Professional Brewing Systems: A Comprehensive Guide

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit our website.

What is a professional brewing system?

A professional brewing system is a specialized apparatus designed for the production of beer and other fermented beverages on a larger scale. These systems vary in size and complexity, ranging from smaller setups used in craft breweries to large-scale industrial configurations.

1. Origin and Evolution: The history of brewing systems is as old as civilization itself. Ancient cultures crafted their brews using rudimentary tools and methods, but with the onset of the industrial age, there was a need for more efficient and standardized brewing systems. Today&#;s professional brewing systems are a testament to centuries of innovation and refining.
2. Components of a Brewing System: At a high level, a brewing system comprises:
   • Mash Tun: For converting starches to sugars.
   • Boiling Kettle: To boil the wort with hops.
   • Fermentation Tanks: Where the magic happens &#; yeast converts sugars to alcohol.
   • Filtration Systems: For clarity and purity.
   • Packaging: Bottling, canning, and kegging equipment.
3. Craft vs. Industrial Systems: While the foundational principles remain the same, the scale, automation, and precision distinguish a craft brewery&#;s system from that of an industrial brewery. Craft brewing systems prioritize flexibility and experimentation, whereas industrial systems aim for consistency and efficiency.
4. Technological Advancements: Modern brewing systems incorporate advanced technologies such as automated temperature control, digital monitoring, and even AI-driven analytics to predict and optimize brewing outcomes.
5. Environmental Considerations: With the rise of sustainable practices, many brewing systems now incorporate eco-friendly technologies, such as water recycling and energy-saving mechanisms.
6. The Future of Brewing Systems: As the demand for unique and varied beer styles grows, we can expect further innovations in brewing technology, focusing on versatility, efficiency, and sustainability.

Key ComponentsPurposeFound inMash TunConverts starches to sugarsBoth Craft and Industrial SystemsBoiling KettleBoils wort with hopsBoth Craft and Industrial SystemsFermentation TanksYeast fermentationBoth Craft and Industrial SystemsFiltration SystemsProvides clarity to the beerMostly in Industrial SystemsPackaging EquipmentBottling, canning, keggingBoth Craft and Industrial Systems

How much does a professional brewing system cost?

Investing in a professional brewing system can be a significant financial undertaking, influenced by multiple factors like system capacity, features, brand, and more. Understanding the pricing spectrum can help prospective brewers make informed decisions.

1. Factors Influencing Cost: Several elements can affect the price of a brewing system:
   • Capacity: The volume of beer a system can produce plays a direct role in its cost.
   • Automation Level: Manual systems are generally less expensive than fully automated ones.
   • Brand and Quality: Established brands known for durability and high performance might be pricier.
   • Additional Features: Add-ons such as advanced filtration systems, digital controls, and specialized fermenters can raise the price.
2. Craft Brewing Systems:
   • Microbrewery: These are perfect for small-scale commercial brewing or even enthusiastic homebrewers. Systems producing up to 7 barrels (a barrel is 31 gallons) might range from $15,000 to $100,000.
   • Small Craft Brewery: Systems with a capacity of 7 to 15 barrels could range between $100,000 to $500,000.
3. Industrial Brewing Systems: For large-scale commercial production, these systems have vast capacities. A system that can produce 50 barrels or more might cost upwards of $1 million, depending on its features and brand.
4. Brands to Consider:
   • Blichmann Engineering: Known for high-quality equipment for both homebrewers and commercial brewers.
   • BrauKon: A premium brand offering highly automated and efficient brewing systems.
   • JV Northwest: A popular choice for larger breweries due to their extensive capacity options and customization.
5. Maintenance and Hidden Costs: Beyond the initial investment, one must consider costs like maintenance, replacement parts, and the potential need for system upgrades.
6. Financing Options: Thankfully, several companies offer financing options for breweries, recognizing the substantial initial capital required.
7. ROI Considerations: While the initial cost might be high, the return on investment can be lucrative if the brewery gains a steady customer base and maintains quality.
8. Used Equipment: For those looking to save, purchasing used brewing equipment is an option. However, one must ensure it&#;s in good condition and meets all safety standards.

