|
Some of these posts are very old and might contain outdated information. You may wish to search for newer posts instead.
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler 4
#14270167 - 04/11/11 12:03 AM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
Here's the big late winter project around here. The old 55 gallon drum boiler which was entirely hand controlled had to go. It was taking up way too much of our time babysitting it to adjust pressure up and down constantly. Filling it every day by hand with a water hose got old fast in -30F weather!
But, the new one is up and fully operational now. It has a water feed valve that keep the water at the exact set-point. If the water drops 1" below the set-point, the low water cutoff switch shuts down the burner. A vaporstat controller maintains pressure right at 1 psi by cycling the gas valve to raise and lower the flame as required.
Here's a few pictures, more or less in order, starting with last summer when we built the awning and concrete slab for it to set on.
The location:

After the concrete slab was poured and set, I built two supports using concrete blocks with caps made out of 1/4" thick steel plate, framed with 1" angle iron. These are to support the weight of the boiler and sterilizer drum(s). The picture on the right below is the setup as we originally built it last summer, minus wind breaks and insulation.

The New Boiler. Work started with welding(brazing) the fittings for the boiler water feed valve. Note unions placed immediately after leaving the boiler tank. This makes disassembly for later repair much easier.

Once fittings were welded to the 55 gallon drum, it was set in place and put together. Note the concrete blocks around the burner. These serve as windbreaks, but still let sufficient combustion air in through the cracks. The half-block directly under the sight-glass is easily removable for lighting the burner.

The single regulator that served us for almost 2 years was replaced with a dual regulator and electric solenoid valve setup. The electrically operated gas valve is controlled by the Honeywell Vaporstat. The vaporstat control is calibrated in square ounces of pressure, with 16 ounces being the highest setting, which gives 1 psi.

After testing, the unit was fully insulated and then shrouded with sheet metal. The bottom part was lined with fire bricks, which direct the heat up along the sides of the boiler for maximum transfer of heat to the water. There is no part of the boiler anywhere which is too hot to touch, even right where the exhaust escapes from the fire brick.

We're getting ready to build a second sterilizer barrel to go next to the current one, which will let us sterilize 200 pounds of substrate at a time, or 300 pounds at once if I build a third sterilizer. I'm sure this boiler can supply steam to three sterilizers and still be able to heat the grow room in -30F temperatures. It's a beast, and with all the insulation, extremely efficient. RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
TheShroomJew23
The Chemist


Registered: 11/29/07
Posts: 1,611
Loc: Temple
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14270277 - 04/11/11 12:27 AM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
Awesome setup RR, did you do all the work yourself or have someone licensed install it.
--------------------
 You will be missed
|
eLShaMukO



Registered: 04/28/10
Posts: 1,685
Loc: far away
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14270459 - 04/11/11 01:49 AM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
Excellent work man 
what material is protecting the insulation from the outside ?
--------------------
|
badman


Registered: 06/14/06
Posts: 4,039
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: eLShaMukO]
#14270788 - 04/11/11 06:12 AM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|

Very nice.
|
EvilMushroom666
Heretic




Registered: 11/18/09
Posts: 10,289
Loc: Canada
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: TheShroomJew23]
#14270944 - 04/11/11 07:25 AM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|

Awesome work as always RR, thanks for sharing some of the details of your project with us. I can see it coming in handy when I finally get the chance to build my own boiler.
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: TheShroomJew23]
#14270950 - 04/11/11 07:27 AM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
Quote:
TheShroomJew23 said: Awesome setup RR, did you do all the work yourself or have someone licensed install it.
I did everything. There's only 9 people living in the 100 square miles around our farm, so no licenses required. I'm hoping to build a second boiler this coming summer, which will be bio-fuel fired.
The material around the outside of the insulation on the boiler is sheet metal. It came from the lumber yard, sold as 30" flashing material. RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
FractalXplora
Grainiack




Registered: 02/11/06
Posts: 2,494
Loc: UK
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14271258 - 04/11/11 09:14 AM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|


looks great, what a setup, top class!
--------------------

|
GourmetShiitake
Stranger


Registered: 03/15/09
Posts: 129
Last seen: 9 years, 2 months
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14271523 - 04/11/11 10:13 AM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
''I'm hoping to build a second boiler this coming summer, which will be bio-fuel fired.''
This part caught my attention. What do you have in mind ? Wood ? Biogas ?
|
BlueLightRain
WhoaUnbrokenChain



Registered: 01/14/11
Posts: 354
Last seen: 9 years, 26 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14271647 - 04/11/11 10:53 AM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
Quote:
RogerRabbit said: The New Boiler. Work started with welding(brazing) the fittings for the boiler water feed valve. Note unions placed immediately after leaving the boiler tank. This makes disassembly for later repair much easier.

