Cloudy runnings from sparge

[agentgonzo]

Recently I've been running into problems with the runnings from the mash tun recently being really cloudy. In some cases, the runnings are coming out looking like a cup of tea! Does anyone have any ideas why this may happen. I've been recirculating the runnings more and more (in some cases probably about 8-12 pints) and it strips out the husk particles and dicently sized matter, but doesn't make the runnings clear. Does anyone know what may cause this and why it isn't clearing?

[mysterio]

Are you using a different brand/variety of malt? Maybe lager malt or Golden Promise?

Are you doing a starch test with iodine & how long are you mashing for?

Usually it's nothing to worry about, but I would start with a starch test to make sure you're getting full conversion if you're not already. Some types of malt just give cloudy run off but will clear up in the kettle with decent copper finings.

[agentgonzo]

I'm using Maris Otter. Mash is normally 60-90min. I don't do a starch test on all brews as all the starch tests that I've ever done at the hour mark have resulted in a negative (no starch present). I do them every so often, but not normally, so don't presume that I'm getting non-conversion.

Wasn't too worried about it being a problem as I normally get a decent hot break in the kettle and add irish moss to be on the safe side. Beer turns out either slightly hazy or totally clear - just wondering about it that's all. Thanks for the info.

[mysterio]

Malts can vary batch to batch season to season, so it's always wise to do a test if you're unsure.

[Whorst]

Perhaps your lauter tun is letting flour pass? I recirculate about 2.5 gallons total, and by the end the wort is pretty clear. I'll have a picture up shortly, as I'm brewing now.

[flything]

When you say 'clear' what do you mean?

When I voulauf (recirculate the runnings) it's rarely if ever clear, I do it till there is no chunks of husk or grain but then just let it run. Doubt I ever recirculate 10-12 pints, maybe 4-5?

Beers seems to turn out ok

[Whorst]

In the pic below, the first runnings are clear. There's nothing in suspension, and you can see the bottom of the boiler. I think you need to recirculate more. Get yourself a glass pitcher, or a plastic one and fill it up several times. Gently pour it across your grain bed.

[ColinKeb]

I run my sparge off after about 6 ltrs have been recirculated and it comes out slightly couldy to start with, all this drops out in the boil and cold break. My beer is clear as it can be and no off flavours etc.