If I had a welder, I would build my own, I dont want to run all over to job shops to get things welded and such... Id much rather do it myself.
After looking (mostly drooling) for a couple of years at the various commercial home breweries available, most notably the more beer 2050, I decided to build my own the way I wanted. Given my biotech manufacturing background, I wanted to build something that first and foremost gave me consistency and control of my process. I wanted the ability to select from various processes (single step or multi-step infusion or decoction), enter the process parameters I wanted (beer recipe), connect a water, propane gas, and electrical supply and just sit back and monitor the process with minimal interaction other than adding the ingredients at the various times. I didnt have to worry about monitoring the various temperatures, levels, timing of additions and a ton of other things that go on brew day. Its not that Im lazy; I just wanted to be able to watch a ballgame, brew and drink some beer at the same time. Maybe even watch over some hotdogs on the grill!
I've been planning my HERMS system now for over a year. Most of that time has been spent designing and figuring out the automation sequences that I wanted and both researching and collecting necessary parts. I also looked at many other system designs out there, both commercial and from my home brewer brethrens out there.
Fabrication began last month with the delivery of 3x 20' stainless steel square tubing (1.5" x 16gauge). I had bought a TIG welder (which I have wanted to get for some time for other projects) the previous month. I shopped around and got the stainless I needed for $400 and change delivered. I decided to do the welding myself, both to learn a new skill and because I didn't know any welder in the area.
In addition to this, I ordered 3x 20gal Blichmann BoilerMakers, 3x March 809 pumps (for the automated process sequences I wanted, I had the option to get automated 3-way valves or add an additional pump...pump was much cheaper). All "product contact" valves are stainless and all valves, except the flow control valves are solenoid diaphragm valves. All product contact connections are 3/8 or ½ tri-clamp stainless fittings.
The system is controlled using a touch screen SCADA system. Temperature, flow rates and liquid levels are all monitored and controlled via the automation (actual flow rates are controlled by the use of two manual valves). The system keeps track of process step times and prompts you when an ingredient addition is needed. All electronics are housed in a NEMA 4 stainless steel enclosure. During the process and the CIP cycle there is no need to change any connections. The CIP cycle is also controlled by the system, although I have to validate its effectiveness.
From scratch the system will come in under $4k (way under $4k if the wife asks). A good chunk of this was spent on the tri-clamp fittings and solenoid valves (all 9 of them total). I saw many other systems with fewer valves, but it required more human interaction thus I ran the risk of missing my team score a touchdown or hit a home run :rockin:. I also could have gone with other types of fittings, but knowing all the benefits of tri-clamps I went with those. I didnt want to have any regrets a year from now.
Ill post pictures when Im done in like a month of two.
or you could order one from www.brewersequipment.com
so far these are the best prices that i have seen!
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