Brewing System TypePrice RangeNotable BrandsMicrobrewery$15,000 to $100,000Blichmann EngineeringSmall Craft Brewery$100,000 to $500,000BrauKonIndustrial Brewing System$1 million and upJV Northwest

What are the types of professional brewing systems?

When considering a venture into the world of brewing, understanding the variety of brewing systems available is crucial. Different systems cater to various needs, scales, and brewing methodologies.

1. Home Brewing Systems: Ideal for hobbyists, these setups are compact and suited for brewing small batches. They may not have the automation of larger systems but are perfect for experimental brewing. They typically range from $100 to $2,500.
2. Microbrewery Systems: Designed for small-scale commercial production or craft breweries. They maintain a balance between capacity and the flexibility to brew diverse beer types. Systems that produce up to 7 barrels (a barrel is 31 gallons) fit into this category. They are priced between $15,000 to $100,000.
3. Small Craft Brewery Systems: These systems take things a notch higher in terms of capacity, ranging between 7 to 15 barrels. They are an ideal choice for breweries that have established a niche and are looking to expand their production. Prices range from $100,000 to $500,000.
4. Industrial Brewery Systems: Tailored for large-scale commercial breweries, these systems emphasize efficiency and consistency. Equipped with high levels of automation and sophisticated control mechanisms, they can produce 50 barrels or more. Given their massive scale and advanced features, these systems can cost upwards of $1 million.
5. Specialized Systems: Apart from the regular brewing processes, there are specialized systems designed for specific brews such as sours, lambics, or non-alcoholic beers. Their price can vary considerably based on their complexity and specialization.

System TypeCapacity (in barrels)Price RangeHome BrewingLess than 1$100 to $2,500MicrobreweryUp to 7$15,000 to $100,000Small Craft Brewery7 to 15$100,000 to $500,000Industrial Brewery50 and above$1 million and up

Functions of professional brewing systems

The craft and science of brewing involve multiple stages, each of which is crucial to the quality and flavor of the final product. A professional brewing system integrates these stages, ensuring efficiency, consistency, and scalability.

1. Mashing: This initial step involves soaking the grains in heated water to activate enzymes that convert starches into fermentable sugars. The brewing system&#;s mash tun facilitates this process.
2. Boiling: The sweet liquid obtained from mashing, known as wort, is boiled with hops in the boiling kettle. This stage not only extracts flavors from the hops but also sterilizes the wort.
3. Cooling: Post boiling, it&#;s vital to cool down the wort quickly to a temperature conducive for fermentation. Modern brewing systems come with efficient heat exchangers that expedite this cooling process.
4. Fermentation: The cooled wort is transferred to fermentation tanks, where yeast is added. Yeast consumes the fermentable sugars, producing alcohol and carbon dioxide in the process. Depending on the beer type, fermentation can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
5. Maturation: Once fermentation is complete, the beer is allowed to mature. This period allows the flavors to develop and any residual sugars to be consumed. Some beers might require extended maturation periods, while others can be consumed relatively fresh.
6. Packaging: After maturation, the beer is filtered and carbonated, if necessary, before being packaged in bottles, cans, or kegs. Packaging is an integral function of larger brewing systems, especially in industrial setups, as it involves filling thousands of units in a short time.

Applications of professional brewing systems

The world of beer is vast and diverse, with each style boasting a unique flavor profile, brewing technique, and history. The versatility of professional brewing systems allows brewers to cater to this diverse palate and delve into various beer styles.

