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Ok, so I finally got around to organizing the data for additional experiments with the Reflectix insulation. It has been suggested that the optimal method when using Reflectix insulation is to have an air gap of about 2 cm (3 layers). I also added another method, where I created a "dome". It...

I started my cider this weekend. I got 6 gallons of juice from Sam's Club and it measured about 1.048. I didn't bother adding any sugar. I split into two bathes. 5.4 gallons as the primary batch with S-04 and then another 0.6 gallon batch using just over 2 oz of Wyeast 1335 slurry from...

I'll trust that Yooper is right and go with these changes: 1. No sugar addition (as long as the 1.004 you quote is from an SG of 1.050). I definitely want to retain the apple flavor. Yes, the beers I'm serving will be around 5.5% and I don't want to go too much higher. Those numbers should...

Thanks! And yes, the table sugar is less expensive and I wasn't worried of the reported "cidery" off-flavor from using table sugar.

I'm looking at making a last minute addition of a hard cider to a party we are holding in 6 weeks. I've never done cider before, so I'm looking for an easy/solid crowdpleaser. Our local orchards won't have fresh cider for a few weeks and neither will my LHBS, so I'm looking at using some...

Beertastic, Can you describe your exact method? Gap distance, layer count, etc. I'm trying to make sure I replicate the insulation path as best as possible, or be able to understand any differences.

Interesting approach and I think a good one based on some of my current thoughts. I might try to whip one up and make that my last set of addendum tests.

Data will be coming. Also, I do not currently have a recirculation system and honestly don't plan to just yet. On one hand, it's one more thing to clean. On the other hand, it might actually aid in cleaning, so the jury is out. Unless someone wants to donate one for the test...

Thanks for bringing up some discussion points. 1. Test on that upcoming 2. Yes, and sealing all gaps as well. Even though I didn't make a completely sealed top, I repeated one of the gap tests for the Reflectix just to ensure there were no gaps and it made a measurable difference. 3. See...

IGNORE my previous comments if you saw them. I was asking about your modifications, but it appears that I've somehow missed a lot of posts. I'll go back and catch up.

Ok, I've just started a test with a 2.0 cm (3 layer) air gap. Once that is complete, I'll start a test with a 1 layer air gap and we'll see what happens.

Yes, I'm doubting my own comment. I've always had the feeling that a mash/water mix holds temp much better too, but is it the additional mass or the specific heat capacity?

Whatever gets the job done!

Theoretically, the combined specific heat capacity of the grain/water mixture is lower and will this cool at a very slightly greater rate. I plan to test this as well, because theory is, well theory. This is why I kept the testing to just straight water.

I've still got my test rig set up, so hopefully I can run another test this weekend with an air gap.

Yes, it was in my basement, which was at a pretty constant 65 degrees. I've got some other fun experiments planned, but I've still got to get some stuff ready.

Ok, I said I was working on an experiment. With all the discussion on temperature control, I ran an experiment on 4 different methods of insulation and measured the temperature losses. At the risk of double posting and also hijacking this thread, here is the thread here showing the results...

I just picked up a new Brewer's Edge Mash & Boil (No, I haven't actually brewed with it yet), but since I knew I'd need some form of insulation, I experimented with a few different kinds of insulation. Even though I used the Brewer's Edge as the test bed, the results should apply to any mash...

I just bought one and I'm in the middle of some experiments. I'll report back...

Agreed, I plan to switch over to this system from exclusive BIAB. During the mash now, I just insulate my kettle and add a little heat if I'm low. I plan to do the same with the Brewer's Edge.