RIMS for THIS dummy!

[brewindruid]

Okay, I understand everything about the pros and cons, I understand the theory and function, what I don't seem to get is the RIMS tube design and placement. I've seen some with two elements, some with one, stainless/copper, yadda yadda yadda. where is the rims tube suppossed to be attached to the MLT. Why are some putting it in toolboxes?. This is what is confusing me. Why isn't it just hardlined to the MLT? Is there an ideal set up? I feel like a moron for not getting this part of the system...HELP.

My thoughts go this way, three way valve from bottom of MLT to grant, grant feeds pump, pump feeds RIMS tube via flex hose, RIMS tube is vertical and fixed to MLT via QD at top of MLT, QD feeds to line inside MLT which feeds a manifold that sets on top of grain bed, floating as it were. Will this not work?

[Kbar]

Yes, it will, but why not just pump out of the MLT (Watch your flow rate as you do not want to compact the grain, slow and easy)?

I pump out of the MLT to the RIMS (Single 1500W element 0.75F/minute ramp rate, triclamp based system from Brewer's Hardware) back to the top of the grain bed via a manifold that delivers the mash back to 3 different areas of the grain bed to prevent temperature stratification.

Use a single PID controller ($35 from eBay) and a thermocouple in the top of the RIMS system.

I am vertical with the RIMS right now, but horizontal prevents draining of the RIMS tube and burnout of the element. Had this happen once. Unless you can run below the MLT fluid level. I can not right now with my setup.

I have used CPVC and Stainless pipe thread based tubes. Love this one from Brewer's Hardware. Amazing. They also sell the element housing that has a ground screw built in. Makes me feel safer us theirs.

[brewindruid]

Thnx Kbar this is exactly what I was looking for! Gonna go with the stuff from BH. He doesn't do anything halfass, and I like supporting that!