Move over Mk2
In Mk2 version, the float was signficantly simplified however setting it up was difficult and I started to move away from the idea of using Oetiker clamps inside the keg (is it safe?)
MK3 would have to be the simplest design yet!
Mk3 Simple Float
Mk3 works as follows
- The same float from Mk1 & Mk2
- The same replacement gas diptube OR cut down your existing liquid diptube. However now you need another piece for the end of hose
- The same length of silicone tubing as Mk1 & Mk2 60cm
- A length of 316L TIG 1.6mm wire is bent to capture the flared end of the diptube and is anchored freely onto the float!
Now the float has an indentation/dimple in the side that is HEAVIER is pretty much irrelevant! You dont needs washers clamps etc. Just some hose, a float and some wire!
Parts Required
Stainless Steel Float https://alii.pub/6j2oin
Food grade Silicone hose (use 7×10) https://alii.pub/6j2o4u
The list above will probably contain more parts than you need to make one float. ..
UPDATE: I published this a long time ago. If you want a turnkey solution you can use this. Its a stainless steel ball with the hose and diptube as a kit.
Results
A thing of beauty!
Right down to the very end!
Feedback
I would appreciate some feedback on this new design if you decide to build mk3…
I must say testing it was a pleasure…no more spurts and carry ons…straight clean pour to the end!
Where can I buy one?
Build one!
I got 3 of them here:
https://www.ballandkeg.com/balls-up-floating-dip-tube.php
I’m not sure I could build one this inexpensively.
https://www.kegland.com.au/fermzilla-55l-ss-float-80cm-silicone-dip-tube.html
Neat, any thoughts on using something other than welding wire? I don’t have that laying around and I’m not sure what to buy. Amazon searches have not been turning up great options for 316L TIG 1.6mm wire.
You could try going to a metal fabrication shop and buy a length or two of tig filler rod…even MIG welding wire will do as long as its ER316…
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/4000082466643.html
Instead of welding wire you could try monofilament fishing line or GoreTex dental floss.
Sure as long as ethanol and low ph beers wont affect it?
Thanks for taking the time to figure this one out. I found all the parts on Ebay with no problem, bought supplies to make 3, all for $40 with shipping and will have left over wire and hose after.
Expecting the parts soon, I will update after assembly and a couple uses. Thanks again.
Would galvanized steel wire work?
I wouldnt recommend it. However despite that, it may work for a while. Since hot dip galvanizing is a coating, your first issue is abrasion against the float. Second, zinc in the coating is sacrificial and over time you may find it corrodes…