wort chiller submersible pump

[zack67360]

Before I buy, would like to know if this pump would be sufficient to use on a 25' 3/8" copper wort chiller? http://www.ebay.com/itm/181230205484?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT
I know there will be some loss of flow d/t head pressure so not sure whether to go with a higher rate flow pump or not. Seems reasonably priced, it will be placed in a igloo cooler with ice water. Thank you,

 

[Minbari]

are you just circulating the ice water to avoid hot spots? if so, it will work fine.

 

[wardens355]

That pump will recirculate probably around 0.5-1 gallons per minute through the chiller, tubing, etc. I use a 1/4 HP sump pump to pump ice water through (I toss 4-5 frozen gallon jugs in a keg tub with minimal water to keep the pump submerged and pull from that). I operating fairly well with a 50-foot 3/8" coil and whirlpool, and would estimate the flow at 2.5 gpm or so. I base all this on pump curves and headloss through a copper tube with some fluff added in for other tubing and fittings. Me personally, I would spend the extra money on a cheap sump pump that can move more water at a higher discharge head. If you are interested in actually looking at the curves:

That pump:
https://www.1000bulbs.com/pdf/hydrofarm-aapw250-instruction_manual.pdf

The pump I use:
http://superiorpump.com/products/utility/91250.html

Typical head loss in copper tubing (1 psi = 2.31 ft head):
http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/pressure-loss-copper-pipes-d_930.html

 

[wardens355]

I would add that if you are cooling indoors, the smaller pump would lower the chance of shooting water everywhere if things aren't tightened well enough. I brew outside, so I can shoot water wherever I please.

 

[wardens355]

Also note that I cool 11 gallons at a time, so I need more flow to cool rapidly.

 

[zack67360]

Am putting together this system for my son and daughter for Christmas. Right now they use an aluminum turkey fryer, and cool in a tub of ice. Have purchased a new Blichmann G1 brew pot. Daughter c/o how long it takes to cool, so the wort chiller is on the list for sure. Thanks for the responses warden and minibari, yes, it will be recirculating ice water. I don't brew beer, but have been doing a lot or research and note others say it works better to use tap water to get the temp down to around 100*, then switch over to ice water. They brew either outside weather permitting, or in the garage if it's real cold out. Thanks for the recommendation on the sump pump, will check them out.
z