Where might one buy or build a HERMS?
 

I am an extract brewer at present. I've had the chance to see a few HERMS and RIM all-grain systems at work, and want to get a HERMS 10 gallon system by spring. Fortunately or unfortunately, many of the folks in my local brew club are engineers, and look at my funny when I explain that, no, I do not have the skills to design and build my own. I am handy with tools, but have zero knowledge of electrical engineering, circuits, etc, and modest experience with plumbing.

Therefore, I have two options:
1) buy a HERMS system
2) build one using VERY specific instructions, including some guidance as to where to find carts, pumps, etc.

So, does anyone know of vendors or regular folk who sell such systems (I am in Texas, if that matters)? Alternatively, are there places one can get a SPECIFIC, step-by-step how-to-build-your-own guide?

FYI, when I say specific, I mean "put tab A into slot B," not "build your cart, then attach the control panel you designed...."

The engineering-impaired thank you :)

Sabco Brewmagic is my dream system, but it's a RIMS. They do sell parts & plans, though.

Well you might want to start here to make one....
http://morebeer.com/phpBB2/viewforum.php?f=1&sid=6e926a81c0cac4c84c0d53237f5f 5182&PHPSESSID=9765e4207bdd79ecc69db5991f3dde22

Here is another link: Heat Exchange Recirculating Mash System

Check out morebeer.com They have all kinds of those fancy systems.

Of course, spending thousands on a system when you could spend hundreds will probably delay the day when your brewing breaks even cost-wise. But I realize there are some folks who just like a complex answer to a simple problem, and in that spirit, morebeer's systems look awesome.

Cheers :D

I have the More Beer catalogue, and I indeed have drooled over their sculptures. However, up to $5000 or more for a brew setup is WELL above my means and willingness to spend.

What I hope to do is get a good set of plans suitable for a non-engineer and build my own, or buy a used sculpture or system from someone.

Tnlandsailor has some pretty detailed information on his site.

I do like their design of the stand. I've never seen that type of setup. Nice and low profile. Wonder how tall it is? I'm guessing about 6'? With a HLT that'd be really tall! Still trying to think up the best frame for my metal working brew assistant to spec out for me...

http://www.morebeer.com/product_images/1/2480.jpg

BYO had a recent article wth plans for a stand like that using exhaust piping. It looked really nice. I'm trying to get pieces together to do it so XtrmXJ can weld it up for me before he leaves. :D

He help me get my system up and running, and it works very well.