I love welding. This picture has it all Oxyacetylene with brazing rods? Any more info your welding setup would be great. And did you oxyacetylene the boiler cage or mig/stick weld it?
|
mojoganjaman
Stranger


Registered: 07/27/10
Posts: 166
Loc: lost in the delta quadran...
Last seen: 9 years, 4 months
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: BlueLightRain]
#14272265 - 04/11/11 01:00 PM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
where do you source your drums???...did they contain foodstuffs previously...I need a couple but have no idea where to start looking...I'm sure old fuel oil drums would be counter productive...thanks for any help
mojo
-------------------- if the dog hadn't stopped for a shit he woulda caught the rabbit
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: BlueLightRain]
#14272381 - 04/11/11 01:23 PM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
Quote:
BlueLightRain said: Oxyacetylene with brazing rods? Any more info your welding setup would be great. And did you oxyacetylene the boiler cage or mig/stick weld it?
Yes, I used brass because it's more flexible. I was afraid with the expansion and contraction from repeated heat cycles, the difference in temper between the sheet metal drum and the black iron fittings would fail if I used a stick rod.
I also used brazing rod on the first boiler and it lasted 18 months and was still working fine, no leaks. When the rest of the snow melts, I'm going to set up my video camera on a tripod and destroy it by banging on the fittings. I want to see how much corrosion occurred during that 18 months by finding out how hard it will be to break apart.
The 2" cage for the boiler was stick welded using 7018 rods and DC. RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
freespeech
disciple



Registered: 12/12/08
Posts: 1,745
Loc: PNW
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: mojoganjaman]
#14272507 - 04/11/11 01:50 PM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
Quote:
mojoganjaman said: where do you source your drums???...did they contain foodstuffs previously...I need a couple but have no idea where to start looking...I'm sure old fuel oil drums would be counter productive
http://www.shroomery.org/forums/showflat.php/Number/12068373#12068373
Quote:
RogerRabbit said: The first thing to look for when getting drums is that they're not toxic. My green barrel, which is the boiler, originally contained olive oil, and the blue barrels all had pear juice concentrate.
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: freespeech]
#14274599 - 04/11/11 08:11 PM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
Quote:
mojoganjaman said: where do you source your drums???...did they contain foodstuffs previously...I need a couple but have no idea where to start looking...I'm sure old fuel oil drums would be counter productive
Search online for a source in your local area. I get mine in Spokane, WA from earthworks recycling. Scroll to the bottom of that page for the barrel selection. Only use food grade. RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
mojoganjaman
Stranger


Registered: 07/27/10
Posts: 166
Loc: lost in the delta quadran...
Last seen: 9 years, 4 months
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14276797 - 04/12/11 07:38 AM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
I'd like to think soy based ink drums would work...thoughts????
mojo
-------------------- if the dog hadn't stopped for a shit he woulda caught the rabbit
|
Mike711
friend


Registered: 05/22/10
Posts: 209
Loc: PNW
Last seen: 9 years, 4 months
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: mojoganjaman]
#14277085 - 04/12/11 09:29 AM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
thanks for making it automated. i was having a conversation with this guy the other day he was whining about having to check the pressure all the time. i told him to look into the automated shut off but hes lazy and blew me off. once again you have confirmed my theory with practical application.
i might be wrong but i thought you said that the last setup you used ran between 2 and 4 psi. what would be the difference in time you have to run since your running it at 1 psi now it if any.
Quote:
mojoganjaman said: I'd like to think soy based ink drums would work...thoughts????
mojo
every time wonder if things like this are usable i ask myself would i eat it and no i would not eat soy based ink or any ink
|
Wise Toad


