I've tried pricing a cheap 5 gal cooler build from HomeDepot/Lowes, but cannot find any of the stainless fittings I see used.
Someone I know that built one said the problem with brass fittings is zinc. He said he found "zinc free" brass fittings and used it with his. Is this OK to do?
I've wondered about PVC fittings. On one hand I don't know they are food grade, but then they are typically used for water. But can they stand the boiling water I use to preheat with or even up to 160* for a long mash? I doubt in the plumbing world they'd see temps above 150*...
I asked him to bring his mash tun cooler for my brew day to see if my new BIAB bag could somehow be used. His was the press down fit type lid (not screw on), and it does seem as though it could be used for some time before it wears the bag down.
I've thought of trying some cheap spigot with a barb end for a hose for now. Maybe later down the road I'll concern myself with a more proper build... Anyone done his?
What materials are OK and what are not? I certainly wouldn't want the black pipe used for gas piping or the galvanized parts. But what of brass or PVC or any others?
Someone I know that built one said the problem with brass fittings is zinc. He said he found "zinc free" brass fittings and used it with his. Is this OK to do?
I've wondered about PVC fittings. On one hand I don't know they are food grade, but then they are typically used for water. But can they stand the boiling water I use to preheat with or even up to 160* for a long mash? I doubt in the plumbing world they'd see temps above 150*...
I asked him to bring his mash tun cooler for my brew day to see if my new BIAB bag could somehow be used. His was the press down fit type lid (not screw on), and it does seem as though it could be used for some time before it wears the bag down.
I've thought of trying some cheap spigot with a barb end for a hose for now. Maybe later down the road I'll concern myself with a more proper build... Anyone done his?
What materials are OK and what are not? I certainly wouldn't want the black pipe used for gas piping or the galvanized parts. But what of brass or PVC or any others?