Keg MLT + Insulation = Real/Noticible dif?

[crypt0]

My keg MLT is absolutely brutal when it comes to maintaining a mash temp. In another form I noted that I lost 9 degrees on a 60 minute mash (mind you that was a very thick mash and a small batch).

At this point I'm thinking of converting a cooler I have and using that as a MLT instead, but I was wondering if people have had any real success insulating their kegs (with reflectex or otherwise).

Does it make a real difference that you notice? For a 5 gallon batch, what kind of heat loss can you expect over a 60 minute mash?

 

[ndoe22]

Pre heating with some boiling water in the keg really helps fight off heat loss.

 

[GC89]

I have the same issue, and mine is insulated, not with reflectix but with some 3 in r-15 insulation covered in plastic. I still loose a solid 4-6 degrees over an hour if I dont add water or do a steam infusion. My next project is something to sit on the mash and insulate it from the top. I think the dead space with a 5 gallon batch is what does it.

Id appreciate any input as well