boil volumes

[Unclewillis]

im trying an all grain for the first time and Im not sure how to determine the water/boil volume after the mash out. it will be a 5 gallon batch.

Thanks in advance

 

[Golddiggie]

Depends on your system/setup.

I use BeerSmith to get my pre-boil volume. I mash at the ratio I want (usually in the 1.25-1.35 qt/# ratio range) then sparge with enough to get to the pre-boil volume (also provided by BeerSmith). To get the target amount going into primary/fermenter, you'll also need to know your boi-off rate, and other losses. I typically want 6 gallons going into keg (filling two 3 gallon kegs) which means I get 6.75-7 gallons into primary. With all the other losses, amount left in keggle, in hoses, plate chiller, etc., I usually end 1-2 quarts above that.

 

[menerdari]

Here is a calculator I use. You do need to know what your boil off rate is.
http://www.brew365.com/mash_sparge_water_calculator.php