IwanaBrich

Recipes 

I've seem some really interesting Mash Lauter Tun designs and I intend to make my own, but I don't know how large to cooler to use?

I typically only brew 5-6 gallon batches, so how big a Mash Lauter Tun would I need?

Also, I made a wort cooler out 3/8 copper tubing. It works well, but is like a spring. I want to stabilize it by either soldering or using fin wire to tie it together. I would use silver solder and lead free flux, but I'm wonder if that will effect the beer. I'm leaning toward bare copper wire, Thoughts?

Thanks,

The Pol

Recipes 

The cooler MLT... get a 10 gallon or 50qt cooler... they are IDEAL for 5-10 gallon batches with no ill effects on efficiency.

noisy123

Recipes 

+1 to the Pol. I only brew 5 or 6 gallon batches, but when I brew big beers I find I need the extra room.

FlyGuy

Recipes 

I agree. The 10 gal round Rubbermaid or the 48 quart rectangular Coleman Extreme are tried-and-true coolers for an MLT. They are a perfect size for 5- gal batches.

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Flattop

Recipes 

Why not stainless steel fishing trace to tie it down, or at least Nylon fishing line?

noisy123

Recipes 

Listen to this guy.

Then build this:
Mash Tun
Then this:
Steam injection

You'll be totally set. I did all of these and its really made all-grain much easier.