1. Ale Production: Ales encompass a wide range of beers, from IPAs to stouts. Ales are typically fermented at warmer temperatures, and top-fermenting yeast strains are employed. Given their popularity and diverse styles, most brewing systems are optimized for ale production.
2. Lager Production: Lagers are fermented at cooler temperatures using bottom-fermenting yeast strains. They demand extended maturation periods, often at near-freezing temperatures. Brewing systems designed for lagers have specialized fermentation tanks and cooling systems to cater to these needs.
3. Specialty Beers: These include sours, barrel-aged beers, and seasonal brews. Sours, for instance, require a different fermentation approach, often involving wild yeast strains and bacteria. Brewing systems for such specialty beers incorporate additional features to ensure the right environment for these unique brews.
4. Non-alcoholic Beers: With the rising demand for non-alcoholic options, many breweries are exploring this category. Brewing systems for non-alcoholic beers incorporate specialized equipment to remove or limit alcohol during the brewing process.
5. Experimental Brews: The craft beer revolution has encouraged brewers to experiment, leading to creations like coffee IPAs, chili stouts, and more. Versatile brewing systems allow brewers to integrate unconventional ingredients and methods seamlessly.
6. Pilot Batches: Before scaling up production, breweries often produce pilot batches to test recipes and gauge public reaction. Many brewing systems come with pilot brewing setups, allowing for smaller-scale experimentation.
7. Educational Purposes: Brewing schools and universities use professional systems to offer hands-on training to budding brewers. These systems, while fully functional, are often smaller in scale, allowing students to grasp the intricacies of brewing.
8. Brewpubs: Many restaurants and pubs brew their beer on-site, offering a fresh and unique experience to patrons. These establishments require brewing systems that not only produce high-quality beer but also seamlessly integrate into the establishment&#;s aesthetics and operations.

As breweries continue to innovate and cater to evolving consumer preferences, the applications of professional brewing systems will undoubtedly expand, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of beer.

How Professional Brewing Systems Benefit You

The surge in the craft beer industry and the fascination with homebrewing have brought attention to the pivotal role of professional brewing systems. Regardless of scale, from a small home setup to a colossal industrial brewery, these systems offer myriad benefits.

1. Consistency: One of the significant challenges brewers face is maintaining the consistency of their beer across batches. A professional brewing system provides precise control over every stage, from mashing temperatures to fermentation times, ensuring that every batch mirrors its predecessor in flavor and quality.
2. Efficiency: Time is of the essence in brewing, especially in commercial settings. These systems streamline the brewing process, reducing the time between batches and optimizing the use of ingredients. This efficiency not only speeds up production but also leads to cost savings in the long run.
3. Scalability: As a brewery grows in reputation and demand, scaling up production becomes inevitable. Professional brewing systems are designed with this growth in mind. Modular systems allow breweries to augment their capacity without overhauling the entire setup.
4. Quality Control: With advanced sensors and digital monitoring tools, modern brewing systems provide real-time feedback. This immediate data access enables brewers to make on-the-spot adjustments, ensuring the final product meets the desired quality parameters.
5. Flexibility: The dynamic nature of the beer industry demands versatility. Brewers often tweak recipes or experiment with novel ingredients. A professional system offers the flexibility to make these alterations seamlessly, allowing brewers to innovate without constraints.
6. Safety: Brewing, while rewarding, involves potential hazards, from handling boiling liquids to managing pressurized fermentation tanks. Professional systems are equipped with safety mechanisms that protect brewers from accidents, making the brewing process safer and more secure.
7. Environmental Impact: Modern brewing systems often incorporate sustainable technologies. From water recycling mechanisms to energy-efficient heating systems, these setups are designed to reduce the environmental footprint of the brewing process.

How to choose a professional brewing system

Embarking on the brewing journey, whether as a hobby or a commercial venture, involves significant decisions. One such critical decision is selecting the right brewing system. Here&#;s a guide to making an informed choice:

1. Determine Your Scale: Before diving into the technicalities, determine your brewing scale. Are you a homebrewer, a microbrewery, or an industrial-scale brewery? Your scale will dictate the system size, features, and budget.
2. Research Brands: There are numerous brewing system manufacturers, each with its specialties and reputation. Brands like Blichmann Engineering cater to both homebrewers and commercial brewers, while BrauKon is renowned for its highly automated systems. Research and reviews can guide you to a brand that aligns with your needs.
3. Decide on Automation Levels: Some brewers prefer manual control, enjoying the hands-on nature of brewing, while others lean towards automated systems for efficiency and consistency. Decide where you stand on this spectrum and choose a system accordingly.
4. Budget: As with any significant investment, budget plays a crucial role. While it&#;s essential to remain within financial bounds, remember that quality often comes at a price. Weigh the system&#;s features against its cost to ensure value for money.
5. Future Expansion: Even if you&#;re starting small, think ahead. If you plan to expand in the foreseeable future, opt for a system that allows for easy scaling up. Modular systems, which enable capacity augmentation without complete overhauls, can be a smart choice.
6. Consider Technical Support: Brewing systems, especially advanced ones, can have steep learning curves. Opt for brands that offer robust technical support, be it through detailed manuals, helplines, or on-site training.

