Zero Temp loss in MLT

[Evets]

I used to lose a couple degrees an hour while mashing in my 10g Igloo. not any more. It's just a piece of 2" styrofoam insulation with a zip-tye in the middle. It eliminates all that head-space. Works great.

 

[Dr Vorlauf]

This is a great idea. I will try it in my rectangular cooler.

 

[RoaringBrewer]

So this sits right on top of the mash? Any risk of off-flavors from this? Maybe you could coat the piece in 'plasti-coat' or something. Not sure where you buy this stuff, but I've heard of it... may have even been on here.

 

[malkore]

I never get off flavors drinking coffee from a styrofoam cup.

or when I pour boiling water in some Nissin Cup o Noodles styrofoam cup.

I don't think you'd hit high enough temps to cause any problems.

 

[david_42]

Great idea! Closed cell polystyrene is about as flavor-free as things get. Be a good excuse to buy that hot wire cutter. You could even poke a thermometer through that.

 

[Evets]

Great idea! Closed cell polystyrene is about as flavor-free as things get. Be a good excuse to buy that hot wire cutter. You could even poke a thermometer through that.

Actually, yes, I do just poke my thermometer thru. Forgot to mention that. And I've yet to notice any off flavors.

 

[denimglen]

Awesome idea, I have trouble keeping temps in my 40qt cooler and was thinking headspace might be a problem.

Well have to give this a shot, cheers!

 

[derogg]

FARGING AYE !!!!! Some of you guys here are geniuses. Cool idea....got to keep my eyes open for a bit if styrofoam.

 

[malkore]

Mods should move this to the DIY section

 

[RoaringBrewer]

Sounds good then, looks like i'm going to get on this MLT 'mod' soon... I only have done one AG batch to date, but it lost 3-5F in that hour...

 

[Ryan_PA]

Hmmm. I have some scrap insulation at home. I plan to brew tonight, I will make a false top for my rectangular tun and gage the results. I have been struggling with temp loss like a mofo, so this may be the answer to my prayers. Plus it should be pretty darn cold during the mash, so this will be a great baseline test.

Edit:
Outside temp 36
Mashed in at 6:20, hit mash temp 154
Check 1 - 6:45 - 154
Check 2 - 7:05 - 154 (showed 152 prior to stir)
End of mash: 154.

You sir are simply my new hero.

 

[Evets]

Glad I could be of some assistance.