120V biab in 5gal Bayou classic. 2gal batch. Recirc.

[Syncman]

I posted elsewhere about the space under the Bayou basket running dry during recirculate. This started after I swapped from paint strainer to a proper bag. Obviously finer and not draining fast enough to keep up with the pump. . My last brew I had some scorching smell before I realized what was going on. Question is am I using the correct element? Its a 1600W stainless water heater element. Would a different element not burn in this situation? I see talk of low watt density elements? I am addressing the issue with a false bottom, and slowing down the pump as well.

 

[doug293cz]

I posted elsewhere about the space under the Bayou basket running dry during recirculate. This started after I swapped from paint strainer to a proper bag. Obviously finer and not draining fast enough to keep up with the pump. . My last brew I had some scorching smell before I realized what was going on. Question is am I using the correct element? Its a 1600W stainless water heater element. Would a different element not burn in this situation? I see talk of low watt density elements? I am addressing the issue with a false bottom, and slowing down the pump as well.

Any element will scorch if the sump runs dry. Your other mitigation actions should help.

Brew on

 

[Bochez]

Rice hulls in your mash will also help your stuck mash issue.

Any element will fry if run dry. Some will fry instantly others may take a second but all will fry.