False bottom for Mash Tun

[private4587]

I have a plastic cooler box to use as my mash tun, instead of using a copper tube affair as filter I was thinking of making a SS mesh false bottom. What I am wishing to know is what size mesh holes would be suitable. I am quite good at mechanics (retired Tech) so the making of it would not be a problem. Just the size of holes is puzzling as i don't want it too fine or too course that would allow grain to pass through

Many Thanks
peter

 

[Dutto]

If my memory serves me correctly (but sometimes it doesn't!) I drilled 2mm holes in my Mash Tun tubing.

It only takes a few litres of lautering before the mash starts to flow fairly clear and it has never blocked.

Hope this helps. :thumb:

 

[private4587]

thanks for quick reply, what i am hoping to do is place a sheet of SS mesh in and thus wanted to know what size os mesh holes

 

[r-evans]

The 2mm holes on the pic above look about the same size as on my false bottom.

Just measured, they are 2mm exactly.

 

[Manxnorton]

Hi pal,
This is another option.
Fil can tell you what the fitting are and measurements etc.
Due to me having 'learning Dificulties' from illness it take a long time to try n explain..lol took ova two years just to read n write again ha ha!!
Hope the pic serve the purpose?
Look like the same type of mash tun.






One thing with this setup me and Fil can say is works really well
Hope it helps

 

[Dutto]

thanks for quick reply, what i am hoping to do is place a sheet of SS mesh in and thus wanted to know what size os mesh holes

Er... I figured that one out; which is why I suggested the 2mm holes. :thumb:

 

[Fil]

Odd visual effect in the pic with the braid and FB fitted Bri

Fwiw Brians Tun pictured above uses a polycarbonate sheet circa 2-3mm thick

its a snug fit with the tun wall and its holes are just over 1mm in diameter spaced in a grid with an inch plus distance between holes, The legs are lead free brass screws securing 15mm pipe clips.

Reason i know its polycarb and not perspex is after brewing successfully without a single stuck mash with the above FB/Tun I upped my volume and kit and decided to make a similar FB from perspex. HA!!

well it lasted one brew, the perspex came out of the tun somewhat warped and
troubled by the 20kg of dry grain and water it had supported for 90 mins, and when it slipped from my hand only a few inches above the worktop it landed and shattered

However if your kitted up to work with SS sheet Go for it, I ended up buying a 2mm perforated plate cut to size from Mrlard. iirc you want something thats at least 30% open ..

Dont forget to post pics of the fabrication for all us brewporn junkies

 

[Dutto]

On the subject of perforating metal and/or polycarbonate sheets, Lidl had some great "step" drill bits on sale last week and there were still a few examples on the shelves at my local store today!

The very large one should also be good for milling out a hole for a tap in a SS boiler. :thumb: