Ragtop232

Recipes 

thughes, recirculating constantly during the mash is a must for my system. I have a couple ideas if the bag/false-bottom do not work. I do think recirculating at 100% pump capacity is unrealistic, but if I can recirculate at about 1/2 gal per minute I think that would be perfect. A medium fine grind is what I'll be using as efficiency isn't my number one priority, so hopefully that will help in the recirculation.

Jim

thughes

Recipes 

Understood (being that your temp probe is external to the kettle). I have found that even very gentle recirculation will compact the grain bed (and create a very clear wort), it was suggested that I try adding rice hulls and using a coarser grind but I never got around to experimenting with that. Perhaps those ideas may work for you, keep us updated.

---Todd

__________________
nurture my pig

Ragtop232

Recipes 

I just received my Kettle and fittings today from Brewers Hardware. I'm really impressed with the Kettle, very heavy duty and well made.

First picture is the box, well packed and arrived from CA to WV without issue:

Second is the kettle Front, showing the main outlet and tangential inlet:

Last is the back of the kettle, middle is the where the 4500 element will go, on one side of the element will be the thermowell for the temp probe and the other side will be for the anode.

Ragtop232

Recipes 

First photo here is the kettle lid with inlet for recirculation:

Second is the kettle lid holder in position:

Last is the hardware and fittings to put the system together:

BrewHaas

Recipes 

I'd love to see a close up of a weld if you don't mind; inside and out.

BrewHaas

Recipes 

Really like the lid fitting. I don't quite understand the lid holder; seems like a tang on the inside is simpler and doesn't ever put your arms over the heat.

Ragtop232

Recipes 

The clip is built on the outside of the lid, and I plan on hanging the lid on the side, keeping you from having to reach over a hot kettle. You are absolutely right, it would be better on the inside and wouldn't be as awkward to utilize. I'll see if the lighting is good enough to get the close ups.

Jim

Ragtop232

Recipes 

Here are the closeups of the welds. Remember, these are like looking at them with a magnifying glass. I've cropped and sized to fit the upload limits. First is the outside weld and second is the inside of the same fitting.

BrewHaas

Recipes 

Thanks. Nice pot.

tmm0f5

Recipes 

Any more updates? I'd love to see a pic of your setup all put together on your stand.

How have the brew days been going?

-Tim