.
As the pictures show, we drilled through the end caps of the PVC and slid the copper tube in. It's a very tight fit but even with the silicone (and then fire caulk) water is finding its way through.
I realize I'm a dummy for this one but I'm hoping the collective genius of the DIYer's on this site can help point me in the right direction. I still cannot find Parker compression fittings at a price that make sense for this build but if anyone knows of some I'll gladly take the sawzall to the end caps.
I appreciate any help in advance!
