3 kettle system transition help

[dirtybird410]

So my friend and I are transitioning from a 10gal Sparge, 20gal Cooler, 15gal Kettle System to a 3- 25gal Kettle HLT, Mash tun kettle, Boil Kettle system and we are looking for some help.

So far, we have our HLT with valve, thermo, and site glass; Our mash tun with false bottom, valve, and thermo; and boil kettle with valve and thermo.

My question is what extras do we need? We are trying to plan ahead so we can grow into it as needed.

We are planning on adding a sparge port for the mash tun and a inlet port for the boil kettle. We have a pump and appropriate cam lock hose for any transferring needed.

Do we need a site glass on the boil kettle or mash tun? With a FB, do we need a screen on the valve? Would a pick up tube be better than a screen?

Any additional help or information would be appreciated.
Cheers and happy brewing.

 

[Gunfighter04]

How are you planning to hold Mash temp's?

Site glasses on a mash tun are just a pain to clean and don't get you anywhere. I also don't think they are necessary for a Boil kettle. I find marking a mash paddle or a long spoon/dowel, etc to be just as effective.

 

[dirtybird410]

How are you planning to hold Mash temp's?

Direct heat from a burner (as needed)

 

[acidrain]

Speaking from experience, you would be better off trying to keep your heat rather than try to add heat with a direct fired system. Scorched wort is a dumping offence.
I suggest going with insulation and work towards a HERMS.
I like HERMS over RIMS, as I had some scorched batches when circulation slowed for whatever reason.
Also, forget the site glass at the MT, but you do need one at the BK.