My Big-Build Thread

[JoeRags]

I figured it was about time I started a build thread. I'll be keeping this going with pics of the progress I make with the new 20 gallon AG setup. So far things are going well. I've got quite a bit accomplished... and its taken a while, but I'm surely on my way!

My plan is a 4 vessel setup. My HLT is made from a Sanke keg and is elevated. Underneath that, within the frame, will sit a smaller vessel, heated electrically that will contain the HERMS coil. Then two 100 quart stainless pots. One for the MT which contains a stainless mesh false bottom, and the other a boil kettle. I've also got all stainless 3pc valves, and 25 feet of brewers/vinters hose. System will consists of 1 pump, a therminator chiller, and propane burners (yet to be sized). I plan on plumbing my gas lines at some point.

The frame is built from 2x2 mild steel tube. I have casters on order the the feet of this rig as its going to weigh quite a bit.

The Rig:



Some welds... I'm a novice TIG welder at best...



False bottom of the MT

[JoeRags]

HLT Sanke keg valve



Sparge arm





I'm getting there... I've also got a 24 gallon Toledo spun stainless hopper currently undergoing a transformation.

What do you think? Comments? Suggestions?

[kladue]

Here are couple tips for TIG welding parts onto stainless steel pots, get a piece of brass or copper ~1/4" thick to help prevent burn through. If you dont/cant back purge use harris solar flux or superior #9 backup fluxes to prevent sugaring on the backside. Mix the flux powder with water to make a slurry and paint on area (3/4"-1" from weld) to keep from coloring the weld area. If you come up against a real thin pot use harris safety silv 56 silver solder and stay silv flux instead of trying to weld. Most propane/mapp gas torches will work to get the work hot enough, cut a couple of pieces of solder 1/4" long and lay them in the joint area to tell when it is hot enough, add solder as needed to finish.

[JoeRags]

Originally Posted by kladue

Here are couple tips for TIG welding parts onto stainless steel pots, get a piece of brass or copper ~1/4" thick to help prevent burn through. If you dont/cant back purge use harris solar flux or superior #9 backup fluxes to prevent sugaring on the backside. Mix the flux powder with water to make a slurry and paint on area (3/4"-1" from weld) to keep from coloring the weld area. If you come up against a real thin pot use harris safety silv 56 silver solder and stay silv flux instead of trying to weld. Most propane/mapp gas torches will work to get the work hot enough, cut a couple of pieces of solder 1/4" long and lay them in the joint area to tell when it is hot enough, add solder as needed to finish.

Thanks for the tips... I'm learning on my own... so any help is great!

[runhard]

Nicely done. Can't wait to see the rig take shape.

[brewman !]

Where did you get the pots from ?

[JoeRags]

Originally Posted by brewman !

Where did you get the pots from ?

Local chef supply house... $220/ea after taxes. Online I found some a few dollars cheaper, but shipping was like $70. Better off picking them up myself.

[JoeRags]

Progress being made. Still have to paint half, casters, gas plumbing and burners, mount Therminator and pump, finish MT..... then build a grain mill.




Here's my 4th vessel. I have a 2000 watt electric heating element to provide heating of the HERMS coil. I just need to weld the coupling into the bottom of the keg and straighten out my 3/8 copper tubing.

[JoeRags]

Here's my 24 gallon Toledo hopper. I had to have a friend weld this up, I would have surely screwed it up good. Still need to rig the top to seal, and accomodate a vent.

[sause]

Does the weld on the inside look just as good on the fermentor? Thats the important part. Other wise I like your setup comma are you going NG or LP? Check out the huge burners that Edwort has here.