Hello homebrewers!
I was pointed towards this forum area to get some ideas, and inspiration, and a little guidance for a brew setup. I have been brewing over 30 years, but have always used the manpower method. I want to at least add PID control to my mash, and then probably some pumps and valves to help reduce the amount of hose-switch dancing. Full automation may happen, but it is not important right now. I’ll call this semi–automation.
I already have:
I feel like RIMS is the proper solution for me. I’m not 100% sold on that but it feels more efficient.
I have looked at the direct Sparge systems, and I do not think that is a viable solution for me. While very ingenious, I believe I will have to treat my sparge water more often than not.
I don’t have any preference with regard to tiers, as a matter of fact I was thinking something along the lines of gravity feed Sparge, with two pumps might be a good set up. I am looking for the basis for automation, if I don’t ever really do full automation. I will be doing PID control for my mash of course, but the valves I may actuate electrically with switches.
I know nothing about actually designing/using a pump valve setup, so please feel free to dumb it down for me. i.e. if you recommend a "2VDS" please tell me what that is and maybe point me towards an example (although this is the one setup I semi-understand.)
I am VERY likely to ask dumb questions - just a warning.
I was pointed towards this forum area to get some ideas, and inspiration, and a little guidance for a brew setup. I have been brewing over 30 years, but have always used the manpower method. I want to at least add PID control to my mash, and then probably some pumps and valves to help reduce the amount of hose-switch dancing. Full automation may happen, but it is not important right now. I’ll call this semi–automation.
I already have:
- 10 gallon cooler mash tun with SS false bottom
- Kettle
- Propane burner
- Counterflow chiller
I feel like RIMS is the proper solution for me. I’m not 100% sold on that but it feels more efficient.
I have looked at the direct Sparge systems, and I do not think that is a viable solution for me. While very ingenious, I believe I will have to treat my sparge water more often than not.
I don’t have any preference with regard to tiers, as a matter of fact I was thinking something along the lines of gravity feed Sparge, with two pumps might be a good set up. I am looking for the basis for automation, if I don’t ever really do full automation. I will be doing PID control for my mash of course, but the valves I may actuate electrically with switches.
I know nothing about actually designing/using a pump valve setup, so please feel free to dumb it down for me. i.e. if you recommend a "2VDS" please tell me what that is and maybe point me towards an example (although this is the one setup I semi-understand.)
I am VERY likely to ask dumb questions - just a warning.
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