Plate Chiller

How do you use a plate chiller? I understand the concept of connecting a water hose, but my question is about the wort side. Can it be gravity fed? I am using a very basic set up and I figured the plastic rack and cane would not hold up to the temp of the wort. My brew kettle does not have a spigot. So, how can I gravity feed a plate wort chiller?

Any suggestions would be welcome.

 

Spend the money and put a valve on your kettle and gravity feed the plate chiller

 

I am thinking that is going to be the way to go, but it's my buddies brew kettle and I am afraid he isn't ready to do that. I was hoping for an alternative.

 

Could you siphon from a length of 1/2" silicone tubing? I'd prime the siphon with a turkey baster or something to avoid serious burns and contamination.

 

I'd recommend against a plate chiller in this case. I think you'd be better off using a counterflow chiller. Unless of course you already have the chiller. In that case you can use them on a gravity fed system but I've heard they are difficult when used that way.