====== Brew Kettles ======

This page contains information about selecting and using brew kettles.

===== Kettle Selection =====
==== Metal Type ====
There are various advantages for choosing one metal over another.  The most common metals for kettles are stainless steel and aluminum. 

For metal comparison, see the [[equipment:metallurgy|metallurgy]] page.

==== Kettle Size ====
For [[techniques:extract_brewing|extract brewing]]:
  * For 5-gallon [[techniques:partial_boil|partial boils]], a 3 gallon kettle is tiny, 4 gallons is average, 5 gallons is best
  * For 5-gallon [[techniques:full_boil|full boils]], 7.5 gallons is ideal

For [[techniques:brew_in_a_bag|Brew In A Bag (BIAB)]]:
  * For 5-gallon [[techniques:BIAB]], 15 gallon kettle is highly recommended

===== Kettle Accessories =====
==== Valves ====
Available in weldless or welded versions, valves are often attached near the bottom of the kettle to allow easy transfer of wort after the boil.  A hole is drilled in the kettle and a ball valve is attached.  Welded valves are more durable and less prone to leaking, but weldless valves must be used on non-weldable metals such as aluminum.

After boiling, tubing can be connected to the valve and run to a [[equipment:wort_chiller|wort chiller]] or directly to a fermenter.  This is often easier than starting a siphon, and the valve can additionally have a filter to prevent [[boil:trub]] from exiting the kettle.  

Valves often have a [[equipment:diptube]] attached that extend lower than the opening in the kettle so drain wort that is lower than the height of the valve.  The diptube can be a solid piece of pipe, or a mesh braid to filter solids.  Mesh braids can be easily clogged by the fine particulate cause by [[ingredients:pellet_hops|pellet hops]], but are effective at filtering the sediment from [[ingredients:whole_leaf_hops|whole leaf hops]].

The alternative to using a valve drain is simply siphoning from the top of the kettle, often assisted by a [[equipment:racking_cane|racking cane]].

==== Thermometer ====


==== Sight Glass ====