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flips · 11-07-2012, 02:41 PM

I went with an 11 gallon (44 qt) bayou classic kettle . I started with extract and then went to BIAB about 6 months ago. I am very happy with it. Even with that much extra room I have still had a few boil overs. But I am not very vigilant with my stirring and heat control.

They always happen when I am bringing it up to the initial boil. My recommendation would be to go bigger than 9 gallons.

You do need some extra room for the mash, but I would say that you are still more driven by the boil over risk when using a smaller kettle.

I bought a ball valve and weldless bulkhead a while back, but I have yet to install it. I am undecided on what I want to do about a false bottom, or mesh hose, etc. I just ask the SWMBO to help me dump it in the carboy.

**SpikeBrewing** · 11-07-2012, 02:48 PM

In regards to the triple bottom...

In theory it sounds great. In real life it adds no benefit when brewing beer. If you asked all the Spike Brewing, Blichmann and Bayou classic owners I think they would tell you that their single layer kettles work just fine

Belenus · 11-07-2012, 06:12 PM

Just a thought... If you read the biabrewer.info forums you will see that for 5 ga batches, a 15 ga (60qt) pot is recommended for the bigger beers. I'm setting up for biab and am looking at this pot: http://www.amazon.com/Professional-Commercial-Stainless-Induction-Certified/dp/B003ATSMJY/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pdT1_S_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=A5IV3X0QHVK X&coliid=IJR1RQPT1M4RL

Still waiting on some answers about a burner for it though.

G-Hog · 11-07-2012, 06:35 PM

Missed out on the 40qt kettle on CL. I guess the search is still on.

acidrain · 11-07-2012, 06:52 PM

Whatever you get, if you're going BIAB, get one with a strainer.
Cabelas has a 36 qt. with strainer basket for $79.99

G-Hog · 11-07-2012, 07:08 PM

Seems like the preferred size is 60 quart. Guess I'll look around for a used one.

G-Hog · 11-08-2012, 03:38 PM

Good news. Getting a keg cheap to use as a brew kettle/keggle. Now I have to figure out how big of a burner I'll need to heat it.

revco · 11-08-2012, 05:05 PM

I recommend the Bayou KAB6. It's more money compared to the others, but it's stout as heck, has no problem securely holding a keggle and will get you to a boil in no time. Others will work as well, just make sure you're aware if they have to be modified to safely work with a keggle.

I also strongly recommend considering welded over weldless. While a lot of people are quite happy with their weldless setups, many others fight leaks and eventually look at either a soldered or welded setup. When you look at the cost of having a 2-3 couplers welded in, it's fairly comparable to a weldless setup...especially when you have to buy twice.

I always say...buy once, cry once. You'll be happy with the keggle, for sure.