DIY sight glass?

[bruno69]

Has anybody created their own elegant, functional sight glass? I'm having a stainless female half-inch port welded to my 26-gallon kettle, into which I'll screw a stainless T for thermometer and sight glass. My question: how to connect the glass/plastic tube to the up-facing port on the T? Glue? Silicone? Pre-made fitting? Ideas?

Thanks, Bruno

 

[JeepGuy]

I used a compression fitting for mine.

 

[Howhownow]

http://www.bargainfittings.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=45&product_id=194
See link for inspiration on exactly what you are attempting. Or, better yet, go buy one for that price! I have that exact kit, and it works great.

 

[Ravenshead]

If you can get some 1/2" OD X 1/4" ID polycarbonate tubing (about 18" for a keggle), you can use a 1/4" MPT die to cut threads in it and screw it into any 1/4" female pipe fitting. Use a SS 1/2" to 1/4" bushing as an adapter for your 1/2" Tee.

I buy my polycarbonate tubing from McMaster-Carr in eight foot lengths and sell the extra to members of my homebrew club. If you can't do that, it's probably cheaper to order one pre-made. I suggest BrewHardware's version but Bargain Fittings offering is fine too. They are both great businesses and HBT members as well.


http://www.brewhardware.com/measurement-devices/sightglass-61/52-sight-with-bushing