My fermenter runneth over...

[Mmmbeer77]

So I FINALLY got my Mini-Brew 6.5 sanitized to make a batch that wouldn't spoil; long story. I decided to brew my own version of a porter using partial mash. I pitched my yeast (I always make a starter the day before) and waited. I had normal fermentation for the first two days, par for the course. It even slowed down from the initial activity consistent with many previous brews. I did use the advice of the manufacturer and drain off a minute amount each night being very careful to sanitize the drain valve each time. As I understand, this is to drain of dead yeast cells, trub, ect. Then, after work the third day, I looked at it and the 3 piece airlock had completely filled with "the junk" and had oozed what ends up being something really waxy once it dried. I left the airlock alone and loosened the center lid enough for any other excess CO2 to escape.
So, WTF? Sorry. Do conicals do that when you drain them off a little each night? I had a similar problem in a glass carboy, but that was 12lbs of DME. This recipe had 6 + a partial mash using 2.5lbs of grain.

Any ideas on what happened? Should I just get a blow-off tube and forget the matter?
It's just weird!

 

[suprchunk]

I've never heard good things about those, with their little valves and all.

What is the reasoning behind draining a bit off each night?

I think your experience is par for the course with the tiny valves. I would treat it like a carboy and have a blowoff, or airlock hooked up to it.

As for the crap that blew out? Sound like normal kräusen.

 

[Mmmbeer77]

Here's what it looked like.
Apparently, removing the dead yeast cells daily, causes the live yeast cells to become more active. That is straight from the use and care pamphlet that it comes with.
As far as the valves go, they are fine. The only issues I have had are difficulty in fully sanitizing it, and the current overflow. It appears that both are either now fixed or will be with the purchase of a blow-off tube and bung.
I hate the word "bung" in relation to beer. How about adopting plug, cork, or stopper instead. All in favor?