Q re: Maxing out my mash Tun

[weisseguy]

So I’ve already used the Green Bay Rackers “Can I Mash it” calculator but I’m skeptical of the results so I wanted to double check with you guys.

What is the maximum amount of grain I can mash in an 11.7gal tun with 0.5gal dead space assuming 1.25 qt/lb mash thickness?

Also, what are the pros and cons of increasing the mash thickness? How thick is too thick?

As always, thanks in advance!


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[mumblecrunch]

Also, what are the pros and cons of increasing the mash thickness? How thick is too thick?

Lots of good info about mash thickness and its effect on efficiency here: Braukaiser

Generally I think you'll find that it suggests thinner mashes tend to yield better efficiency. The caveat is that a maximally thin mash (e.g., no-sparge) loses about 7-8% efficiency. Thinner mashes are also less likely to produce dough balls.

If you're looking to do a really big beer with a manageable mash thickness to try to maximize efficiency you might be better off doing two smaller mashes or even experimenting with re-iterated mashing (I think a few members here have tried this with decent results, I just can't remember who).

If you're less concerned about efficiency and you just want to do a big beer in a single mash (minimize time spent), I've never seen anyone claim the "Can I Mash It" calculator was wrong.

[weisseguy]

Also, what are the pros and cons of increasing the mash thickness? How thick is too thick?

Lots of good info about mash thickness and its effect on efficiency here: Braukaiser

Generally I think you'll find that it suggests thinner mashes tend to yield better efficiency. The caveat is that a maximally thin mash (e.g., no-sparge) loses about 7-8% efficiency. Thinner mashes are also less likely to produce dough balls.

If you're looking to do a really big beer with a manageable mash thickness to try to maximize efficiency you might be better off doing two smaller mashes or even experimenting with re-iterated mashing (I think a few members here have tried this with decent results, I just can't remember who).

If you're less concerned about efficiency and you just want to do a big beer in a single mash (minimize time spent), I've never seen anyone claim the "Can I Mash It" calculator was wrong.

All of this is fantastic info! Thank you very much!


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[McGruff]

I use Green Bay Rackers the odd time and found it pretty accurate.

[weisseguy]

So I brewed a beer attempting to take my run to the brim and according to the GBR calculator I was maxing it out but in reality I had about 3 inches of space left. I realized three things:

1. I’m over estimating my dead space
2. I literally left out some malt my accident
3. I was slightly undershooting the total volumes anyway just to be safe.

Learning all this will be really helpful when I attempt new high gravity batches!

The end result of this will be two stouts. A RIS (est. ABV 9.5%) made from the combined 1st & 2nd runnings and another weakling (est. ABV 4%) from the 3rd runnings!

Thanks again for the support!
Cheers!




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