Running a brewery is a challenging task that requires monitoring multiple factors simultaneously and ensuring the long-term stability of the brewery. The brewery floor, in particular, plays a crucial role as it is affected by various elements that can impact the brewery’s operations.
In most industries, floors and floor coatings are considered arbitrary or purely aesthetic considerations. However, in breweries, floors are of utmost importance. Like other food and beverage industries, breweries must comply with numerous laws and regulations to remain operational. Many of these regulations directly relate to the cleanliness of the production equipment.
In the past, breweries were often seen as reserved spaces for craft beer makers and brewers. However, they have now become popular destinations for beer enthusiasts and tourists looking to try new products. With the increase in visitors, the responsibility for health and safety issues has also grown, making the brewery floor a top priority to address.
Having the right brewery floor not only prevents slips, trips, and hygiene problems caused by bacteria but also ensures compliance with strict regulations. The law mandates that all brewery floors meet stringent hygiene requirements.
Based on years of experience in brewery equipment, it is recommended to re-lay brewery floors every seven years to comply with local hygiene regulations. To ensure longevity, the floor must be made from strong materials and manufactured using special chemicals for enhanced strength and cleanliness. Additionally, the floor should possess various features to withstand severe abuse. Here are some tips to help you choose and maintain a strong brewery floor:
Requirements For The Brewery Floor
Durability
Throughout the life cycle of a brewery floor, it will endure varying degrees of abuse. The floor needs to withstand the impact of different equipment and machinery, such as barrels, forklifts, trolleys, pallets, and other heavy sliding equipment. Applying floor paint can protect exposed concrete and using epoxy can mark areas that should not be stepped on. Polyurethane is also suitable for strengthening concrete and preventing cracks caused by chemical penetration.
Slip resistance
Breweries are notorious for being slippery environments due to spills. It is crucial to use non-slip flooring and incorporate anti-slip additives in the resin floor to ensure greater traction.
Thermal shock resistance
Brewing processes involve the use of steam, boiling water, and cold water. The brewery floor is exposed to constant temperature changes, which can cause ordinary floors to crack. Applying a polyurethane coating helps prevent cracking and delamination by allowing for natural expansion and contraction.
Chemical resistance
Brewery floors are subjected to leaks and the presence of various harsh and corrosive chemicals such as maltase, salt, sugar, yeast, alcohol, acid, and detergent. It is essential to choose flooring materials that can withstand these chemicals and apply chemical-resistant coatings when necessary.
Proper drainage
While it’s important to have non-slip floors, it is equally crucial to ensure proper drainage in cases of overflow. Fixed-point drain pipes and ditch drainage pipes are not ideal for breweries due to maintenance issues and potential bacterial growth. Trough drains are the most suitable option as they are thin, long, easy to clean, and made of stainless steel.
Sanitary condition
The brewery floor should be free of holes, cracks, and crevices that can harbor bacteria. It is recommended to choose a floor with antibacterial properties to prevent the growth of harmful organisms.
Wet/dry capacity
Breweries have areas that need to be kept moist and others that require dry conditions. Consider this aspect when selecting the floor.
Low environmental impact
Consumers increasingly value eco-friendly practices. Breweries, especially smaller ones, need to demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability. Choosing environmentally friendly flooring materials can help attract environmentally conscious consumers.
Options for the brewery floor
There are several options for brewery floors:
- Epoxy: A popular choice due to its low cost and high durability. It may require additional coating as it wears down.
- Urethane: A top choice for food and beverage facilities, offering non-skid properties, high hygiene standards, and seamless surfaces that prevent microbial growth.
- Methyl Methacrylate (MMA): A fast-curing option suitable for time-sensitive projects. It provides the benefits of urethane and comes in various colors.
- Metallic Epoxy: Ideal for showcasing breweries to investors or customers, with a unique glass-like appearance and non-skid capabilities.
To prevent floor failures that could result in costly repairs, follow these tips. Proper drainage, shock resistance, chemical resistance, slip resistance, and durability are essential factors to consider. By implementing these measures, you can ensure a successful and prosperous brewing career. If you’re planning to open or expand your brewery, consider contacting us for a turnkey solution tailored to your brewing process. Our engineers can design and manufacture brewery equipment while providing customized solutions for your specific needs.
