Small batch question

[jrc64]

I'm currently doing 5 gallon batches with partial extract kits, but will be switching to all grain. I'm building a 10 gallon mash tun this weekend, and have a question or two.

Can I use this 10 gallon tun for a small batch as well (1 gallon -2.5 gallons)? I would like to experiment a bit before making a full 5 gallon batch that might not turn out well.

Also, can I put 2.5 gallons in my 5 gallon keg? (naturally I would not keg 1 gallon batches. That would go straight to the bottle)

Finally, I'm assumming that if I buy an all grain kit that makes 5 gallons, I would simply either cut the ingrediants in half for a 2.5 gallon batch or divide by 5 for a 1 gallon batch?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Canti4341]

There is no reason you can't use the mash tun for any size batch that will fit. I have never tried putting 2.5 gal in a 5 gal keg but I don't see why it wouldn't work - it would just use up more CO2 to get rid of the O2 in the head space. They do make 3 gal cornies but that would only be if you wanted to make the investment if you were going to continue to use them. And lastly yes, the ingredients should scale with the batch size just as you have described. Best of luck with your all grain upgrade!

 

[Math0]

You can use your 10 gal mash tun to brew a 1 gal kit if you want! It is only more effective when used at full capacity because of the empty space.