Converting brew pot into brew kettle?

[Hop_Bob_86]

Hi forum!


So... I've been looking to move into BIAB brewing from kit brewing, without breaking the bank. I will brew in the shed which has power, I currently don't have a brew pan or paraffin burner so I'm looking at alternatives.

I have seen instructions online for converting a plastic bucket into a beer kettle by dismantling cheap kettles and using the elements but I'm concerned that this will be flimsy.
As an alternative I am considering installing kettle elements into a stainless steel or aluminium brew pot - has anyone done this and if so, can I use the same instructions for a plastic bucket or will I need to weld the elements and tap in?

Any advice greatly appreciated

 

[vincentAlpha]

If you are suggesting bringing wort to a boil in a plastic bucket I'd definitely suggest using either SS or Aluminum, can't see too many plastic buckets holding up to that without something bad happening. As for elements, I've not done it myself but I hear lots of success with hot water tank elements, you'd want the low watt density ones if I recall right or you risk issues with burning things on the elements. If you want to avoid drilling holes and the associated work for installing the element you can make yourself a heatstick or two, lots of threads on that around here.

 

[Onkel_Udo]

Though I believe there are couple of instances of converting HDPE barrels to boil kettles there were drawbacks. anything over 190 f should probably be avoided.

Adding water heater elements to SS pots is a common addition but control is more challenging without the ability to control the duty cycle of the element(s). BIAB would make this more important.

What volume are you looking at doing and what type of electricity is available in the shed (volts and amps)? What country are you in as well?

 

[Hop_Bob_86]

Hi guys , thanks for the comments. I've since found a half decent tea urn which comes recommended by other brewers - it has thermostatic controls and will work out roughly the same cost as a DIY effort.