ConsiderationDescriptionScaleDetermine your brewing volume and frequencyBrandResearch manufacturers for quality and reputationAutomationDecide between manual, semi-automated, or fully automatedBudgetSet a price range but consider value for moneyExpansionConsider future growth and scalabilitySupportEnsure robust technical support from the manufacturer

Best 10 Professional Brewing System Manufacturers

The world of brewing has witnessed an explosion in both demand and innovation. Central to this evolution are the manufacturers who design and produce state-of-the-art brewing systems. Here&#;s a list of the top 10 manufacturers in the industry:

1. Blichmann Engineering: Catering to a wide audience, from homebrewers to commercial establishments, Blichmann is known for its quality and durability.
2. BrauKon: A powerhouse in the brewing industry, BrauKon offers highly automated and efficient systems, tailored for larger breweries.
3. JV Northwest: With extensive capacity options and a reputation for robustness, JV Northwest is a go-to for many large-scale breweries.
4. Ss Brewtech: Emerging as a favorite among craft brewers, Ss Brewtech combines innovative design with efficiency, suitable for mid-scale production.
5. Speidel: A veteran in the brewing industry, Speidel offers a range of systems, with a special focus on homebrewing setups.
6. DME Brewing Solutions: Specializing in turnkey solutions, DME offers everything from brewhouses to fermentation tanks, making them a one-stop-shop for breweries.
7. Alpha Brewing Operations: With a commitment to innovation, Alpha Brewing Operations has carved a niche for itself, especially among craft breweries.
8. PKW (Portland Kettle Works): With a blend of craftsmanship and technology, PKW offers systems that are both aesthetically pleasing and functionally superior.
9. ProBrew: Focusing on efficiency and automation, ProBrew caters predominantly to commercial establishments with high production demands.
10. MoreBeer!: A favorite among homebrewers, MoreBeer! offers compact systems packed with features, perfect for those diving into the world of brewing.

Whether you&#;re a novice brewer or a seasoned professional, these manufacturers offer a plethora of options to cater to your specific needs. As the industry continues to grow, expect even more innovation and variety from these stalwarts.

Where to Buy Professional Brewing Systems

In the ever-growing brewing industry, choosing where to purchase your brewing equipment is almost as critical as selecting the equipment itself. With countless manufacturers and suppliers worldwide, it&#;s essential to navigate this landscape informed and prepared.

1. Local Distributors: Before looking internationally, check for local distributors. They often have partnerships with major brewing system manufacturers and can offer both equipment and post-sales support. An added advantage is reduced shipping time and costs.
2. Directly from Manufacturers: Some brewers prefer to buy directly from the source. This approach ensures genuine products and often opens doors to customization. Moreover, dealing with the manufacturer offers insights into the product&#;s design, evolution, and optimal use.
3. Trade Shows and Conventions: Events like the Craft Brewers Conference or the Great American Beer Festival often feature equipment showcases. These gatherings offer hands-on experience and direct discussions with manufacturers, helping brewers make informed decisions.
4. Online Marketplaces: With the rise of e-commerce, platforms like Alibaba, BrewBids, and ProBrewer have become hotspots for brewing equipment. They provide a broad range of products, often at competitive prices, but ensure to vet sellers for authenticity.
5. Referrals and Recommendations: Sometimes, the best insights come from peers. Engage with other brewers, join brewing forums, or visit local breweries to get recommendations. Their experience can guide you to trusted suppliers.
6. International Suppliers: As the brewing industry is global, many leading manufacturers are located outside North America and Europe. Companies like YoLong Brewtech, based in Ningbo City, China, have become renowned for their quality and innovation. Founded in , YoLong Brewtech has over 15 years of experience and operates from a state-of-the-art 36,000 m2 manufacturing plant, ensuring custom-designed projects meet exact specifications.

