I am wondering if using all thread as your centre tie rod (yes?) is maybe not the best way to go?
I would think a rod with threads cut into it at each end would be better. In the case of a Braumiser etc you have two plates that need to slide up & down the centre rod and all that thread on them is going to be like a rasp or round file every time they go up and down. Furthermore, all that thread is a great place for greeblies to hide/grain to get stuck in and would lengthen and complicate the cleaning process. Personally I would be trying to minimise the amount of thread that comes into contact with grain or wort.
Apologies Nath if you are not using the all thread in a way in which it is exposed to grain or wort in your brewery.
Cheers Malted, youve obviously had a squizz at my single vessel build. But what im trying to do is instead of using a colander over my elements, i thought i would make up some 'legs' for the crab cooker insert which has holes drilled in the bottom. This would elevate the mash over the elements and allow an adjustable height for the mash to sit in the strike water for a single vs double batch. Ive worked out that whilst the colander i have keeps the mash at a good height for a double batch, it sits too high for a single.
the legs wont come into contact with grain, but they will be in the wort outside the bag and basket during the mash only.
The other benefit of doing this will be a better flow of heat throughout the vessel. At the moment, im convinced the colander is trapping a fair bit of heat and then im draining this and returning to the lid hotter than id like.
Thought id just cut the rod into four shorter and four longer pieces for legs. Usually brew doubles, but every now and then need the versatility to do singles of unknown recipes.
Is using zinc a bad idea? I can easily source the perfect sized bolts and nuts if its ok to use.