sparge question?

[brewyourown4life]

i batch sparge and have only done one all grain batch so far. my question is after i do my first runnings and then add my sparge water for second and possibly third runnings, after the water is added and everything is stirred do i need to let it sit awhile or can i start draining it right away. just wondering what you guys think

 

[mrduna01]

Each time you add water you should stir, let it settle and compact for 10 or so minutes and then recirculate to clear and set the grain bed. This is my approach anyway.

 

[Reno_eNVy]

+1 on letting it sit 10-15 minutes.

 

[Boodlemania]

Everyone has a different approach, but here is mine for what it's worth.

I do not drain before I add the first sparge to the MLT. I stir and allow to sit for 5 minutes. I then vorlauf about a gallon (or when clear) and drain.

Second sparge is a repeat.

I have found with my setup that if I let it sit too long, the grain bed compacts more and I get a slower drain. 5 minutes is optimum for me. Again, YMMV.