Registered: 06/08/10
Posts: 2,690
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: Mike711]
#14277184 - 04/12/11 10:01 AM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: Wise Toad]
#14277303 - 04/12/11 10:34 AM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
Food grade barrels have a coating inside which resists rust and corrosion. Regardless if a non-food grade barrel had toxins in it or not, if it's not food grade, it won't last as long due to the missing coating. RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
aris
Feline Bovine


Registered: 07/20/10
Posts: 715
Loc: dl
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14282371 - 04/13/11 06:10 AM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
Very cool. Thanks for sharing!!!
Edited by aris (04/23/11 11:55 AM)
|
Alkaloids
3,4,5-trimethoxyphenethylamine



Registered: 11/15/98
Posts: 743
Loc: pubis mons
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: aris]
#14284213 - 04/13/11 02:09 PM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
sharp looking new set-up RR. I don't know anything about welding, but i know a guy who could either do that or show me how to. Thanks for posting.
--------------------
|
bonnahoo
A Friend



Registered: 03/06/06
Posts: 371
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: Alkaloids]
#14285740 - 04/13/11 06:40 PM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
So, this is where the magic happens, huh? Nice place man... your house and property look amazing. The boiler looks nice too
|
lionsman
Stranger

Registered: 08/02/09
Posts: 102
Loc: UK
Last seen: 11 years, 11 months
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: bonnahoo]
#14289280 - 04/14/11 10:41 AM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
Lovely work, I like a good home made solution.
|
kotter


Registered: 01/15/11
Posts: 210
Last seen: 4 years, 8 months
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14296041 - 04/15/11 02:48 PM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
Nice idea and nicer modifications. I notice you got rid of your old sight level. Did the new one come with your controller?
|
Puma
surfing when I can



Registered: 10/08/09
Posts: 319
Loc: BC
Last seen: 2 months, 6 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: kotter]
#14296406 - 04/15/11 04:08 PM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
That is truly awesome, RR. Now you'll have more time to go wild mushroom hunting while the machine babysits itself. It's nice that you documented the previous, simpler incarnation as well, which makes it a more manageable challenge for those of us without your level of engineering skills (i.e. 99.999 % of mycophiles). This is truly a masterpiece. It must be satisfying to have such a practical machine to power your mushroom farm! And for a fraction of the cost of a factory-built industrial boiler, which probably wouldn't be tailored to your specific application anyways.
Here's a picture of my latest pressure cooker build, made from a 100 gallon-capacity propane tank. It's far easier to load than my previous tall, skinny PC, and was about as large as I figured I could make it without moving to a more fuel-intensive burner. It's been tested to 30 PSI (at which point the secondary relief valve opens) and I'm currently testing different gaskets as it should hold a vacuum upon cooling, and then there's a valve to allow the slow entry of filtered air.

Not nearly as awesome as what you've created, but it had to be something portable as I don't own any land. Seeing what you keep doing with your installations is a big inspiration to find a permanent site. Keep it up, thanks for posting and best of luck as you ramp up for the warm season.
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: Puma]
#14298097 - 04/15/11 09:25 PM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
Quote:
Puma said:

Now that's cool! I'll bet it doesn't take too much gas to run it once it's up to pressure.
Don't take unicorn bags much above 20 psi or they'll tend to fail more often. I think they're supposed to be good to 260F or so.
Quote:
kotter said:
I notice you got rid of your old sight level. Did the new one come with your controller?
No, everything was ordered separate. The old sight 'glass' was actually plastic tubing which would cloud up in cold weather and be unreadable. This time, I put a proper boiler sight glass setup on it. The valves have ball checks in them, so if I accidentally break the glass when the boiler is under pressure, they seal up and don't leak. RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
makaveli8x8
Stranger

