Cooler/mash tun question

[skydelta34]

I have a 70 qt rectangular cooler I am considering converting into a mash tun. If I am only looking to do a 5 gal batch, is the 70qt cooler too big for the mash? Cooler dimensions are: L29.5" x W16.31" x H15.69"

 

[Pete08]

I asked this and in summary, no. A false ceiling was suggested, to keep heat loss to a minumum due to the extra headspace. I plan to take a couple of styrofoam cooler lids I have hanging around, wrap them in aluminum foil, then wedge in the cooler above the mash.

 

[cactusgarrett]

I'd be more concerned about grainbed depth. Should be okay, but you'll have to take extra precaution in vorlaufing in order to not distrub the grainbed.

For example, i suggest using a coffee container lid or something to dissipate the force generated by pouring the first runnings back in. A thinner bed is more sensitive to disturbances.

 

[FSR402]

I use an 80qt and it works great for both 5 and 10 gallon batched I also fly and batch sparge depending on how much time I have.

 

[seansbrew]

I would recommend a round five gal or ten gal. cooler. I think your efficiency will be better.

 

[FSR402]

I would recommend a round five gal or ten gal. cooler. I think your efficiency will be better.

I get 75-77% when I batch sparge and 85- 90% when I fly sparge with a non-round cooler. The shape means nothing. It comes down to having a good manifold, crush and hitting your numbers.