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Table of Contents
This page contains information about selecting and using brew kettles.
Kettle Selection
Metal Type
See the metallurgy page.
Kettle Size
For extract brewing:
- For 5-gallon partial boils, a 3 gallon kettle is tiny, 4 gallons is average, 5 gallons is best
- For 5-gallon full boils, 7.5 gallons is ideal
For Brew In A Bag (BIAB):
- For 5-gallon 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 through a 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 trub from exiting the kettle.
Valves often have a diptube attached that extend lower than the opening in the kettle so drain wort that is lower than the height of the valve.