Blichmann TopTier for BIAB

[jonestrada]

I came across a good deal on Craigslist and ended up with a Blichmann TopTier Brew Stand. I was planning it for a two vessel system but after assembling it I realized it would be perfect for BIAB.

A 1650W element from Brew Hardware is controlled by an Inkbird IPB-16 controller mounted to the stand and a Bayou Classic false bottom keeps the grain off of the element. A Blichmann AutoSparge manages the re-circulation.

I used a cheap pulley hoist from Harbor Freight to lift the bag. Moving forward I will be using a single ratcheting pulley and lower the burner on the stand so that the brew bag can be lifted 100% above the brew kettle.

First brew day in the books and I hit 1.074 on a 1.068 recipe that was set for 70% efficiency.

 

[cyclonebeer]

I use a pulley like that. You could just attach a boat cleat to the stand and lash the free end of the rope to the cleat while you're draining. No real need for a ratcheting pulley. I'd buy casters for the stand so it could roll to wherever you plan to store it. Nice score.