I'm designing a RIMS system and at least to start I want to use my cooler mashtun. I've got a manifold I made from copper tubing with hacksawed slots. Would this work better or should I go to a SS braid?
How big is you MLT?
If you use the braid you can insert a copper tube w/ holes drilled in it so that the braid won't collapse if you're doing a big beer.
If you go w/ the manifold (which I use) add some cooper or even machine screws on the bottom of the corners so you don't create a vacuum & get a stuck sparge.
Just my $.02.
I would stick to the manifold, I used a SS braid once and smashed it mashing in and switched to manifold. Loved my manifold. Now use keg with false bottom.