I am looking to build a automatic water leveling system for my mash tun. I found a nice stainless steel Solenoid Valve which has a Viton Diaphragm pumps. Is this safe for 170 degree sparge water the valve says it can handle 266 degrees but I am more worried if it will leach chemicals into the water or is it food safe?my experiance with Viton is that it is NOT really good with food grade at all.
it will leach and leave some bitterness in anything it comes in contact with.
you want Silacone, Santoprene, or EPDM.
it may disapate over time but you would have to confirm with manufacture.
as for the Temp I would think 170 would be pushing the max but again I am just
basing off of my experiance.
you can't get water above 212 unless it's under pressure.
you can find links on the web in regards to just what Viton is.

According to Chem resistance charts, Viton is rated a-excellent for Beer & 400dF max temp.

EPDM is also A-Excellent but up to 275dF

If I have a choice, I would chose the Viton.

Viton ™ is a brand name for fluoroelastomers made by DuPont. I work for one of their competitors, so I will refrain from using the V-word in the rest of this reply. In general, fluoroelastomers will withstand any of our brewing conditions, with the exception of long term exposure to strong alkaki (caustic). Some fluoroelastomer compounds are food grade and most are not, mainly because the manufacturer has not done the testing needed to claim compliance with the FDA regulation. The process of making a part out of fluoroelastomer includes a high temperature exposure (400 F for 8 to 24 hours) that burns out all the volatile processing and crosslinking residues, so fluoroelastomers are among the cleanest and simplest rubbers.

I have no hesitation using any fluoroelastomer part in my brewing equipment, regardless of whether or not it is claimed to be food grade. As to why Gumballhead has had taste issues with a fluoroelastomer, I can't say; it does surprise me though. I have not experienced this.

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