The Stout Kettle's option is too long and would hit my element the Brewer's Hardware option is 1' in diameter so it won't fit into my 1' TC ferrule. My kettle is electric and unfortunately my welder didn't listen to a word I said and instead of placing the electric element 90 degrees off from my ball valve he placed it right next to my ball valve so I need a really short pickup tube like the Brewers Hardware option. These are LITERALLY the only two options I've been able to find for a dip tube. Here's the pre-made dip tube solutions that I've come across so far for those of us who have TC fittings already: Without a dip tube separation of hops and trub is also a problem.ĭespite these disadvantages TC fittings do generally mean it's easier to clean and you have less long-term maintenance issues (no replacing teflon tape on threads that gets gnarly no need to tear down the weldless fittings and get the crud out in between the fitting and the inside wall, etc.).īUT, of course such discussions are irrelevant to people who already own kettles with TC fittings and who are just looking for solutions for what they already own. I saw so many opportunities there I had to pull the trigger but now I'm dealing with the consequences: extremely limited dip tube and whirlpool options. It has an air-tight seal so adding a large TC fitting to the lid means that the vessel can be used for brewing OR distilling by adding a distillation column to the TC fitting in the lid. However, I had the opportunity to buy a SUPER high quality 15 gallon kettle that came with a very heavy duty stainless FB, 2 TC ferrules welded in, a TC thermowell and thermometer, and a TC ball valve for a song and without shipping or taxes so I really couldn't say no. Removing hoses with Quick Disconnects is also FAR easier than removing TCs.

There are simply so many more options for weldless fittings and those options are much cheaper, too. ESPECIALLY after having used my TC kettle for a few months now.

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