We are big fans of using a direct-fire mash tun here at BrewGeeks. Its main benefit is the ability to raise temperature during the mash and is particularly useful for step mashes where rests are done at different temperatures.
Be careful though, because step mashes and raising the temp for mashout can present a problem for BIABers. A heavy bag filled with grain sitting directly on the bottom may produce scorch marks that are a PITA to clean. Aubiecat has a great solution for this that doesn't limit circulation. Check out his design in the link below.
"I have been wanting to get away from using the steamer basket on my BIAB rig because I don't get efficient circulation during mashing. I happened to acquire some heavy 1/2" stainless mesh from work and I was all gung ho about making a mesh basket to solve my problems.
After contemplating all the work it was going to take to make a basket, I thought why not try to fashion a false bottom instead. My wort chiller can sit on top of the false bottom pretty easy as well.
Knowing the mesh alone wouldn't be strong enough by itself, I had a 1/2" wide flange cut from 1/16" thick stainless steel. The flange covers the ends of the mesh so the bag won't get snagged. The two flat areas on the flange are due to the steamer basket lip on the Bayou Classic pot." [Read More]
Be careful though, because step mashes and raising the temp for mashout can present a problem for BIABers. A heavy bag filled with grain sitting directly on the bottom may produce scorch marks that are a PITA to clean. Aubiecat has a great solution for this that doesn't limit circulation. Check out his design in the link below.
"I have been wanting to get away from using the steamer basket on my BIAB rig because I don't get efficient circulation during mashing. I happened to acquire some heavy 1/2" stainless mesh from work and I was all gung ho about making a mesh basket to solve my problems.
After contemplating all the work it was going to take to make a basket, I thought why not try to fashion a false bottom instead. My wort chiller can sit on top of the false bottom pretty easy as well.
Knowing the mesh alone wouldn't be strong enough by itself, I had a 1/2" wide flange cut from 1/16" thick stainless steel. The flange covers the ends of the mesh so the bag won't get snagged. The two flat areas on the flange are due to the steamer basket lip on the Bayou Classic pot." [Read More]
