Valves In Mach Pump Brew System?

[SJW]

I got the pump today (thanks MHB) Got the SHS cut for the table today also and now I am thinking about Valves.
My question is, does the March pump suffer much when using half inch ball valves on the output side? As the actual bore is way less than half inch. I looked at getting a couple of 1 inch valves where the bore is more like half inch but at $65 each I am wondering if it matters.
Also in an effort to save a little cash what do u think about using half inch gate valves on the inlet side? as there is no need to regulate the inlet, it could be a goer.
Also S/S is very expensive, other than the Bling Bling look and quality why bother especially if I would probably be using some brass elbows & tees elsewhere.
Also what type of flexible pipe do u use & why. I know the clear plastic stuff from Bunnings gets way soft but I have noticed some of u fellas use that reinforced clear pipe.
Any advice would be appreciated.

STEPHEN.

 

[dreamboat]

Stephen,
It is possible to get full bore ball valves which will let you get away with 1/2" sizing. THe reinforced hose is typically a clear PVC with a woven reinforcement.... PVC is not real flash above about 60C, but you can get away with it up to 80C probably. Of particular concern is the suction side of the pump, where there is a possibility of having the tubing collapse under vacuum which will send the entire system pear-shaped. IMHO rigid tube on the suction side is the best way to go... the discharge side can get away with anything that can handle the temperature you will be throwing at it.


Rob

 

[Justin]

Steve, at the flow rates you'll be running at I don't think you would feel choked with normal 1/2" ball valves-have some confidence in that nearly every brewery you see on the net is running 1/2" valves. If there was a problem you'd know about it. These should only run you around $6-7 each for nickel plated brass. If you really want you can get full port ball valves as Dreamboat said.

Honestly though, on the scale we are talking about and the system we are using I don't think you would find a noticable difference. What's an extra 30sec-1min when transfering strike water from HLT-MT, you were happy before with the flow rate of gravity so no need to get all anal about how long things will take with the pump. Everywhere else you'll be running at much less than full flow anyway.

For hose, either get braided PVC so it doesn't collapse on itself or splash out for silicone hose at $12 per meter. FWIW my brewery uses 2 meters of silicone in total. Very nice hose, I'm always harping on about it and well worth the price.

As for is stainless worth it, endless debate on that but ultimately that's up for you to decide. If you have brass elsewhere in the system and are not hell bent on making a 100% stainless brewery your better off saving some money and getting brass valves. Honestly, you wont see any difference IMO. Get the nickel plated brass valves for the stainless bling factor without the stainless price.

Saving $2 by buying a gate valve for the input side seems a bit illogical to me given your wondering if stainless is worth it. You just spent $200+ for a pump, surely it can't hurt that much to spend an extra couple of $$ to make them all ball valves. FWIW you'd kit your whole brewery out with 1/2" nickel plated ball valves for the price of 2 stainless valves. Just get a ball valve, screwing that gate valve open would suck IMO.

Justin

 

[SJW]

Nice thoughts boys.
Thanks Justin, I did not get a price on Nickel Plated, but if they are that cheap I will go ball, all the way.

 

[Justin]

Try a proper hose and fittings place, not just the hardware store (but might also be worth a look-the ones here bend you over the bench and give you a good ... h34r: though-I steer clear whenever possible). Couple of phone calls should sort out the prices pretty quick. I got good prices from Purple Pig.

I don't think there is much if any price difference between brass and nickel plated brass.

 

[SJW]

I just rang Nova Newcastle and they stock FULL BORE half inch Nickel Plated Ball Valves for $14.50 + GST each. Sounds like a deal to me!!!!

 

[Borret]

SJW,

Try Bias boating (just over the railway bridge from MHB toward town). Their catalogue lists them at $8.90. 'Tis where all mine came from (except from tuggerah).

Brent

 

[SJW]

Will do Brent, thanks