In an effort to make a simple thing like stirring wort to create a whirlpool complex and expensive, I've decided to cobble together an automatic stirrer. Could I just pull the lid off the kettle and stir it with a spoon or just swirl my chiller around a bit? Sure I could, but that would require me getting my fat ass out of my chair on brew day, or at least leaning over a bit if I sit close enough. Horseshit I say.
So here's my plan. The stir paddle itself is just a 6x9 cutting board that I'll drill a hole in for a 1/4" threaded (because they're cheaper than flat) SS rod. The kettle lid will get drilled through the handle and the rod goes through that, using a set screw collar to keep the height consistent. Also attached to the lid is a small DC motor (geared to about 60 rpm) with a wheel on the motor and matching wheel on the rod (lock washers and nuts to hold it in place). Rather than have the wheels touch I'll probably run a band around them. The whole thing gets powered with a 5V phone charger or a 6V 4 AA battery pack. The whole thing will fit in the diameter of my immersion chiller, and with a couple spacers between the coils wort should move freely. Once the wort is cooled, I can pull the IC and let it stir for a few minutes longer to get all the crap to the center before racking.
This is the point I open myself to praise for my ingenious idea, or an utter shitting upon by my fellow s for bringing forth such a stupid and ultimately doomed concept. Or, hopefully, some constructive criticism pointing out where my plans can be improved. All input is welcome.
Parts:
Cutting Board: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0032AM0M6/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
SS Rod: http://www.homedepot.com/p/1-4-in-20-x-36-in-Stainless-Steel-Threaded-Rod-48000/100338194?N=12kx#.UXgIE7XvswA or something similar
Set Screw Collar: http://www.homedepot.com/p/Climax-1-4-inch-bore-Zinc-Plated-Mild-Steel-Set-Screw-Collar-C-025/203025014#.UXgUDrXvswA
DC Motor: http://www.hobbyengineering.com/H1415.html
Wheels: http://www.hobbyengineering.com/H1215.html
Shipping and Tax brings it out to about $35