FVM build maybe...

[aamcle]

I'm considering another build, I'm using a GF now but previously had a recirculating BIAB system until it leaked once too often.

What I'm interested in is a full volume system were the mash is not in the boiler (like a BrewEasy or Counter top Brutus 20) as this would enable me to automate the system right through to cooling.

I was happy with the beer my Biab kit made and I see no reason that a two vessel FVM shouldn't work perfectly well, although with the possibility of reduced efficiency compared with a sparged system.

However before I put too much effort into it I'd like to ask for your thoughts on this type of design.

Advantages.
easier to automate
clear wort into the boiler ( Ok this may not matter)
spent grain can be allowed to cool before dumping.

Disadvantages.
more equipment
more cleaning.

So what do you think?

Thanks All. Aamcle

 

[renstyle]

Speaking to your desire to consider options before putting too much effort in:

A 10gal round cooler + SS ball lock & bulkhead + brew bag could get you there for less than a bennie.

Your efficiency will take a small hit if you opt to forgo any sparging at all, but it's just a bit more grains.

The bags allow for fairly clear wort, even without recirc.
Spent grain can be cooled before dumping
Cleaning both the cooler-tun and the bag is easy and simple.

No additional hardware is *needed* for a MAIB setup. A bazooka tube or false bottom wouldn't hurt, but it's not necessary when utilizing a bag.

You would have the added advantage of batch sparging a very big beer down the line with the same equipment. It's just a matter of doing multiple runnings vs just one with no-sparge.

 

[aamcle]

I had a 40litre recirculation biab built into a manual water boiler unfortunately I'd built the pump into the base and I had ongoing leaks.

That went and I bought a Grainfather it's very functional but less satisfying than my own builds.

What I'd like to automat from mash through to cooling and to do that I need to have the mash in a separate vessel to the kettle for example similar layout to a BrewEasy.

Calculations indicate that that if I keep my batch size to 23litres I can use the GrainFather boiler with one of the control boxes I have already built.I

I just need a mashtun and a false bottom and then to automate the system