Nowadays, more and more brewmasters are considering the operation of the brewhouse. They aim to make the operation easier, simpler, and more convenient. Generally, there are three types of configurations for operating the brewhouse. Regardless of the configuration, the brewhouse, including the motor and pump, is controlled by a control cabinet. The main difference lies in the valves: manual valves and pneumatic valves.
Regarding brewhouses with manual valves, there are two types:
The first type
This brewhouse is equipped with a control manifold, making it easy to operate. However, the piping is more complex. It is suitable for a two-vessel brewhouse, such as MLT+KWT (mash/lauter tank + kettle/whirlpool tank).
The second type
This brewhouse does not have a control manifold. It is more suitable for a brewhouse with three or four vessels. As you know, a three or four-vessel brewhouse requires more points to be connected with piping compared to a two-vessel brewhouse. If a control manifold is still used, the plumbing will become more complicated. Each pipe will gather at the control manifold from all the vessels, which will lengthen the piping and store more wort, which is not ideal. Without a control manifold, the piping only needs to connect each point, resulting in a clearer plumbing layout.
The last option
This brewhouse is equipped with pneumatic valves. When using manual valves, one needs to go up and down stairs, which is inconvenient. Therefore, pneumatic valves are an option. Nowadays, the control cabinet is also equipped with PLC. However, this option comes with a higher cost.
So, which option do you prefer?
