I think it's there to impede a hand-stirred whirlpool. Jeez, what a constant thorn in my side! Almost every stir - whack! When you're juggling an immersion chiller and a hop spider, plus the thermometer probe, it gets to be a hairy proposition. But, as mentioned, it is really nice to keep a tight handle on things. Do I have time to run down to the basement and grab.... How many degrees will it drop if I stir 37 times (my age)? You know, hours of fun watching that needle creep down to 65.