5 gallon batches in a 12 gallon fermenter?

[allin]

Does anybody have an opinions on fermenting 5 gallon batches in a 12 gallon fermenter?

I could probably purge with Co2 to reduce oxidation, but I'm not sure if there would still be too much headspace etc?

Thanks for your replies!

~allin

[DannyW]

No worries, go for it! Lot of places ferment in open vessels, so their headspace is essentially infinite.

[Brew Engineer]

Don't do it. If you've got a 12 gallon fermentor, send it to me and I'll take care of it for you. Whatever you do, DON"T PUT BEER IN THERE!!!


So, if you didn't fall for that, you'll have no problems, don't worry...

[allin]

(edit: moving to Equipment section)

Ha!...I don't have one yet, but there may be a used one for sale nearby.

I already sent a list of questions to the seller:

(Manufacturer, condition, any rust, are the valves stainless, does it have seperate port for taking samples, is it one piece or does it have a welded seam?)

I've seen some "affordable" ones out on Ebay etc, but I dont know enough about conicals yet.

Since I haven't heard back yet, what else should I be looking for in a used stainless fermenter? What would be desirable, and what would indicate that I wasted my gas driving over to look?

Thanks again!!!!!!!!!