I am thinking about creating a fermentation temperature control device. I was thinking about using an STC-1000 temp control unit hooked up to a fridge and a warming plate. For the temperature probe I want to measure the temperature of the wort directly so was looking into a 30cm long pt100 (like this one http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1-2-3m-Length ... 1476417021). Does anyone know if that is the correct resistance to be used with the STC1000? Also, how much of the probe would need to be in the wort? Or does anyone have any other recommendations on how to get the temperature of the wort directly?
Thanks
Fermentation Temperature Control
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AnthonyUK
Re: Fermentation Temperature Control
You'll need an NTC type for the STC-1000.
If you are making relatively small batches e.g 5-10 gal then measuring the outside of the fermentor is accurate enough.
If you are making relatively small batches e.g 5-10 gal then measuring the outside of the fermentor is accurate enough.
Re: Fermentation Temperature Control
The one you identify in your post is a K type probe.
I use the ones which come with the STC1000, they are very good. Make up a small 3 x 3 envelope of bubble wrap and stick it to the side of your FV on 3 sides then put the probe into the envelope via the 4th side up next to the side of the FV. This is sufficiently accurate to control your fridge heater. I would also suggest you check the temp of where you plan to brew. I often brew in the garage at this time of year and find I only need a small amount of heat rather than the full heating and cooling of a brew fridge. A fridge is very useful for maintaining the low temps required when lagering for 4 weeks or so.
I use the ones which come with the STC1000, they are very good. Make up a small 3 x 3 envelope of bubble wrap and stick it to the side of your FV on 3 sides then put the probe into the envelope via the 4th side up next to the side of the FV. This is sufficiently accurate to control your fridge heater. I would also suggest you check the temp of where you plan to brew. I often brew in the garage at this time of year and find I only need a small amount of heat rather than the full heating and cooling of a brew fridge. A fridge is very useful for maintaining the low temps required when lagering for 4 weeks or so.
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allanmb
Re: Fermentation Temperature Control
Thanks for the information guys. I have found a long NTC probe which should let me insert via the bung alongside the airlock. I am keen to measure actual wort temperature as I may be increasing FV size soon. I did think that over winter I wont need the fridge which is good but it would help at the end of fermentation to drop the yeast out of suspension.