Pump Choices

[kzimmer0817]

HBTers,

This question has likely been discussed, so I'd be perfectly happy if someone posts link(s) to the thread(s).

What are the advantages and disadvantages of various pumps? I've seen Chugger and March pumps. Someone used a cute little pump powered by DC current in his build, but I think he eventually had trouble with it.

I've seen pumps in which the input enters the center of the head as well as those that are inline. I remember reading in a thread somewhere that someone was recommending the center input over the inline.

Thanks,
Keith

 

[day_trippr]

Before "advantages", you need to get past "requirements", which very rapidly reduces the field of potential solutions down to March, Chugger and Li'l Giant magnetically coupled centrifugal pumps. Then you can look at cost-benefits of the differences between these brand offerings (stainless head vs plastic, center-inlet vs in-line, etc).

Center-inlet pumps are incrementally better performers than in-line...

Cheers!

 

[NWMushroom]

I have the chugger center stainless head and am very happy with it. When comparing chugger center vs inline:

The INLINE heads have 1/2" male NPT on the inlet and outlet (both the stainless and polysulfone plastic heads are similar in this regard).

The stainless center inlet head has a 3/4" NPT male on the center inlet and a 1/2" male NPT on the outlet.

If you buy the center pump from brewhardware you get a 3/4" to 1/2" female converter included (if needed):

http://brewhardware.com/pumps/133-chuggerpump

 

[kzimmer0817]

Thanks so far. The purpose of the pump will be to recirculate wort during mash using BIAB. It may be used to transfer wort to the fermenter. The main reason for asking is that I'm considering the purchase of HighGravity's BIAB system.

http://www.highgravitybrew.com/productcart/pc/BIAB-Electric-Brewing-System-269p3987.htm

This system was discussed on the following thread:

https://www.homebrewtalk.com/f170/biab-electric-brewing-system-383137/

It includes an inline Chugger pump. NWMushroom commented that he omitted the pump because he already had a center inlet Chugger pump.

So, I guess I was wondering if there are some reasons why one would prefer one brand or style over the other for the above-mentioned purposes.

Thanks, guys,
Keith