Stir plate prototype

[user 163849]

I'm still awaiting the arrival of the 50 foot immersion chiller that I ordered after the 25 footer that I made proved to be less than adequate. With that and my sump pump for recirculating ice water I should be able to find the confidence to start my first brew even though the summer temps are high.

So tonight after the rheostat and magnets that I ordered from Amazon arrived I decided to mock up a stir plate, even though all the posts about problems with design and execution on this and other sites had led me to pretty much resign myself to the fact that it would be better just to buy a ready made stir plate. It just sounded like more trouble than it was worth to get one working reliably.

I have still not built a completed stir plate but my mock up is working far beyond my expectations. The following pics show the fan running at minimum, mid and full speeds (5.5 vdc, 8.3 vdc, and 13.8 vdc). I used a measuring cup as it has a flat bottom and I do not yet own a flask. It will throw the magnet if I slow it down too rapidly but recovers on it's own before I have time to take any action. I hope it works as well once I get it completed.

 

[Hang Glider]

good job!

You won't need the large vortex, you're only keeping the yeast in suspension when you make a starter. Also, a starter wort has more viscosity than just water - so adjustments might need to be made when there is an actual starter sitting on that stir-plate.

now box it up to prevent cuts from those sharp edges!

 

[user 163849]

Done! It seems a little agressive with water in a measuring cup but I will wait to make any adjustments after I get a flask filled with wort.

 

[user 163849]

Just to update this.

I have made no changes sice installing the prototype in the antique bakelite box. It has been trouble free so far amd is spinning away right now on it's 5th starter.

 

[Hang Glider]

gotta love the old-style rheostat