The fermentation system of beer equipment consists of fermentation tanks, sake tanks, and temporary storage tanks. Fermentation is a crucial process in beer production, involving complex biochemical reactions with yeast. The fermentation tank is cylindrical with a conical bottom and has its own cooling device to control the fermentation temperature. The conical bottom facilitates yeast recovery and cleaning, while the tank body is equipped with a CIP cleaning system to ensure hygiene in production. Furthermore, fermentation engineering technology allows for the use of PLC automatic temperature control technology.
Overview of Beer Fermentation Tanks
The primary equipment for beer fermentation includes fermentation tanks and seed tanks. Each tank is equipped with raw material (medium) modulation, cooking, sterilization, and cooling equipment, as well as ventilation change, sterilization equipment, and an agitator. The fermentation tank undertakes the production task of the product, while the seed tank ensures the necessary amount of bacteria for fermenter cultivation.
Fermentation Tank Structure
The body of the beer fermentation tank is cylindrical, with dish-shaped or conical bottom and top covers. The tank omits alcohol acidification but allows for the recovery of CO2 gas and a portion of the alcohol. The tank is equipped with a manhole, sight glass, carbon dioxide recovery pipe, feed pipe, inoculation pipe, pressure gauge, and measuring instrument interface pipe on the top. It also has a discharge port, sewage outlet, sampling port, and thermometer interface on the bottom. Manholes are often installed near the bottom for maintenance and cleaning purposes during large-scale fermentation.
Cooling Device
Small and medium-sized fermentation tanks are often sprayed with water on the outer wall surface for film cooling. Large fermentation tanks, on the other hand, are equipped with a cooling pipe or combined cooling device for efficient cooling. A water collecting tank is installed at the bottom to prevent dampness and water accumulation in the fermentation workshop. The spray cooling method ensures uniform cooling and high cooling efficiency of the fermentation liquid.
Washing
In the past, manual cleaning inside the tank was labor-intensive and sometimes led to accidents when workers entered the tank. Nowadays, fermenters are equipped with water jet washing devices, improving labor intensity and operational efficiency. This hydraulic washing device is especially important for large fermenters.
Surface Treatment
The beer fermentation tanks are polished inside and outside, making them easy to clean. The precision is 0.4um.
Sterilization Method
The sterilization process is programmable and controlled by an automatic program. The sterilization sequence and temperature range (100°C to 130°C) can be set. High-temperature sterilization is controlled by a pneumatic valve. Automatic program control sterilization reduces labor intensity and ensures accurate sterilization temperature.
Temperature Automatic Control System
The temperature automatic control system includes an electric heating, water cooling, and over-temperature protection function. It is equipped with an LCD touch screen control, circulating water heating and cooling system. The cooling water temperature has a range of 5°C to 65°C, with an accuracy of ±0.2°C and resolution of 0.01°C. The intelligent PID control ensures rapid temperature control and energy savings. The accuracy and stability of temperature control greatly influence the fermentation result.
Flow Detection and Pressure Detection System
The system uses rotameter detection and manual control of airflow.
pH Automatic Control
The pH is detected, and intelligent PID control is applied for precise pH adjustment using a peristaltic pump to add acid and alkali. The range of pH control is 0.00 to 14.00 ±0.01, with an automatic control range of 2.00 to 12.00 ±0.05.
Controller Capabilities
The controller can analyze the pH value curve, acid and alkali addition curves, batch reports, acid and alkali addition cumulative display records, and data storage.
Feed Control
The fermentation tank is equipped with a complete feeding system that measures and records the feeding curve. The number of peristaltic pumps can be adjusted according to needs, typically two per fermenter. The control interface allows for easy selection and setting of peristaltic pump functions. Additionally, refill pins are designed for safe operation.
Features of ACE Fermenters
ACE fermenters possess the following characteristics:
- Strict structure
- Good liquid mixing characteristics
- Efficient mass transfer and heat transfer rate
- Reliable detection and control instruments
Plans to Build a Craft Brewery
If you are considering opening a craft beer equipment factory, ACE engineers are ready to provide high-quality service and accurate quotations to help you realize your dreams. Contact ACE for a turnkey solution in brewery equipment. Our engineers will design and manufacture brewery equipment tailored to your brewing process. Whether you’re opening a new brewery or expanding an existing one, we offer customized solutions to meet your needs.
