Bazooka Screen to Manifold

[Bandit]

I am currently Batch Sparging with a Bazooka screen in a rectangular cooler and I am considering trying a Manifold. I like the Bazooka screen because it is easy to remove and clean and my efficiency is good, but I normally have to Vorlauf about 2qts (3 times) before running clear and I have to tip the cooler upwards to completely drain it.

My question is if anyone has started with a Bazooka screen and switched to a Manifold and saw some worthwhile benefits.

 

[corax]

My question is if anyone has started with a Bazooka screen and switched to a Manifold and saw some worthwhile benefits.

I went the other way -- manifold to SS hose braid -- and noticed a decrease in grain solids.

 

[Haputanlas]

I went the other way -- manifold to SS hose braid -- and noticed a decrease in grain solids.

Same here.


However, the only benefit I can think of is increased efficiency with a fly sparge.

Since I batch sparge, stainless braids are perfect. I don't typically have to vorlauf at all.

 

[Haputanlas]

Oh, you know what? There is a big difference in a bazooka than stainless braids. I'd recommend getting a stainless braid to replace your bazooka if you're only worried about particulates.

It's only like $5-$7 at Lowes or Home Depot. Well worth it.

 

[JohnnySardonic]

Oh, you know what? There is a big difference in a bazooka than stainless braids. I'd recommend getting a stainless braid to replace your bazooka if you're only worried about particulates.

If you don't mind me asking, what are the differences?

 

[phoenixs4r]

If you don't mind me asking, what are the differences?

The holes are significantly larger in a bazooka screen.

 

[Haputanlas]

The holes are significantly larger in a bazooka screen.

Yep. I've used both and the stainless braid is better.

 

[Bandit]

Thanks everyone for the responses. Sounds like the braid is the clear winner so far.

 

[Bandit]

Wanted to provide an update. I replaced my bazooka screen with a stainless braid and I did see an improvement in the wort clearing much quicker. And the mash tun drained easier without needing to tip it up to get the last wort out. I guess it is best to stick with the tried and true methods.
Thanks for the replies.

 

[Tyru007]

I have used both the bazooka screen and the braid and each has + and -.

The bazooka screen is stiffer and does not tend to move around when stirring the mash. It does take more recycle to get a clear runnoff. This is not as big a deal to me as I batch sparge.

The braided screen will run clearer with less recycle

I also have a false bottom that I have used with fly sparging, which IMO, is way more hassle than the extra 2%-5% extraction efficiency is worth.

I have never tried a manifold.

I prefer the braid over the bazooka screen.

 

[Tyru007]

I normally have to Vorlauf about 2qts (3 times) before running clear

Are you saying that you need to recycle 6 qts before it runs clear with a bazoka screen? I have never had to recycle more than 2 qts.

Trying slowing down your runoff rate. I typically crack my ball valve so that 3gallons runs off in about 5 minutes. Too fast a runnoff and the grain bed does not set well. Be carefull adding teh liquid to the top of the mash tun so that you don't disturb the grain bed.

You can also try adding rice hulls, which seem to provide a better filter bed when I use them.

 

[scottvin]

Oh, you know what? There is a big difference in a bazooka than stainless braids. I'd recommend getting a stainless braid to replace your bazooka if you're only worried about particulates.

It's only like $5-$7 at Lowes or Home Depot. Well worth it.

can you paste a link to what the stainless braid is? do you mean a toilet supply line?

edit - I see that is what you mean.. neat idea!