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How to Find the Best Microbrewery Equipment

How to Find the Best Microbrewery Equipment

Start your brewery off right by buying quality, durable equipment. Look for used pieces that have been well maintained – you can save up front and over time.

Brewery equipment can be broken down into two sections: the brewery and the cellar. This article will cover the essentials of each.

Fermenters

The fermenter is the vessel that brewers use to convert the wort into beer. It is a sealed, sterilized vessel that preserves ideal conditions for microbe development. It is used in various industries including dairy, food and beverage, and pharmaceuticals. The brewing industry has four main types of fermenters.

The most common type is the open-top fermenter, which allows easy access to the wort during fermentation. However, it can be susceptible to contamination and is more difficult to clean. Closed-top fermenters offer more protection against contamination and are easier to clean, but they can be less efficient.

Another type of fermenter is the tower fermenter, which is designed to maximize yeast biomass yields. It has a series of perforated plates spaced across the body of the vessel, which creates distinct zones for yeast growth. It also has a settling zone free of gas that allows clear beer to be removed from the main body of the vessel.

Finally, the CIP (clean-in-place) system is a set of tanks that is used to wash and sanitize the equipment in a brewery. This includes cleaning the mash tuns, brewing vessels, and fermentation tanks. In smaller breweries, CIP systems are often installed on carts and can be moved to other areas of the brewery. In larger breweries, the CIP system is usually standalone and has multiple tanks.

Mash Tuns

A mash tun is an essential piece of Microbrewery equipment when making the transition from extract or BIAB brewing to all-grain. These large stainless steel containers are designed to cater specifically to the mashing and lautering processes. They usually include a built-in false bottom and spigot, making it easy to transfer the liquid without spilling grain into the new batch. They’re also insulated, which helps keep a constant temperature throughout the mashing process.

The best mash tuns are made from durable, food-grade stainless steel and come with features like volume markings and a digital temperature sensor to make regulating the temperature easier. A tri-ply bottom prevents scorching, and a metal screen filters the wort. They’re also lightweight and have a convenient lid for easy transport. The Learn to Brew Mash Tun from QuickFit is a popular option that’s ideal for a beginner just starting out.

More advanced brewers may want to look into a more sophisticated model, such as the InfuSsion mash tun. It has the durability and stainless steel construction of a standard kettle, but with a layer of high-density foam sandwiched between the walls. This insulation helps maintain a consistent temperature and reduce energy consumption. Those looking to simplify their set up can even opt for an all-in-one system that combines a mash tun, boil kettle and fermenter in one compact unit.

Grain Mills

For those who want to brew beer with raw ingredients rather than buying it in pre-packaged kits, a grain mill is an essential piece of equipment. This simple device allows you to grind any leguminous crop or cereal to achieve a wide variety of textures. It can also help you reduce your costs by using the least expensive ingredients.

Grain mills can be divided into three categories according to their design: stone burr, impact, and steel burr. The first type has a stone or metal body with concentric rings of fins, which are used to crush the grains into smaller pieces. They are often noisy and have a low output, but they can be very effective.

The second kind uses an impact mechanism to break the grain kernels with a series of high-speed jets, causing them to burst and scatter. This type is more cost-effective, but can be difficult to control and may not be suitable for all applications. The third type is an electric grinder with a set of rotating discs that can be lowered to various settings. It is very efficient and can be used on a wide range of materials, from wheat to peas.

For large breweries, it is advisable to invest in a larger grain mill with more powerful machinery that can cope with high production levels. This will allow you to achieve the best results and make sure that your beer meets your customers’ expectations.

Brewing Equipment

A brewery’s brewing equipment is the heart of its operations. It takes the raw ingredients and turns them into beer that is delicious, safe to drink and ready for distribution. High-quality equipment is essential to a successful business and will provide a competitive advantage over low-quality competitors.

Brewing equipment can range from a small-scale brewpub plug and brew kit to a commercial large-scale brewing system. Choose a system that suits your business needs and budget, and research the options carefully to find the best fit. If you are considering a used system, make sure the electrical components are properly rated for your country and that all design specifications are in English. The brewing industry typically places the highest value on equipment that is designed and built in the US.

Stainless steel is the ideal material for brewery equipment because it can withstand high temperatures and pressures without deforming or corroding. Look for quality stainless steel from a company that offers warranties and maintenance services for your purchase.

Breweries need to have a supply of food-grade, heat resistant hoses that can be used for cleaning and connecting pumps to vessels. These hoses must be able to withstand high levels of pressure and should come in various lengths, including short hoses for connecting pumps to tanks. They must also be easily sanitized and durable enough to withstand frequent use.

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