Product Advantages of Chinese Professional Brewing Systems

China has emerged as a brewing powerhouse, with numerous manufacturers offering a wide variety of equipment. But why have Chinese brewing systems gained such traction globally? Here&#;s a deeper look:

1. Cost-Effective: One of the most significant advantages of Chinese brewing systems is their cost-effectiveness. Manufacturing costs in China tend to be lower, translating to competitive prices without compromising on quality.
2. Advanced Technology: Despite the perception of some, Chinese manufacturers employ cutting-edge technology in their production processes. Companies like YoLong Brewtech, with their vast experience and state-of-the-art facilities, produce equipment that rivals those from Western manufacturers.
3. Scalability: Chinese manufacturers cater to a wide range of clientele, from microbreweries to industrial-scale plants. This versatility ensures that they offer products catering to different scales, allowing breweries to expand without switching suppliers.
4. Customization: With their emphasis on tailor-made solutions, Chinese suppliers often provide customization options, ensuring the equipment perfectly fits the brewer&#;s needs.
5. International Standards: Leading Chinese manufacturers, aware of their global clientele, adhere to international standards. Their products often come with necessary certifications, ensuring they meet global quality and safety benchmarks.
6. Robust Support and After-sales Service: Understanding the intricacies of brewing equipment, many Chinese suppliers, including YoLong Brewtech, offer comprehensive after-sales support, ensuring their customers can navigate any challenges post-purchase.
7. Diverse Product Range: Given the vast manufacturing capacity, Chinese suppliers often have an extensive product range, from brewing kettles to fermentation tanks and packaging lines. This diversity ensures brewers can source all their needs from a single supplier.
8. Export Expertise: With their global clientele, Chinese manufacturers have honed their export processes. This expertise ensures smooth shipping, customs clearances, and delivery, minimizing post-purchase hassles for international buyers.

Best Chinese Professional Brewing System Supplier: YoLong Brewtech

China&#;s rise as a global manufacturing hub has seen the emergence of numerous brewing system suppliers. Among them, YoLong Brewtech stands out, not just for its products but also for its ethos and vision.

1. Vast Experience: Founded in , YoLong Brewtech brings over 15 years of experience to the table. This longevity is a testament to their dedication, quality, and commitment to serving the brewing industry.
2. Diverse Product Portfolio: YoLong caters to various sectors within the beverage industry, from beer and wine to cold-brewed coffee, kombucha, and infused teas. This diversity showcases their versatility and ability to innovate.
3. State-of-the-Art Facility: Located in the Ningbo City Economic Development Zone, YoLong&#;s manufacturing plant is a marvel. Spread across 36,000 m2, it&#;s equipped with advanced machinery and tools, ensuring every product is crafted to perfection.
4. Customization: YoLong&#;s emphasis on tailor-made solutions has earned them accolades. They work closely with their clients, ensuring every project aligns perfectly with the customer&#;s specifications.
5. Global Presence: While based in China, YoLong&#;s influence is global. They&#;ve catered to clients worldwide, and their products can be found in breweries across continents, a testament to their universal appeal and unmatched quality.

For those venturing into the brewing world or looking to upgrade their existing setups, YoLong Brewtech offers a blend of experience, quality, and innovation, making them a top choice among brewing system suppliers.

FAQ

Q1: What is the average lifespan of a professional brewing system?

While the lifespan can vary based on usage, maintenance, and quality, most professional brewing systems last between 10 to 20 years. Regular maintenance and proper use can extend the system&#;s life.

Q2: Can I customize my brewing system based on my brewing style?

Absolutely! Companies, especially those like YoLong Brewtech, pride themselves on offering customization options to perfectly align with your brewing needs and style.

YME supply professional and honest service.

Q3: How often should I perform maintenance on my brewing equipment?

Regular maintenance is key to longevity and optimal performance. It&#;s advisable to conduct weekly checks and thorough monthly maintenance. Always consult your equipment&#;s manual for specific guidelines.

Q4: Is it challenging to scale up my production with a professional brewing system?

Not at all! Professional brewing systems are designed with scalability in mind. Depending on the manufacturer, you can expand your production by adding components or upgrading specific parts of the system.

Q5: Are Chinese brewing systems compatible with international standards?