Registered: 02/28/06
Posts: 21,636
Last seen: 7 years, 7 months
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: Puma]
#14298208 - 04/15/11 09:48 PM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
what did u put that propane tank inside of? and im also curious how u did the seal between the tank and the metal top? im also curious how RR seals up his rig as well like how he keeps the lid on his
anyways really nice work guys
--------------------
  We were sent to hell for eternity Ø h® We play on earth to pass the time Over-population the root of all Evil-brings the Elites Closer to the gates.
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: makaveli8x8]
#14298243 - 04/15/11 09:56 PM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
My boiler is a bung type with no lid. It has a 3/4" NPT and a 2" NPT opening.
My sterilization drum lid is held on with the DOT type metal ring, which is ten times thicker than standard barrel rings, with a 3/4" bolt instead of a 5/16 bolt and nut. The seal was made by stuffing wax paper into the groove in the lid. RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
SwampTromper


Registered: 02/02/11
Posts: 31
Loc: Florida Swamp
Last seen: 12 years, 8 months
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14298305 - 04/15/11 10:09 PM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
Your variety of skills and attention to detail are impressive. Out of curiosity, what did you do for a living to acquire all those skill sets?
|
13shrooms
Lightning Shaman



Registered: 01/01/09
Posts: 26,719
Loc: IN ETHERS TORSION FIELD
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: SwampTromper]
#14298660 - 04/15/11 11:22 PM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
--------------------
A M U Click here ^ for the AMU forum VVV AMUs Free Active/Edible/Exotic Spore Print or Syringe or Edible Culture Trade Thread VVV "Man is the sex organ of the machine world" ~ Marshall McLuhan
|
Ferg
Tenderfoot



Registered: 09/16/10
Posts: 58
Loc: Oregon
Last seen: 12 years, 8 months
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14304951 - 04/17/11 07:26 AM (12 years, 9 months ago) |
|
|
This is awesome! I want to build something like this myself but I'm afraid it would be frightfully expensive.
|
Doctor_Inoc
Vintage Hand
Registered: 04/30/11
Posts: 646
Loc:
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14498558 - 05/23/11 11:22 AM (12 years, 8 months ago) |
|
|
Quote:
When the rest of the snow melts, I'm going to set up my video camera on a tripod and destroy it by banging on the fittings. I want to see how much corrosion occurred during that 18 months by finding out how hard it will be to break apart.
Snow melt yet?
Quote:
It's nice that you documented the previous, simpler incarnation as well, which makes it a more manageable challenge for those of us without your level of engineering skills (i.e. 99.999 % of mycophiles).
Concurred. I'v noticed this as well.
RR, Is your knowledge of engineering self-taught or did you go to school?
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: Doctor_Inoc]
#14499595 - 05/23/11 03:15 PM (12 years, 8 months ago) |
|
|
I have two engineering degrees. One in electrical and one in mechanical engineering. However, 99% of what I do on an engineering or construction basis is self-taught. For example, mechanical engineers learn to read graphs to know what size I-beams are necessary to support a bridge truss, but they don't teach you to weld. An electrical engineer learns to draw circuits and calculate loads, but they don't teach you to bend conduit or strip wire, etc. RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
shopdropper
Professional Psychonaut


Registered: 03/13/06
Posts: 1,623
Loc: Sailing the sea of cheese
Last seen: 6 months, 25 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14499620 - 05/23/11 03:21 PM (12 years, 8 months ago) |
|
|
I'm not an engineer I got taught allthe calculations andgot the hands on with wireing and conduit (easy shit anyway). I have an associates from triangle tech. I looked intoo engineering it was mostly electronics and microprocesser stuff. Shoulda did it, it was only 2 more years of school.
-------------------- DON'T TRY THIS AT HOME: no guarantees can be made about the accuracy of the information herein. The information dicussed in these posts is purely hypothetical, and for intelectual purposes only. Any similarity between internet chat and real life is pure coincidence.
|
Mikeallojee
Coolaid smile



