Jim Shellhamer
Member
- Joined
- Apr 5, 2018
- Messages
- 9
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I recently converted a Rubbermaid 10 gallon cooler with a false bottom to a wannabe RIM system. I attached QD fittings to the drain valve and the center of the lid. I also fitted the tip from an old sparge arm to the inside of the lid. I thought I finally got all the design bugs worked out and brewed with it yesterday. Everything worked great except the temperature. The Chugger pump gave me a nice even flow at a slow rate and the wort was crystal clear. But here's the rub. I lost almost 12 degrees on my mash temp during the 60 sach rest. FREAKIN ARGH ! ! ! ! ! My gravity was way low compared to what it should have been. With a 12lb grain bill, Beersmith calculated (at 75% efficency) I should have had an OG around 1.062. Instead my OF was at 1.052. With the exception of 8oz of Black Malt, everything else in that grain bill would provide gravity points. I'm sure that my problem is directly related to the 12 degrees I lost during the recirculation.
I have a few ideas on how to correct that, but it's going to get a little pricey. So I thought I would ask you guys if any of you have encountered this and how you corrected it.
Thanks all !!!
P.S. - This is my first attempt at building a DIY RIM for my Homebrew Supply Store. I've seen other factory RIM and HERMs systems and was trying to keep this as simple as possible.
I have a few ideas on how to correct that, but it's going to get a little pricey. So I thought I would ask you guys if any of you have encountered this and how you corrected it.
Thanks all !!!
P.S. - This is my first attempt at building a DIY RIM for my Homebrew Supply Store. I've seen other factory RIM and HERMs systems and was trying to keep this as simple as possible.