nrjones89
Well-Known Member
Documenting my build for a tutorial. Will edit this as I go along. This is a 4500w 240v PID-controlled eKeggle build using welded fittings. Please feel free to add suggestions in your posts.
Parts list (incomplete)
The plan:
Keg to eKeggle conversion
-Use angle grinder to remove top of keg.
-Use step bit to drill holes for 1/2" NPT couplings. Bulkhead port will be as low as possible with the thermometer port will be around the 3 gallon mark.
-Dimple holes for said couplings.
-Use step bit to drill hole for 1" NPS locknut for heater element. Heater port will be about 4" from the bottom of the keg rim (YMMV; depends on the bulge/recess in the keg and whether you have a ripple style element).
-Use torch and silver solder to sweat couplings and locknut in. Create 2x wrap rings for couplings and make a 2x hex ring for the locknut. Solder the NPT couplings from the inside, solder NPS locknut from the outside.
-Install bulkhead kit in port with plumbing tape. (full coupling used for this in case you want to install fittings on the inside)
-Install K probe with 1/2" to 1/4" bushing in thermometer port with plumbing tape. (half coupling used for this; make sure it is properly seated for the threads)
-Install element with o-ring in heater port with plumbing tape.
PID control panel build
(under construction)
Spa panel build
(under construction)
Parts list (incomplete)
- $50 Anheuser Busch keg
- $30~ fittings from bargainfittings.com (1/2" NPT couplings, 1x half, 1x hole, 1/2" to 1/4" bushing for thermocouple, 1" NPS locknut w/ o-ring, bulkhead kit)
- $15 4500w ULWD ripple style heater element
- $32 Inkbird PID kit (PID, SSR, K thermocouple, heat sink)
- $25 Carlon enclosure for PID
- $20 5-piece step bit kit
- $15 butane torch
- $10 silver solder/flux
- $4.87 Dimpling tool https://www.homebrewtalk.com/forum/threads/4-87-keg-tool.402677/
- $1 plumber's tape
- FREE angle grinder (friend lending)
The plan:
Keg to eKeggle conversion
-Use angle grinder to remove top of keg.
-Use step bit to drill holes for 1/2" NPT couplings. Bulkhead port will be as low as possible with the thermometer port will be around the 3 gallon mark.
-Dimple holes for said couplings.
-Use step bit to drill hole for 1" NPS locknut for heater element. Heater port will be about 4" from the bottom of the keg rim (YMMV; depends on the bulge/recess in the keg and whether you have a ripple style element).
-Use torch and silver solder to sweat couplings and locknut in. Create 2x wrap rings for couplings and make a 2x hex ring for the locknut. Solder the NPT couplings from the inside, solder NPS locknut from the outside.
-Install bulkhead kit in port with plumbing tape. (full coupling used for this in case you want to install fittings on the inside)
-Install K probe with 1/2" to 1/4" bushing in thermometer port with plumbing tape. (half coupling used for this; make sure it is properly seated for the threads)
-Install element with o-ring in heater port with plumbing tape.
PID control panel build
(under construction)
Spa panel build
(under construction)
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