Registered: 10/02/09
Posts: 897
Loc: SW WA
Last seen: 10 years, 11 months
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: shopdropper]
#14501808 - 05/23/11 10:27 PM (12 years, 8 months ago) |
|
|
Im curious why you went to a dual valve set up? From the picture it looks like only one side goes through the silinoid. Would you kindly break it down a little more for this layman? myc
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: Mikeallojee]
#14502156 - 05/23/11 11:57 PM (12 years, 8 months ago) |
|
|
There's two pressure regulators because the one in series with the gas valve is set to a higher setting than the other, which is the 'idle' setting. Once lit, the burner runs at a level controlled by the idle regulator. When the pressure switch calls for heat, the high pressure regulator controls the burner. They're in parallel with each other. RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
showup
Stranger
Registered: 04/24/11
Posts: 42
Last seen: 1 year, 3 months
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14534590 - 05/30/11 06:37 AM (12 years, 8 months ago) |
|
|
Very good one.
Quote:
The electrically operated gas valve is controlled by the Honeywell Vaporstat. The vaporstat control is calibrated in square ounces of pressure, with 16 ounces being the highest setting, which gives 1 psi. RR
You mean the Vaporstat senses the steam pressure to modulate the gas valve right? Isn't 1 psi steam pressure is sub-atmospheric pressure? Do you mean the system operate at sub-atmospheric pressure only?
Showup
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: showup]
#14534981 - 05/30/11 09:35 AM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
When we say one pound of pressure, it's assumed we're saying one pound above standard atmospheric. RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
Aleon
The Power of Our Origins



Registered: 05/26/11
Posts: 1,127
Loc: Everywhere
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14535261 - 05/30/11 10:51 AM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
RR, YOU ARE INSANE! In a good way 
This setup is gr8, and a little beyond my skill level right now lol. Id love to get something similar going in the next year or two though. Right now i just pasteurize straw in 55gal drums, which is really low tech in comparison to this.
A question if ya dont mind: Have you ever made grain spawn in there? Or is 15 PSI needed to make the rye berries, for example, not contaminate.
One other thing, about 2 years ago i saw a few clips on youtube that you made, and they really helped me out as a beginner(especially the straw pasteurization in plastic totes and releasing steam from the grain after boiling it in water b4 it goes into the jars); i just want to thank you for that, and let you know of the positive impact you have created on me and im sure others. My micro mushroom farm is where i now invest most of my time and money; i always want to share my appreciation for people who are getting the cultivation data out there, because cultivation of gourmet fungi can be so fufilling.
-------------------- Mushroom medicines available at: www.swordandshieldwellness.com
|
showup
Stranger
Registered: 04/24/11
Posts: 42
Last seen: 1 year, 3 months
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14536584 - 05/30/11 03:41 PM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
O....I got it.
Quote:
It has a water feed valve that keep the water at the exact set-point. If the water drops 1" below the set-point, the low water cutoff switch shuts down the burner.
What kind of water feed valve is it? I would appreciate if you can post a link to it. Thanks.
showup
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: Aleon]
#14537141 - 05/30/11 06:27 PM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
Quote:
showup said:
What kind of water feed valve is it? I would appreciate if you can post a link to it. Thanks.
showup
McDonnell Miller 247-2
Quote:
Aleon said:
A question if ya dont mind: Have you ever made grain spawn in there? Or is 15 PSI needed to make the rye berries, for example, not contaminate.
Yes, I've used it to sterilize rye berries with 100% success. However, it was just a couple of test runs since I have a few AA-75X sterilizers for grain. The drum sterilizer is used for supplemented sawdust. RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
Aleon
The Power of Our Origins



Registered: 05/26/11
Posts: 1,127
Loc: Everywhere
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14537447 - 05/30/11 07:37 PM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
Nice, large grain spawn runs in there could be interesting.
Also, do you just remove the bags once sterilized into open air, then into your lab? Or Do u somehow take them out in a hepa filtered room? Im just wondering
-------------------- Mushroom medicines available at: www.swordandshieldwellness.com
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: Aleon]
#14537741 - 05/30/11 08:37 PM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
They're pushed across our yard in a wheelbarrow to the house, where my lab is. There's no need to keep them in sterile air if you put tyvek sleeves in the bags as shown in the sawdust/woodchip video. RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
showup
Stranger
Registered: 04/24/11
Posts: 42
Last seen: 1 year, 3 months
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14539263 - 05/31/11 04:55 AM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
Thanks for posting the link for the feed valve. I see the price of is about $720. So, your automated boiler would have costed you over $1000. If so, what advantages do you see in it other than the full range of customization options over an old, previously used commercial unit available in market?
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: showup]
#14539556 - 05/31/11 07:04 AM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
A commercial unit delivered here costs over $1K in shipping. A new one which will do what mine does is over $10K. If you buy a boiler that was removed after years of maintenance problems, you're taking over what somebody already gave up on. In addition, boilers are often ruined by shock cooling, and you won't know until you buy it, get it shipped and installed, only to find you have junk.
You'll still need the controls for feed water and burner control, because they're not generally shipped with boilers, even when new. Most shops keep the feed water valve from their old boiler and install it on the new one.
This isn't cheap. It cost over $2K to build this boiler, including $600 in U.S. made stainless steel ball valves because I was tired of constantly replacing the made in china valves you can get at hardware and home improvement stores. RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
Aleon
The Power of Our Origins



