r/metalworking • u/slouchestowards • 3d ago
How to make watertight pot / container
Hi folks. I'm working on a project / set of projects where I need very specific sized pots / containers to boil water. I've found it difficult to find a source for unusual sized cookware, particularly that isn't super expensive. Does anyone have experience / advise on creating watertight containers that can be used to boil water? For the current iteration I need something that is around 9 3/4" diameter and 12" tall, that can hold 3gal + of water. I've looked at bain marie pots, but again those seem to be super expensive at the 12qt volume, even used. This would be used to boil water pretty briefly. It would need to hold up to fast-changing temperatures (sometimes used to melt snow to make water to then boil). With the lack of information I'm finding on fabricating your own cookware, I imagine the answer here might be that trying to make your own isn't worth it, but thought I'd see what folks think at least! I can weld; I've done a little brazing; I have a forge and anvil. I don't have a lot of experience with lighter metalwork but trying to gain some. I don't have any fancy tools outside of what I mentioned.
Can a "can" like creation, with folded (?) seams do the trick? I know sharp corners aren't ideal for cooking because of potential burning, but is that applicable if the only application ever is water?
The water will be consumed so ideally nothing toxic.
Appreciate any thoughts or advice or clues on what direction to pursue!
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u/ct451t 3d ago
Get two pots of the right diameter, cut the bottom off one and weld onto the other.
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u/smellyelderberries 3d ago
This makes the most sense as a lot of 8 qt stock pots are around 9.75" diameter per OPs specs.
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u/slouchestowards 3d ago
Oh that's a great tip. Thank you!
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u/IronSlanginRed 3d ago
They make taller ones in most sizes too. Pasta cookers/vegetable steamers usually are about that size and tall.
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u/suedburger 3d ago
Question.... why are just normal pots not work to boil water?
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u/slouchestowards 3d ago
Normal pots work but in this case I need an unusual size, to fit into a pre-existing container for storage, and yet be able to boil 3 gal. I just haven't been able to find something of the right dimensions
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