Leading Chinese manufacturers, like YoLong Brewtech, adhere to international standards. They produce equipment that meets global quality and safety benchmarks, ensuring compatibility with global requirements.

Q6: Do I need specialized training to operate a professional brewing system?

While professional brewing systems are designed for ease of use, training is beneficial. It ensures you utilize the system to its full potential and maintain it properly. Many manufacturers offer training sessions or manuals for guidance.

Q7: What&#;s the difference between a home brewing system and a professional one?

Home brewing systems are typically smaller and designed for personal use, handling small batches. Professional systems are more robust, designed for commercial production, and come with advanced features for efficiency and scalability.

Know More Brewing equipment

We researched brewing equipment for about two years before placing an order. There are so many factors to consider such as size, number of vessels, type of heat source, cooling the wort, as well as country of manufacturing and engineering origin.

Here&#;s a summary of the main issues that were considered and our approach to a solution.

Vessels needed for brewing

Commercial brewing requires several different types of big vessels made of stainless steel. First, the water gets heated in a dedicated vessel called the Hot Liquor Tank (&#;liquor&#; is referring to the technical term for any liquid used in a process of some kind, not the liquid that gets you drunk). The hot water is then transferred to a vessel known as the Mash/Lauter Tun where it saturates milled grain to extract the delicious sugars and flavors.

Example of a hot liquor tank.

After a little while, the carbohydrate-rich water is transferred to the Boil Kettle right next to the mash tun where it is brought to boiling temperature by a direct gas-fired burner, indirect gas-fired burner, steam, or electric elements. Hops (and other special ingredients depending on the recipe) are added during the boil. Once that is completed, the boil kettle becomes a Whirlpool, forcing the water into a vortex that separates it from the larger particles in the solution (like large clusters of hops).

The Boil Kettle/Whirlpool and the Mash/Lauter Tun are usually right next to each other with a platform and stairs between them so the brewer can visually monitor the process and add ingredients. Collectively, they&#;re referred to as the Brewhouse. As breweries expand (reach the limit of beer that can be produced from the brewhouse in a 24 hour period), they will often add a third vessel for a dedicated whirlpool (and then a fourth vessel for dedicated lauter). This increases the churn rate and increases labor efficiency so more beer can be produced each day.

Example of a brewhouse comprised of a Mash/Lauter tun, platform, and brew kettle.

The hot liquid is then cooled and transferred to a Fermenting Vessel where yeast is added and the magic of transforming sugars to alcohol begins for several days to a few weeks. Then the fermentation process is stopped and beer is transferred to a Brite Tank where it is cooled even further to allow remaining particles in the beer to fall to the bottom of the tank. Once finished, the beer can be kegged or bottled/canned for serving.

Sizing Considerations

Most start-up microbreweries size their brewhouse at 10-30 barrels (1 barrel = 31.5 gallons = 2 big kegs = 240 pints of beer) and have equivalent-sized fermenter/brite tanks.

Sizing the brewhouse is a balancing act for a new brewery that can&#;t be sure of sales and growth. Starting too big will place a strain on initial expenditures as well as make a bad batch of beer a costly mistake. Starting too small will make it difficult to catch up with demand and increases the cost of ingredients per batch since smaller systems utilize hops at lower efficiency. Many brewers will tell you that doubling the size of your system is much less than double the cost. This is usually true, however, that alone is not a good reason for buying a bigger system.

Consider the amount of physical space available in the brewery. If there isn&#;t much room to add additional fermenting and brite tanks in the future, starting with a large brewing system isn&#;t wise. It&#;s also important to consider the clear height of the ceiling compared to the diagonal height of the fermenting/brite vessels. These are the tallest vessels. Unless your space has a tall dock door, these tanks need adequate ceiling height to be tilted up to standing within the space. Large breweries will often create an opening in the ceiling to drop in these tanks.

Consider starting with a smaller brewhouse with room to add a dedicated whirlpool in the future. Then size the fermenters/brite tanks at double the size of the brewhouse. The tanks can be half filled when business is slow and filled completely with double batches from the brewhouse when demand increases. This allows the brewery to double their capacity with only about 30% higher initial cost compared to having to purchase additional tanks (which would be 100% additional cost).

