first time building sparge water tank...

[Andyoesq]

So I just ordered a Grainfather.
I need a separate sparge water vessel.
I have a extra boiler pot that I was going to use.
My thought was, knock a hole in it towards the bottom, put a valve in, hook up some tubing, and I'm good to go.
Having never built anything like this, want to make sure this is the right valve to use: http://www.northernbrewer.com/shop/brewing/brewing-equipment/pumps-and-plumbing/weldless-valve-kits/bronze-kettle-valve-kit-w-barb

Does this make sense?
Sorry for the super-noob question.

 

[b-boy]

That'll work.

Personally, I'd go stainless steel. You can get one here : www.bargainfittings.com for about the same price. You'll probably want a dip tube as well so you can drain the kettle all the way to the bottom of the pot.

 

[Andyoesq]

is this the one I need, with 2 piece ball valve, barb fitting, and standard inside coupling?

http://www.bargainfittings.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=46&product_id=250

 

[b-boy]

Yes - add one of these and you're golden.

http://www.bargainfittings.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=46&product_id=94

 

[Andyoesq]

thanks!
can i just use a drill bit to drill the hole in the kettle? it is a cheap one. what size bit will i need? 1/2 inch?

 

[b-boy]

You'll need a step bit and some cutting oil. You can get cheap bits at Harbor Freight. Go slow and apply pressure. You don't want to work harden the SS.

There are good instructions on the site.

 

[Andyoesq]

thanks b-boy!

 

[JayDog]

I just drilled 2 holes in my pot. I was a bit nervous, but it was super easy. Most important is to work slow and apply lots of pressure. And use some dishwashing soap on the bit, it will act as a cutting oil.

 

[dmcman73]

As B-Boy suggested, use a step bit and go slow. If you go to fast and heat up the Stainless steel which will harden in, it will make it harder to drill through and damage the bit.

One tip, mark where you want the hole and using a center punch, make a dimple in the stainless so that the step bit doesn't "walk" as you drill especially when you have cutting oil on it.