Was always resistant to cutting a hole in an otherwise very nice pressure canner - but with the price of fuel going up constantly and not likely to come down - had to do it.
We run completely on solar power here, no mains - so doing the runs on electric will save about $1 per bottle of finished product!!
And, i figured since i was cutting one hole, might as well cut 2
So, the decision made, it was time to drill some holes.
Step one, mark location for both holes, make a well, and fill it with Veggie oil Step two - cut said holes (and try not to sprain wrist - failed at that part - ouch) Step three - flatten curvature and fit 2 x 2" bulkhead fittings Step four - test for leakages - none.
The heating element is a 2KW unit controlled by the kit from distillique - displays percentage power, and testing it, draws just under 1900W (as reported by my solar mgmt system) - so steps of 19W - should be fine enough control. The other port is a drain port - will have a ball valve with 2" ferrels so i can attach the drain pipe, open the value, and drain the boiler even when it is very hot. Only have to leave the actual drain valve on during a run. Didn't take a picture of that.
And while i was at it, came up with a way to refill the boiler without having to drill another hole in the lid. Put a 'T' on the boiler lid, with a 90° and a blanking plate. To refill, take off blanking plate, pour wash in, close it and light it up again! So, now i can use the copious solar power to do my runs, i can drain and refill quickly and i will have more control of the power and i will save some money! 12 ferments will recover the money spent to do the conversion.
Just have to wait until my next Corn meal and oats ferment is done! (another week)