Beer Forum

I have a sanke keg for my HLT and a stainless steel pot for my boil pot.

I was looking at Northern Brewer at the Ball Valves used for kettles. They have a weldless bronze and a stainless steel ball valve fitting. http://www.northernbrewer.com/weldless.html

Does it matter if I use bronze vs stainless steel? What would be the best fitting to buy for the HLT and boil pot?

Thanks
TCC

While I am not an expert or play one on tv.. I use Bronze valves with exception of the one on my mash tun. That one is stainless. I would like to change out all my valves for stainless, but don't want to deal with that expense at this time. I think the HLT will be fine with bronze because it handles just water. Actually the brew pot will most likely be fine too with a bronze valve.

Check out the brew strong metals show. Covers alot and may help you with your decision.

Seems to be more of a personal preference than anything. Sure the stainless should stand the test of time compared to the brass but I don't see either wearing out any time soon. I'm currently using brass on everything but fully intend to upgrade to the 3 piece stainless valve for my kettle soon with the main reason being the ability to break it down and clean it easier.

And do listen to the metals show, a lot of info in there!

I got SS valves off of eBay on the cheap and couldn't be happier.

http://cgi.ebay.com/1-1-2-316-Stainless ... 3:1|294:50

The whole bronze lead thing freaked me out to much. And I know it's probably not an issue but, I feel better with SS.

Thanks for the input everyone. I think I will go with the stainless steel. I read a little about the bronze lead thing and a few extra bucks for peace of mind is worth it.

Holy shit badrock, you use 1 1/2" ball valves?!?

bille wrote:Holy shit badrock, you use 1 1/2" ball valves?!?

Nope, I just posted that link this morning before my brain got it's normal dose of coffee. Should have been 1/2" That would be sweet though.