I'm in the process of wanting to upgrade my propane fired brewery to an all-electric one. While this system has worked for me for the past 15 years (there were only two HERMS systems available at the time to guide me on what to do), I'd like to install a couple of PIDs, heating elements, thermocouples, etc. to automate it more.
My first question is determining what would be the best position of the additional couplings (weldless would be preferred) that I would need for heating elements and temp control monitoring. I plan on reconfiguring my stand to incorporate a single-tier system so will be getting an additional pump. Current pump is rated for 190F (all they had at the time) and I'll use that for the MT/recirculating, etc. The high temp pump will be used for transferring from the BK to my counter-flow Chillzilla.
Here's a couple of pics.
Overview of current brew system (2 tier)
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Pic of HLT connections -- planning on disassembling copper by-pass system but seek input on how to configure best
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Lastly, the BK (has one additional port not being used):
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The MT is pretty straightforward with a false bottom that's connected to a dip-tube and single port out of the kettle.
I'd like some suggestions on how best to place the weldless couplings to allow for electric heating elements and given the placement of the current couplings on the HLT, ideas to allow for thermocouple T's for temperature monitoring, etc. I'm open to changing the BK to the MT since it has an extra coupling already welded and could be utilized as a thermocouple/RTD temperature probe.
Any suggestions on how you would configure it? I'm thinking all of the heating element components I'd attach in the rear of the keggles and add a sight gauge to the BK. Other than that, I'm open to suggestions! TIA!
Kurly
P.S. I've also noticed that my brew stand is starting to rust in spots. Thought it was SS coated but was curious whether one could "re-paint" it with something durable that would fix the blemishes and prevent scratches. Planning on shining up the keggles to make them a little more attractive and shiny.
My first question is determining what would be the best position of the additional couplings (weldless would be preferred) that I would need for heating elements and temp control monitoring. I plan on reconfiguring my stand to incorporate a single-tier system so will be getting an additional pump. Current pump is rated for 190F (all they had at the time) and I'll use that for the MT/recirculating, etc. The high temp pump will be used for transferring from the BK to my counter-flow Chillzilla.
Here's a couple of pics.
Overview of current brew system (2 tier)
Pic of HLT connections -- planning on disassembling copper by-pass system but seek input on how to configure best
Lastly, the BK (has one additional port not being used):
The MT is pretty straightforward with a false bottom that's connected to a dip-tube and single port out of the kettle.
I'd like some suggestions on how best to place the weldless couplings to allow for electric heating elements and given the placement of the current couplings on the HLT, ideas to allow for thermocouple T's for temperature monitoring, etc. I'm open to changing the BK to the MT since it has an extra coupling already welded and could be utilized as a thermocouple/RTD temperature probe.
Any suggestions on how you would configure it? I'm thinking all of the heating element components I'd attach in the rear of the keggles and add a sight gauge to the BK. Other than that, I'm open to suggestions! TIA!
Kurly
P.S. I've also noticed that my brew stand is starting to rust in spots. Thought it was SS coated but was curious whether one could "re-paint" it with something durable that would fix the blemishes and prevent scratches. Planning on shining up the keggles to make them a little more attractive and shiny.