Hello all, I couldn't find a thread about this.... so I apologize in advance if I missed it..... How long can I expect a .5 Micron oxygen aeration stone to last for?
Oxygenation Stone Question
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VikeMan
It ain't all burritos and strippers, my friend.
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A stainless steel sintered stone? I'd say almost indefinitely, if you take care of it, i.e. don't get your skin oils on it, and clean/flush it immediately after use. Basically, keep it from getting clogged.
OP
OP
Thanks for the info!
LarMoeCur
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I've had one going on 10 years. Still works like a charm. I clean and blast out any sanitizer after each use. I think it will last a life time at this rate.
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Do you guys use an oxygen flow meter to measure the amount of oxygen dispensed?
VikeMan
It ain't all burritos and strippers, my friend.
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I have one, but I don't usually use it. Generally, I oxygenate for "X" seconds at "Y" PSI for a given volume, gravity and yeast type (ale/lager). But sometimes I will deviate from that, depending on goals for the batch. For example, hefeweizens get nothing and like it.
After I'm sure mine has dried I wrap some aluminum foil around it. Figuring it helps keeps it clean. Plastic bags can have mold release chemicals in them or simply get scraped off lightly onto something like an airstone. Just an idea.
LarMoeCur
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I do. I try to run .5L for 1 minute (10 gallon batch).
Quentin Nelson
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I have the stainless .5 “stone” with screw fittings, stainless wand & medical O2 bottle & regulator. Turn the reg up just until it starts to flow generously but not furiously; about 1 LPM. Stir with wand, stone near bottom for 1-2 min. Yeast book gives rough guide & confirms importance of pure O2. When I’m done I rinse, unscrew stone & drop it into a tiny jar of 100 proof whisky. Kills germs & food grade!
OP
OP
Thanks for all the feedback. Since I've upgraded to my 1/2 bbl system, I have not been paying any attention to yeast starters and oxygenation. Consequently, my last few brews have not fully fermented 
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LarMoeCur
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Thanks for all the feedback. Since I've upgraded to my 1/2 bbl system, I have not been paying any attention to yeast starters and oxygenation. Consequently, my last few brews have not fully fermented
Oh..yeah..the bigger you go the more yeast health and starters and O2 matters. Hard to underpitch when you only need only need 200 billion cells just pictch a smack pack. Well now you need 600 billion or more better start stepping up starters or brew a 5 gallon batch.
I suggest a good boil as well. 5 minutes before you use it, 2 minute star-san bath, and it is good to go. I then boil again after use usually. An extra step, but i already have the pan of water ready to from before using it.