Number of Vessels

A general rule of thumb is to purchase the number of fermenters and brite tanks needed to take you through the first 2-3 years of production. You can calculate the approximate maximum annual capacity of a fermenter using these metrics:

Daily fermenting volume available = # vessels * volume of vessel

Turns per year = # of brew days per year / days to ferment average beer

Annual capacity = fermenting volume * turns per year

A way to simplify this is to assume 80% ale production (shorter fermentation time), 20% lager production (longer fermentation time) and 50 weeks of brewing (assumes some vacation and/or maintenance time):

Annual capacity = fermenting volume * 42

This also assumes that you have sufficient number of brite tanks to rotate beers this quickly.

If you plan to have a lot of different beers on tap at any given time, consider starting with the same ratio of brite to fermenting vessels.

Brewhouse Heat Source

There are three heat sources for the hot liquor tank and brew kettle:

• Direct FireA flame heats the exterior of the tank which transfers heat to the liquid in the tank.
  • Pros: least expensive; best option for small systems
  • Cons: a concentrated area of heat that can scorch the wort;  inefficient energy utilization (heat lost to surrounding air); not for use on systems larger than 10 barrels
• Indirect FireA relatively new method where flame heats air in a separate burner box that is then circulated throughout a jacket around the tank.
  • Pros: priced similar to direct fire; no scorching
  • Cons: not as efficient as electric or steam; not for use on systems larger than 10 barrels
• ElectricLarge heating elements are placed inside the kettle just like a residential electric water heater.
  • Pros: less expensive than steam; very efficient energy utilization
  • Cons: electricity sometimes more expensive than gas; needs 3-phase heavy power; not for use on systems larger than 10 barrels
• SteamThis is the industry standard for brewing systems sized 15 barrels and up. A separate boiler heats water with gas flame to create steam that is circulated through an insulated steel jacket around the kettle.
  • Pros: fairly efficient; heats quickly
  • Cons: most expensive; requires separate costly boiler; boiler maintenance

Choosing a Supplier

There are many suppliers of brewing vessels, especially given the boom of new breweries within the last decade. But most suppliers do not actually manufacture the vessels themselves. Rather, they are typically imported from manufacturers in China or other countries. While this can keep costs down for customers, the quality of the design, materials, and build varies wildly.

If you do end up choosing a supplier that imports equipment, pick one that uses US-based engineers to design the equipment. Remember that importing from overseas adds significant shipping charges, often about 10% of the cost of the equipment itself. The wait time for delivery is also longer.

Verify that any foreign-built equipment has electrical components that are rated for your country along with design specifications in English.

The brewing industry typically places the most value on domestically designed and manufactured vessels. The US tends to have higher standards for the quality of steel used in food-grade equipment and the build tends to be better. This of course comes at a higher cost, but may be made up with saving more from shipping.

For any supplier, it&#;s very important to check their references. Ask for a list of their customers and contact them personally to inquire:

• What was ordered
• Quality of equipment received
• Any delays
• Issues encountered and how supplier responded
• Whether they would order from the supplier again
• If they recommend this supplier

Our Approach

We decided on a 10 barrel indirect fire brewhouse for the following reasons:

• Indirect fire provided the benefits of even heating like steam does but without the cost and maintenance of a boiler.
• We didn&#;t want a boiler so that limits us to brewhouse sizes of less than 15 barrels
• Significant reduction in overall equipment costs compared to larger systems but still big enough to produce beer for distribution (compared to systems smaller than 10 barrels)

Since our business plan calls for a heavy taproom focus initially, we need enough brite tanks to allow for more different styles of beer we are planning to produce. So we ordered tanks in a 1:1 ratio &#; 3 brite tanks and 3 fermenters. These are all sized at 20 barrels to allow for eventually double batching to increase production capacity without having to add more tanks. If you do this, make sure the supplier adjusts the glycol jacket around the vessel. Since glycol jackets are normally only around the upper half of the vessel, they won&#;t adequately cool a tank that is only half full.

We selected Rocky Mountain Vessels, a US-based supplier that designs and manufactures vessels at their Colorado location. In addition, the steel is sourced domestically. Can&#;t get much better than that. We&#;re looking forward to delivery sometime this June, !

For more honey brewing equipmentinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.