thanks, imeo. i thought that the threads were part of the circuit, and that anodized aluminum was non-conductive, in addition to being especially brittle for threaded parts. stainless steel would solve that, and the tanks could be a polycarbonate (lexan) or even a hard rigid clear pvc piping, which might hold up better to certain juices, various environmental factors, potential stress points, and maybe even a drop or two. just a thought, but looking forward to all the new stuff you've got coming!