The Mash Tun
The mash tun is constructed from the same type of 50l keg as the brew kettle. In addition to a tap, it has a thermometer fitted and sports a stainless steel false bottom. It is also insulated to help maintain a constant mash temperature. I used a cheap camping mattress for the insulation material
Here is the outside of the finished mash tun:
Check out the high-tech insulated lid:
My LHBS owner advised me to go for a stainless steel false bottom. It wasn't a big expense and it means I won't have to worry about upgrading. No mucking about with braid or manifolds either.
Here is the false bottom, complete with drinking water hose and brass hose fittings:
To stop the false bottom floating in the mash, I drilled and anchored it with a 3/16" bolt and wing nut. The bolt was sealed at the bottom of the keg using silicone washers.
I misjudged the tap position and made it a bit too high. When I tried to join the false bottom to the tap with drinking water hose, the levels were such that the hose kinked. This is the reason for the looped hose. I will hopefully replace this setup with some purpose bent copper tube in the future.
Here is the finished product:
