A few keg conversion questions

[foomench]

Thanks for all the replies thus far. You've convinced me to try the angle grinder thing. I still may have to try one with a plasma cutter to compare.

Why not just have the shop cut them? 1) Lower cost. 2) I remembered that I know somebody that might do the welding for me for free/beer, so I might avoid the shop altogether.

So couplers and compression fittings? I should be able to manage that. Looking at the photos I've seen I thought there might be a special part. Even if there is, the coupler would give greater flexibility.

And I'll just drill a pilot for the stepper.

Picked up 6 kegs today! My first grind and plasma cut will be on the worst looking ones.

[Lars]

When using the step bit, be sure to use some cutting oil, go slow with lots of pressure. Do not try to go high speed, you'll just harden the stainless and make it nearly impossible to drill.

[11amas]

+1 for Angle Grinder

Why, it shoots sparks and scares your neighbors!

You can get a 4" angle grinder at Harbor Freight for about $20, after you cut the top off you can switch from cutting to grinding and have your opening smooth in a flash. Did I mention it is fun?

[foomench]

I know about the angle grinder thing


I thought shooting plasma would be fun too.

[Sam Scott]

I used a Dremel with a cut-off wheel. Took about 15 minutes and 5 or 6 of the wheels (thread on aleiens forum).

Finished it off with a palm sander (220 grit). You won't cut your finger on that...

[JohnO]

I used an angle grinder rested against the inside edge of the keg. Worked great! 1 grinder wheel for two kegs. No jig required...Once the hole is cut you can use the grinder to smooth out the edges...BADA BING