Igloo Mash Tun Thermometer Question

[DougBrew]

Ok, so this probably doesn't deserve it's own thread, but I don't know where else to ask it. I want to drill a hole in my 60qt Igloo MT for a 6" thermometer but I don't want to have any leaks (derp!). So I was wondering if there was a technique that people use to prevent this... like a food grade sealant or something? Help! Thanks!

 

[Bjornbrewer]

check out these weldless fittings. NORTHERN BREWER: Weldless Fittings

They have one for a thick cooler. However, it's not suggested mounting a thermometer on the MLT. You want to be able to take the temp at different points to make sure you have even heat distribution.

 

[The Pol]

Do this... It wont cost you as much, and will seal perfectly the first time. Bulkheads can be sorta finiky... and expensive. I use it on my MLT... as long as you mix well, it is fine. Otherwise you are keeping your lid open (heat escaping) and taking multiple readings. Mix every 10-15 mins, close the lid, watch the temp... relax.

https://www.homebrewtalk.com/f51/10-thru-wall-therms-pics-too-24946/

 

[DougBrew]

The Pol, did you use a hole saw to cut the opening for the thermometer? If so what size did you use, and is that a rubber bung used to stop it up?

 

[DougBrew]

Nevermind, the link you posted answered my questions. Hahaha

 

[ScottD13]

I just punched through the wall with a screw driver just smaller then the diameter of my Brewmometer's probe. I then adjusted the size of the opening and it now seals itself.

See my overly simplified tutorial here.

 

[Brutus Brewer]

Do this... It wont cost you as much, and will seal perfectly the first time. Bulkheads can be sorta finiky... and expensive. I use it on my MLT... as long as you mix well, it is fine. Otherwise you are keeping your lid open (heat escaping) and taking multiple readings. Mix every 10-15 mins, close the lid, watch the temp... relax.

https://www.homebrewtalk.com/f51/10-thru-wall-therms-pics-too-24946/

Is there any kind of seal around the thermometer probe, or do you just stick it in the drilled stopper?

 

[flyangler18]

I was sick of inaccurate digital thermometers, so I bought a type-K thermocouple and indicator. Drilled a small hole in the lid of my MLT and dropped the thermocouple down into the mash.

There's plenty on eBay, as a matter of fact.

 

[The Pol]

Okay yall, need to read the directions.

It is a SOLID 5.5 stopper, drilled with a tiny drill bit just to puch a hole in it. The thermometer slides in easy with some keg lube. No silicone... I refuse to use silicone to seal anything.

Just a stopper, thermo... that is all.