Registered: 05/26/11
Posts: 1,127
Loc: Everywhere
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14539643 - 05/31/11 07:41 AM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
Thanks for the info RR, keep up the good work
-------------------- Mushroom medicines available at: www.swordandshieldwellness.com
|
showup
Stranger
Registered: 04/24/11
Posts: 42
Last seen: 1 year, 3 months
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14540522 - 05/31/11 12:52 PM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
Thanks for the lot of info RR. It will be of more use to me and many others over here if you can post a sketch with specifications of each part of your boiler along with small description and a link about each valve you have used. This will serve as a simple guide for a DIY smart boiler. This kind of technical sketch will help us to follow your footpath to make one at our end. Sorry to bother you on this, but it will be of real use to many of us.
showup
|
showup
Stranger
Registered: 04/24/11
Posts: 42
Last seen: 1 year, 3 months
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: showup]
#14547811 - 06/01/11 08:26 PM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
Log in to view attachment
Here is some useful info on pressure withstanding capacity of 55 gallon drums:
Slight signs of bulging ~6 psi Significant bulging of bottom and top (can be “rocked” because of bulging bottoms) ~8 or >8 psi Self-vents at ~14 psi
Below 4 to 6 psi internal pressure, flex of the drum lid 1/2 inch or more is possible. At 6 psi and above, it is difficult to depress the lid using ordinary palm heel force.
Have a look at the attachment file for more info...
showup
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: showup]
#14547927 - 06/01/11 08:59 PM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
Thanks for that file. I've been looking for that sort of information, mainly regarding the structural integrity of drums under pressure.
It's hard to imagine injuries from the lids flying off though. As soon as you start releasing the ring bolt, the lid should vent.  RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
showup
Stranger
Registered: 04/24/11
Posts: 42
Last seen: 1 year, 3 months
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14549366 - 06/02/11 04:17 AM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
With these facts in mind it may be safe and effective to operate these self made boilers at around 4 psi if one is keen in reducing the pasteurization time. If we do so, it may be good idea to change the drums once in couple of years to avoid any contributions associated with metal fatigue/loss of strength/deterioration over period of time.
showup
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: showup]
#14549685 - 06/02/11 06:59 AM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
The system this thread describes operates at 1 psi for 8 hours. There's no need to go above that. RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
Chad1
Stranger

Registered: 12/02/10
Posts: 279
Loc: USA
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14556871 - 06/03/11 06:20 PM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
RR,
Did you run 1/4 inch pipe for your gas?
Thanks Chad
|
mycoelf
Agent Of Chaos



Registered: 06/26/09
Posts: 555
Loc: hyperspace
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: Chad1]
#14559433 - 06/04/11 10:11 AM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
-------------------- Mycoelf Sterility is a process that can be likened unto infinity, which is a long walk, the closer to the end you start before beginning, the more achievable the goal of infinity becomes. Remember, cleanliness in next to goddessness
      
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: mycoelf]
#14559613 - 06/04/11 11:12 AM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
It's 3/4" pipe right up to the controls, and then it reduces to 1/4" for the regulators and burner. RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
Doctor_Inoc
Vintage Hand
Registered: 04/30/11
Posts: 646
Loc:
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14559633 - 06/04/11 11:17 AM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
Roger, this is bad-ass.. Did that snow melt yet so you can break stuff yet? I'm intrigued to see the wear and tear of the unit after the amount of time it's been in use when you bust it up. Plus I like to see shit get demolished.
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: Doctor_Inoc]
#14560505 - 06/04/11 03:05 PM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
Yea, but I'm a bit busy. I'll get around to it. Today is our first 70F day, so it's finally warming up. RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
x7x_x7x
x7x, my problem child.




