Batch Sparge Issues

[Benson_JV]

Hello all!

I'm going to be doing a 10 gallon brew this Wednesday, but due to the fact I'm batch sparging my mash tun cannot fit what i need.
I need to mash with 19.5 litres, and then top up with 19.8, the H&G mash tun just won't do this i don't think.
I was thinking is it possible to mash with the 19.5 litres, run off, then put first batch in, let it do its business for 10, run that off then go about the 2nd batch as normal?

It seems like it wouldn't have any adverse effects but just in case!

Thanks all.

[Benson_JV]

I don't like to bump threads, but i need to know before tomorrow, surely someone knows?

[Benson_JV]

Cheers Chris!
That's just made it a lot easier to do 10G brews then!

[Hawkinspm]

I can't see any problem with what you are looking to do - I batch sparge in 3 stages every time for 5 gallons:

Mash in with 10 litres

After Mash add 5 litres, stir, allow to settle, recycle then run off
Add 10 litres, stir, allow to settle, recycle then run off
Add 10 litres, stir, allow to settle, recycle then run off

these vary slightly dependant on grain bill but is a rule of thumb that gives me 30 litres of wort.
I allow around 10 minutes for grain bed to settle each time and recycle so I have no grain coming through.

My mash tun would allow for doing this in 2 but I started this way, get 88% efficiency, and if it ain't broke don't fix it.. It works well with time to heat water in HLT in batches, sort hops and I turn the boiler on after the initial 2 run offs then top up with the final batch at which point 20 litres is nearing boiling point.

Paul

[trucker5774]

[quote="Hawkinspm"]I can't see any problem with what you are looking to do - I batch sparge in 3 stages every time for 5 gallons:

Mash in with 10 litres

After Mash add 5 litres, stir, allow to settle, recycle then run off
Add 10 litres, stir, allow to settle, recycle then run off
Add 10 litres, stir, allow to settle, recycle then run off

I like the sound of this simple approach, whether it is done in 2 or 3 batches.
I was wondering if someone could answer one small niggle I have? Just to use the above as a convenient example......Is it important to mash in 10 litres then add 5 at the end. What would be the difference if I simpley mashed in 15 litres?................