Blichmann Fermenator 14 Gallon Tri-Clamp

I got this so called 14.5 gallon fermentor, not from Amazon, but from another dealer. It is made with good quality stainless steel casing and with excellent stainless steel valves for draining, and nice features on the lid. However, the 14.5 gallons advertised by the manufacturer (not Amazon) is completely misleading!!! With measurements, mathematical equations and a calculator, I calculated the total volume of this fermentor at a maximum of 13 gallons. Then, as a second test for verification, I simply filled it up (with the lid sealed on) while carefully measuring the amount of simple tap water until it just over-flowed from the top of the lid. I performed this measurement twice where the measurement came up to be exactly 13.5 gallons both times.The reason I wanted this fermentor was because I have fermenting recipes that require 13 gallons, so when I saw this as 14.5 gallons I thought this would work perfectly giving me 1.5 gallons of head space. After spending about $700 for it, I was unpleasantly surprised, disappointed, and angry for being duped. I'm keeping the fermentor because it still gives me a 1/2 gallon of head space, but it's sad to pay a large amount for something where you are NOT getting what was advertised.In summary, if you need a fermentor that will hold 11 gallons or less WITHOUT the lid on, then this is ok for you. If you need to ferment something with a volume of over 11 gallons but less than 13 gallons where the lid absolutely MUST be sealed on (1/2 gallon for head space), then this is also ok for you. However, if you are fermenting anything over 13.5 gallons (with a blowout tube), then this fermentor IS NOT for you because it will NOT hold it!! Again, all buyers need to be aware the "14.5 gallon" advertisement is NOT TRUE in any way, shape or form!!

This thing is awesome for any 10 gallon batch. I would not recommend anything more for obvious reasons.