Registered: 05/05/07
Posts: 3,816
Loc: buenos aires
Last seen: 1 day, 23 hours
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14560701 - 06/04/11 03:50 PM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
really a nice work 
name of the black device? thanks!
|
Doctor_Inoc
Vintage Hand
Registered: 04/30/11
Posts: 646
Loc:
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14560836 - 06/04/11 04:27 PM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
^^ That looks to me like some sort of compressing device (a compressor). Not sure though. The man'll be through in just a few minutes to answer all of our "inane" questions in just a few. 
Quote:
RogerRabbit said: Yea, but I'm a bit busy. I'll get around to it. Today is our first 70F day, so it's finally warming up. RR
Can't wait for that snow to melt and see the destruction. I know you'r a busy dude so please, take your time and DESTROY WHEN READY. All I ask is that you please, post results. Super bonus fat score if you video document the destruction. Thanks.
EDIT TO ADD, cool job, chad1.
Edited by Doctor_Inoc (06/04/11 04:36 PM)
|
Chad1
Stranger

Registered: 12/02/10
Posts: 279
Loc: USA
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14560851 - 06/04/11 04:32 PM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
Black thing is a water feed valve
Quote:
RogerRabbit said:
Quote:
showup said:
What kind of water feed valve is it? I would appreciate if you can post a link to it. Thanks.
showup
McDonnell Miller 247-2
|
Chad1
Stranger

Registered: 12/02/10
Posts: 279
Loc: USA
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: Chad1]
#14570293 - 06/06/11 04:42 PM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
I'm having trouble finding insulation. What type of insulation did you use, and where can i find some?
Thanks Chad
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: Chad1]
#14571087 - 06/06/11 07:26 PM (12 years, 7 months ago) |
|
|
Household fiberglass insulation from a building center or hardware store. RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
houdinihar
Adventurous Learner


Registered: 09/12/08
Posts: 1,111
Last seen: 3 years, 9 months
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit]
#14832098 - 07/27/11 09:45 AM (12 years, 6 months ago) |
|
|
RR-I have a couple of questions please-
1. At the beginning of your thread I noticed a simple propane burner setup to place under your drum. Do you have a self-igniting burner, or do have to go around back and light the burner when you want to? BTW--thank you for all this sharing. You have done a nice job.
2. I have seen sauna room steamers on Ebay with automated water inlet control at around 6-15 KW energy output that are low output pressure systems like yours. Other than being totally electric, could you list any major disadvantages or advantages compared to what you have built, RR? Even professional high output steam boilers I have just researched are often electric.
Thank you, houdinihar
|
RogerRabbit
Bans for Pleasure



Registered: 03/26/03
Posts: 42,214
Loc: Seattle
Last seen: 11 months, 4 days
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: houdinihar] 1
#14832462 - 07/27/11 10:58 AM (12 years, 6 months ago) |
|
|
I light the burner at the beginning of each cycle with a match or propane torch, etc.
If electricity is less expensive to produce steam in your area, that's the way to go. In my remote location, electricity is expensive, making propane slightly more attractive.
I'm in the process of building a bio-fuels boiler this summer, which hopefully I'll have operational by winter. I have an unlimited supply of dead and dry, partially burned wood from a nearby forest fire area that I can get free for the taking.
Adapting to whatever energy source is most reliable and cost efficient in the area you're working is key to financial success, since the profit margin in mushroom growing is small. RR
-------------------- Download Let's Grow Mushrooms semper in excretia sumus solim profundum variat "I've never had a failed experiment. I've only discovered 10,000 methods which do not work." Thomas Edison
|
houdinihar
Adventurous Learner


Registered: 09/12/08
Posts: 1,111
Last seen: 3 years, 9 months
|
Re: New Fully Automated 55 Gallon Drum Boiler [Re: RogerRabbit] 1
#14834463 - 07/27/11 06:02 PM (12 years, 6 months ago) |
|
|
thank you for your generous wisdom, RR.
houdinihar
|
|