Brass, Bronze, or Stainless?

[lwcm]

Hi all,

My apologies if this has been covered before but my search-fu is weak tonight. I'm planning a jump to AG and looking at converting a 5 gal cooler to a ball valve and stainless braid. My question is regarding the ball valve assembly. I can find brass kits, bronze kits, and stainless kits in ascending levels of $$$ so I'm curious if brass is suitable or will I inevitably upgrade to the SS anyway? If I'm going to go the stainless route anyway I may as well start there.

Also, anyone know good deals on conversion kits and screens? I don't have the time to DIY anything at the moment but I do have the time to assemble from a kit .

Thanks in advance!
Joe

 

[avidhomebrewer]

I've done the same and used the original setup (brass) for about 8 years now with no ill-effects. I have a SS braid with a brass ball-valve. I still produce quality beer. Sure, SS is the best, but it is also the most expensive.

I'm sure you'll get a different answer for each post.

 

[Golddiggie]

I originally used one piece brass valves in my setups. Then I switched over to the three piece ball valves (like found here, or here)... Do a little searching on the good rated vendors and you might find it a bit cheaper, although I suspect it won't be much less.

IMO, the fact you can take the three piece valves apart so easily is more than worth the cost difference. I make it a point to have a couple of spares on hand at all times (along with other fittings)...

 

[xufeiling]

yeah I'm sure you'll get a different answer for each post

 

[bob352]

I started with brass and eventually went to stainless.
Brass is cheap enough you won't mind making a few mistakes.