I've done several AG batches successfully, and I'm liking the idea of automating things a bit. I'm working on putting together a HERMS system and I'm looking to stay all electric. The scale I'm looking at is 35-40 gallon batches in 55 gallon containers. From what I'm reading others have needed two 5500w heating elements to get ~45 gal in the HLT to the proper temperature for mashing and sparging within a reasonable amount of time.
That's not really a problem, but when it comes to the boiling kettle, I'm thinking I'd probably end up needed another two 5500w burners again, which is a panel draining 22,000 watts!! Assuming all burners are firing (HLT is kicking up for the next batch)
So what I'm wondering is, has anyone ever attempted recirculating the wort through the heat exchanger in the HLT for the boil part of the brew? I was thinking maybe installing one 5500w element in the BK and getting the additional heat needed to get it cranking from circulating through the HLT (set to near boiling). Then once boil is achieved, I'm thinking the circulation could be cut off and the single element might be enough to maintain the boil?
That's not really a problem, but when it comes to the boiling kettle, I'm thinking I'd probably end up needed another two 5500w burners again, which is a panel draining 22,000 watts!! Assuming all burners are firing (HLT is kicking up for the next batch)
So what I'm wondering is, has anyone ever attempted recirculating the wort through the heat exchanger in the HLT for the boil part of the brew? I was thinking maybe installing one 5500w element in the BK and getting the additional heat needed to get it cranking from circulating through the HLT (set to near boiling). Then once boil is achieved, I'm thinking the circulation could be cut off and the single element might be enough to maintain the boil?
