Strike Temperature Calculator

Strike Water Temperature Formula:

\[ T_s = \frac{T_m \times (G + W) - T_g \times G}{W} \]

Mash Temperature (T_m):

°C

Grain Weight (G):

Water Weight (W):

Grain Temperature (T_g):

°C

Strike Water Temperature (T_s):

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1. What is a Strike Temperature Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the required temperature of strike water needed to achieve a desired mash temperature in brewing.

Purpose: It helps brewers and homebrewers calculate the exact water temperature needed to mix with grains to reach the target mash temperature.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ T_s = \frac{T_m \times (G + W) - T_g \times G}{W} \]

Where:

\( T_s \) — Strike water temperature (°C)
\( T_m \) — Desired mash temperature (°C)
\( G \) — Grain weight (kilograms)
\( W \) — Water weight (kilograms)
\( T_g \) — Grain temperature (°C)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the thermal mass of both the grains and water to calculate the exact water temperature needed to achieve the desired mash temperature.

3. Importance of Strike Temperature Calculation

Details: Accurate strike temperature ensures proper enzyme activity during mashing, which affects sugar extraction and ultimately the beer's flavor and alcohol content.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the desired mash temperature, grain weight, water weight, and grain temperature. All values must be valid numbers with water weight > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is strike temperature important in brewing?
A: The strike temperature determines the initial mash temperature, which affects enzyme activity and sugar conversion during the mashing process.

Q2: How do I measure grain temperature?
A: Measure the temperature of your grains just before mashing using a thermometer. This is typically the ambient temperature where grains were stored.

Q3: What's a typical mash temperature range?
A: Most beer styles mash between 63-70°C (145-158°F), with lower temperatures producing more fermentable sugars and higher temperatures creating more body.

Q4: Should I account for equipment heat loss?
A: Yes, many brewers add 1-3°C to the calculated strike temperature to compensate for heat loss to the mash tun.

Q5: How does water-to-grain ratio affect the calculation?
A: Higher water ratios require slightly lower strike temperatures as there's more water to absorb the grain's thermal mass.