[Stevie]

Those numbers aren't out of line. Are you noticing a scorched flavor at all?

[BairsBrewing]

Those numbers aren't out of line. Are you noticing a scorched flavor at all?

On a couple batches.  I'm working on getting the black stuff removed then see how things go. 

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[BairsBrewing]

Well, got all the black stuff removed, did a batch and had the same results with black buildup.  I have the pump output closed about half way during the mash, if I open it anymore I'm afraid it will be too fast for the liquid to get through the grain bed.

[weazletoe]

OP, what size batches are you brewing and what kind of time are you looking at to heat your strike water and get to a boil?

[BairsBrewing]

OP, what size batches are you brewing and what kind of time are you looking at to heat your strike water and get to a boil?

5 gallon batches, usually heat the water up to 124, then dough in with a 15 minute protein rest, then 10-15 minute rise to mash temp assisted with gas, then the same 10-15 minute rise to mash out of 168. I don't use the rims tube for boil, only direct fire gas.

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[swampale]

I use Barkeepers Friend and either a white or blue scrubbie on my elements and that seems to work fine. However, clean it on brew day, not a week later like I did, way more scrubbing.

[natebrews]

I don't have a RIMS system, but I do have a BoilCoil in my 9 gallon pot.  It is roughly 30W/sq.inch (3750 total).  I haven't ever seen anything black on it.  I do get a hazy buildup that needs to be removed every few batches, but that is kind of whitish scaling type stuff that comes right off with vinegar.  I also use a scrubby, blue or green or whatever I've got.  What you have sure looks like scorching.