Fermenters

Someone recently asked me for pictures and a description of the fermenting vessels I'm using; since I like showing off my bling, here are a few pics.



This is an overview shot of my keg-fermenter. It's exactly what it sounds like: A keg that has been modified to be a fermenter. Since the keg doesn't have a conical bottom, a racking arm is essential for leaving the trub, dry-hops, and lees behind. The whole thing is sanitary welded thanks to Mike Carty of Derry, NH. The kegs are also legally acquired, as I understand it. Big props to the man.

Next up:



Here's a shot of the racking arm. The rod indicates position, and can be used to manipulate the arm while draining to ensure I take everything BUT the aforementioned un-wanted cruft at the bottom. The large, bulging piece at the center is where the arm clamps to the fermenter, and the drain valve clamps to the arm.

And now:



Here you see the arm clamped into the fermenter, and the drain valve clamped to the arm. The valve is a 3piece 304 stainless ball valve with a threaded TC male connector. Nothing too fancy.

As far as co2 considerations:



Here, you see a platform TC opening, useful for cleaning the fermenter, followed by a 3/4" barbed blowoff tube attachment. Again, all tri-clamped, and all done with beautiful sanitary welds.