Comprehensive Analysis Of Beer Fermentation Tanks

In the modern craft beer brewing process, the fermentation tank is not only a container, but also a key process equipment that determines the quality, flavor and style of beer. It shoulders the mission of transforming saccharification liquid into beer liquid, and plays the most "quiet but crucial" role in every brewery. For beer equipment manufacturers, how to design an efficient, safe, stable and easy-to-clean fermentation tank has become an important indicator of manufacturing level and process depth.

Working principle of beer fermentation tank

The fermentation process of beer is a biochemical reaction process in which yeast converts maltose into alcohol, carbon dioxide and other flavor substances. The role of the fermentation tank is to provide a sterile, constant temperature, and controllable environment for this process, and to ensure that carbon dioxide is properly retained or released, yeast activity is maintained, and the risk of bacterial invasion is minimized.

Usually, the saccharified wort is cooled and transported to the fermentation tank, and then inoculated with yeast. In the next 5-14 days (or even longer), the yeast is fully fermented in the tank, and the fermentation temperature is precisely controlled according to different beer types. The fermentation tank must withstand a certain pressure and have functional components such as cooling jackets, temperature control systems, CIP cleaning balls, pressure gauges, sampling ports, and fermentation outlets to ensure smooth, efficient and easy management of fermentation.

Structural composition of fermentation tank

A mature industrial fermentation tank has scientific structure and precise design, and is mainly composed of the following core parts:

1. Tank body

It is made of food-grade stainless steel (such as SUS304/316L), and the inner tank polishing accuracy reaches Ra≤0.4μm, ensuring hygiene without dead corners. The capacity can be customized from 100L to more than 10,000L.

2. Cooling jacket

It is usually equipped with two cooling sections, the cone bottom and the cylinder, and adopts a double-layer jacket or a honeycomb jacket. The refrigerant is mostly a mixture of ethylene glycol and water, with precise temperature control and sensitive response.

3. Conical bottom

The bottom design is generally a 60° cone angle, which is convenient for yeast sedimentation and discharge, and is also conducive to later yeast recovery or secondary fermentation.

4. Cleaning and exhaust system

Equipped with CIP spray ball, CIP liquid inlet and exhaust pipe to ensure the sterile cleaning state before and after each batch of fermentation.

5. Control interface

Including temperature probe interface, level gauge, pressure gauge, sampling valve, safety valve, etc., supporting automatic control system access to achieve temperature control, pressure control, and remote monitoring.

6. Support structure

Equipped with adjustable feet, it is easy to install in different ground environments, while ensuring the stable operation of the entire tank to prevent vibration and deviation.

Classification of beer fermentation tanks

According to different brewing needs and production scales, beer fermentation tanks can be divided into the following categories:

1. Classification by function:

Main fermentation tank: used in the main fermentation stage, requiring precise temperature control.

Post-fermentation tank/storage tank: used to mature and clarify beer, remove coarse yeast and impurities.

Integrated fermentation tank: combines main fermentation and post-fermentation into one, suitable for small and medium-sized breweries.

2. By installation method:

Vertical fermentation tank (common): suitable for large and medium-sized equipment layout, small footprint and large capacity.

Horizontal fermentation tank: commonly used in the storage stage, with stable pressure and good clearing effect.

Fermentation is the soul of brewing. Whether it is lager, ale, fruity wheat, or special wine, the high-quality fermentation process is inseparable from a scientific, intelligent, safe, and hygienic fermentation tank. As a professional beer equipment manufacturer in China, we are committed to providing high-performance, customizable, and multi-style adaptable fermentation tank system solutions to global customers, helping every brewer to brew beer with pure flavor, unique taste, and stable quality.

We not only produce equipment, but also provide overall brewing solutions. If you are looking for a high-quality fermentation system, please feel free to contact us for free consultation and customized solutions!