Return to top of MLT or side?

[pmsjr]

I am in the midst of converting a 5 gallon Rubbermaid into an MLT for (more or less) a Countertop Brutus 20 setup. I am only looking to make 2.5-3 gallon batches. The original plans, and most photos I have seen of others, have the return line to the MLT going through the lid.

Has anyone tried going through the sidewall as high up as possible and bringing the return in that way?

I saw some 10 gallon coolers done with a Blichmann auto-sparge similar to how I would approach it.

 

[sillbeer]

When I did my brew in a bag I had the return plumbed into the lid with a 360 degree sprinkler head coming out the bottom. I now go in the side with a 3' high temp hose coming down inside as my return. The lid was a little bit of a pain. I forgot to turn the pump off a couple times and sprayed hot sticky wart all over my tool box. Side is definitely nicer but it depends on your setup and what works best for you.

 

[day_trippr]

[...]I saw some 10 gallon coolers done with a Blichmann auto-sparge similar to how I would approach it.

Two sentences in I was going to suggest you look at the Auto-Sparge installation procedure for a solid approach for fitting a bulkhead high up on the cooler wall.

If I was going to do it, I'd follow that lead...

Cheers!

 

[sillbeer]

I have a Blichmann autosparge for sale local to me. I haven't posted it on the forum yet. I used it twice if you are interested.

 

[McKnuckle]

If you ever want to use a bag in the vessel, and have that bag resting or cinched tightly to the vessel's rim, you will need the return going through the TOP. It won't work going through the side for obvious reasons (the liquid won't be able to flow into the bag).

 

[sillbeer]

If you ever want to use a bag in the vessel, and have that bag resting or cinched tightly to the vessel's rim, you will need the return going through the TOP. It won't work going through the side for obvious reasons (the liquid won't be able to flow into the bag).

I was almost considering having a bag made with my side discharge. I think it would be pretty easy to have a slit cut in the side of the bag with reinforced seams. I may go that route if I have any stuck mash issues in the future.