Sizz
Well-Known Member
Just out of curiosity, how close does the hex probe come to the element itself? I'm wondering if it's picking up hot spots just as they leave the surface of the element before it has a chance to integrate with colder water that rode through further away.
Maybe try a longer center nipple to give the water more mix time.
Note: I'm talking out of my ass.
That's actually a good idea. The probe is only about 1 inch away from the element because I wanted the fastest response. I was hoping the stainless shielding around the probe would be sufficient to average the hotspots. But that's something I should definitely confirm. The probe has a compression fitting holding it so I will slide it back some and see how that effects the response.
I don't believe the caramelization question has been addressed yet, nor has the question for how to maintain both sparge and mash PID configurations. Sounds like he's currently focused on the sparge temperature/flow question, which, I agree is good news.
Have you considered how long it's going to take to get your full volume of strike water up to temperature?
Ideally, heating 25quarts using my summertime ground water temps would take about 15 minutes.
Currently, I've only confirmed that a 5500w element can produce enough heat for inline heating of sparge water. The good news is that worse case scenario, I can make the system work as is by adding a little more hardware (contactor for 120V mode to prevent scorching). An actual full size MLT will average out the temp swings. I could even add a mini mixing reservoir. The multiple PID issue isn't a problem because I have a spare SSR and will just switch between which SSR i'll use(120V or 240V).
Ideally, the above additions won't even be needed if I can get the software modifications required for this wild system. Fortunately, ECC (maker of the BCS controller), is working with me.