From one newbie to another: It is always ok to ask any question, at any time, to anyone, about anything (within reason of course). I've spent hours upon hours in different distilleries, conferences, bars, workshops, talking with sales guys, engineers, laborers, and people who know stainless and copper outside the spirits industry about all different aspects of the science and art involved. Just remember, these people spend their entire day, career, or life studying one aspect of a component that goes into your operation. Ask questions, but also trust them. Find someone who is impassioned about what they do, and catch their attention. Ask companies about their competition, why buy from one or another? Use their critique of other products to help you ask questions. It's ok to be critical about products and supplies. Hope this helps a little bit.