Beginner HERMS questions

[ExHempKnight]

I tend to have a lot of down time at work. Tonight I decided to use it wisely, and put what's been running through my head into something visual (and get paid while I'm doing it).

The system I have in mind is a 2-tier using 3 converted kegs. I plan on heating the HLT and BK with 240V ~5000 watt elements, each controlled by an Auber PID. Fluid flow is handled by 1 pump, 6 3-way ball valves, 2 regular ball valves, a float valve, and a metering valve. Wort on it's way to the fermenter from the BK is cooled by a CFC.

Just looking to get some feedback... Feel free to point out any flaws that need remedied, any improvements that can be made, or even if I did anything revolutionary (doubtful lol).

It might be kinda small, so sorry if it's hard to see. But anyways, without further ado:

 

[Beer_Guy]

Check out the DTY Section. There are a lot of posts on this type setup and some posters may not come into the Beginners area often.

Oh and you pic did not come through.

 

[ExHempKnight]

Thanks. I'll put it up there. After I figure out what's wrong with the pic.

 

[drew21close]

Thats a nice plan. Have you started working on it now?

 

[ExHempKnight]

Thanks!

So far, all I have the is kegs that I'll convert to the various vessels. I think I'll start with the boil kettle... That way I can start doing full-volume extract boils while I collect the rest of the parts.

 

[kornbread]

It looks like you're gonna spend a bunch of money on valves. I'm in the planning stages myself and I know I'm going to need a certain number of valves. But, I'm looking at adding quick connects and moving hoses around instead of a lot of hard pluming and valves.

I haven't begun pricing materials yet and valves may be about the same price as quick connects but I doubt that. Valves, however, would be more convenient during the brew day.

 

[ExHempKnight]

I was pondering the same. However, valves seem easier and much less messy. I don't think the QD's have internal shutoffs, so any time you disconnect a hose, there will be spillage.

I plan on having as many of the valves as possible hard plumbed on the stand itself, with short lengths of flex hose going from the hard lines to the brewing vessels, connected by QD's. This will facilitate cleaning.

I also plan on a drain valve of some sort, below the pump outlet.

Not sure what the valves will cost (the 3-way ball valves are more expensive than simple on/off ball valves), but even if valves come out more expensive than QD's, I'm still going to use them.