Doubling Down: SS Brewtech Conical + FTSS + Glycol Power Pack

[JohnnyBe]

I’m currently using a TC thermowell with an inkbird sensor in it. Eventually I plan to upgrade to a BCS or Pi instead, but I first need to get a few other brewhouse components finished up before I spend the time wiring something up. You can see the inkbird and thermowell in the photo I posted earlier.

 

[Bigs166]

I have the brewers hardware conical. The only issue I have with it over the SS is heating. There really isn’t a good way to heat it in my opinion if you ever need to do so. My thoughts on how I could if ever needed is either try wrapping it with a heat mat or using a separate glycol bath that is heated. I haven’t tried either yet since I haven’t had the need to yet, but figure I will soon enough.

What do you think of that icemaster 100? I’m very close to pulling the trigger. I’ll be using it with a 1/2bbl unitank.

 

[JohnnyBe]

Its good, but it doesn't have its issues. If you look at reviews for it you'll see that several people have had issues with the drain port leaking. I too had that issue, but it was a relatively easy fix. Just not something I felt I should have to do since the manufacturer should fix the known issue. Other than that it has been working well for me and I'm glad I got it.

 

[Bigs166]

Its good, but it doesn't have its issues. If you look at reviews for it you'll see that several people have had issues with the drain port leaking. I too had that issue, but it was a relatively easy fix. Just not something I felt I should have to do since the manufacturer should fix the known issue. Other than that it has been working well for me and I'm glad I got it.

So it will easily cold crash your tank? What size is your tank?

 

[martianpc]

So just an update for those who recommended going with the BH Jacketed conical.

I thought about the 20 gallon but ultimately ended up buying the 15g. I have built a Raspberry Pi that is running Craftbeerpi and will control my DIY Glycol system, the conical pump, a submersible aquarium heater in the glycol bath for heating needs, and a second pump for that dream second conical. I still have to 3d print the pi enclosure case and finish installing my insulated glycol pipes since the chiller is about 8 feet away in an unfinished area so it isn't noisy. I had Brewers Hardware custom make a racking cane that will attach to the leg and has a Tri Clamp on the bottom, much like the SSBrewtech does. I am also making a stainless cart with 8" long tri clamp spools to make the conical taller. It will have casters on the bottom and a very wide base that will support and strengthen the legs so it can be moved full around the brew house.

The conical is shipping tomorrow and should be here next week.

Thanks for the great advice!

 

[drunkmonk59]

Hey, I have been reading this thread for the past year and it has helped me so much in making the purchase of my 14g Unitank and all the needed accessories. Thanks for all the great info that's been posted! I'm sorry if this has been asked further back already. For you folks that have the leg extensions, I've been trying to get each leg totally flush with the floor the last hour. It seems no matter what Combo of the washers they provide me, there is always at least one of the 4 legs that is not totally touching. Has anybody had the same problem, or had this thing try and tip over when filled? Maybe I am overstressing about this?