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BIAB Confusion

switzead

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Jul 24, 2009
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Corpus Christi TX
I was thinking about this BIAB thing.  I dont understand why the efficiency would be any lower than a double batch sparge, IF....., you use the same water to grain ratio and keep a constant and correct temperature in the mash kettle, then remove the bag and place into another kettle at sparge temps, let rest, remove and drain.  Do 2 of these sparge/rinses and move forward.  My double batch sparges have been over 75% everytime.  I just dont see the difference.

Any help/comments welcome.  Plan on trying this on Saturday.
 
I think it's the confining nature of a bag.  Most batchers stir in the infusions; with a bag the penetration of the water thoroughly around each grain must suffer at least somewhat. 
 
Switzead,

For BIAB their is no real sparge. You start with your whole water amount in the pot. Example 8 gallons. That's all you need. When you pull the bag out you let it hang above a bucket and then dump the drippings back into the pot. I do a quick rinse of the grain just to be sure to get it all. But that's not needed I am just greedy!

The water to grain ratio is not needed. The bag is open and needs to be stirred and the height adjusted to keep the mash close to get the enzyme action. Typical efficiency is near 80% because you can grind the grain finer because you don't have to worry about stuck sparges because you don't sparge!
See Here http://www.stempski.com/biab.php

BIAB website http://www.biabrewer.info/
 
I have a little claustrophobia,  I can't brew in a bag.




 
CR,
    I agree, if your IN a bag it could be scary. I brew "Half in the Bag" all the time. I forget the Irish moss and a few late additions of hops but I don't mind. I love BIAB. Maybe this is why I like it?

http://www.stempski.com/biab.php
 
Does "three sheets to the wind" count?  :)
 
MaltLicker,

All (drinking while brewing) anecdotes apply to me. I know that I should wait until my temps are hit and my hops are added. I just feel that denying myself a beer is just not right! My beers may suffer but I don't. Maybe they should change BIAB from (Brew In A Bag) to (Bobs In A Bag)?
 
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