Putting together a pressurized CO2 system

grch36

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Mar 7, 2006
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Well, again let me apologize if this has been posted before but I couldn't find it. I have admitted a few times that I am a newb but I would like to know how all the parts fit together (as far as their job) and how exactly do you begin to introduce CO2? I guess what I'm asking is a step by step instruction so that I avoid mistakes. Thanks for your patience and help.
 
My DIY pressurized CO2

I have a cornelius regulator. You can find them on the web (ebay and other sites) or at you local brew supply store. They are probably the best regulators.

Beverage Factory Regulators are not bad either

Once you get your regulator, you will remove the hose barb that is screwed on the regulator, the thread is most likely a 1/4"NPT. You will then get a 1/4" to 1/8" NPT adapter (Home Depot has them). Use Teflon tape and screw the adapter to the regulator

Once you get the adapter, get a Clippard Needle Valve. You can order these from their website, but they do tag a hefty handling charge. Enter your zip code on this link to check for a local distributor. If you have one close by then you wont pay shipping and handling.

No need to use teflon tape when installing needle vavle to your 1/8" NPT adapter.

Now all you need is some tubing and a Check Valve, check valve is not needed but highly recommended. Once again, Clippard has got the valves, I cant remember the part number now, I think it is MC-1-V, I can look into it and let you know. For tubing, once again try the polyurethane tubing from clippard or silicone (although silicone permeability is high).

Attach the tubing from the needle valve to your desired CO2 diffuser/reactor and voila. I personally use a cannister filter and use an in-line Rex Reactor.

Try Rex's website, he has great info and also has many of the clippard parts available for sale. He also sells the Polyurethane tubing really cheap.

Hope that helps
 
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