I have found instructions on how to convert kegs, using reciprocating saws, grinder, and plasma cutters. But in my experience, kegs which are ground or sawed generally produce uneven or oval openings. Plasma cutters on the other hand produce outstanding openings; unfortunately I don't have many friends who have them at their disposal. So I came up with a different way of cutting the opening. In essence, I have created a hand turned lathe for a keg. It cost me around 30 dollars, but depending on your own personal inventory of tools, the cost may be higher or lower. The project took about 3 hours which included the construction, cutting out the opening and smooth out the edges.
It is not for beer drinkers (necessarily), but beer makers. I've got three kegs converted like this one in my home brewery. They make excellent boil kettles and mash tuns.
You can pay professionals to convert the kegs for you, but that ends up costing a fair bit.
Thanks. So Kegs are made out of what..T606, stainless? I'm just curious now. I wonder if I could use this to make kambucha. I can't seem to find something large enough to start that in.
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As a non beer drinker, elucidate why you want a keg lathe?
I don't get it.
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It is not for beer drinkers (necessarily), but beer makers. I've got three kegs converted like this one in my home brewery. They make excellent boil kettles and mash tuns.
You can pay professionals to convert the kegs for you, but that ends up costing a fair bit.
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Thanks Alva, I didn't get it either :)
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Anyone have a suggestion for a legal way to get a used keg?
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Anyone have a suggestion for a legal way to get a used keg?
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You can buy old ones from beer distributers, especially ones with leaky valves.
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You can buy old ones from beer distributors, especially ones with leaky valves.
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Thanks. So Kegs are made out of what..T606, stainless? I'm just curious now. I wonder if I could use this to make kambucha. I can't seem to find something large enough to start that in.
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Kegs are made from 304 or 316 stainless steal. It is food grade metal. Could you please tell me what kambucha is.
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Sorry fredan. That's KOMBUCHA, not my incorrectly spelled Kambucha. Links to the MAKE article on it. And it's really, really, really good.
http://www.craftzine.com/blog/archive/2007/08/craft_02_kombucha_tea.html
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Looks like an interesting drink. Thanks for the info
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The guys at Sabco will gladly sell you a used keg: http://www.brew-magic.com/ketl_blowout.html
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