A Simple Guide for Better Brewing | DEGONG Brewery Equipment

Introduction: The Heart of the Brewing Process

In every brewery — from small craft producers to large-scale beer factories — the fermentation tank is the heart of the operation. It’s where yeast transforms wort into beer, creating the alcohol, aroma, and flavor that define every brew.

DEGONG, as a professional manufacturer of brewery equipment, provides a full range of stainless steel fermentation tanks designed for efficiency, hygiene, and precise temperature control.

1. What Is a Beer Fermentation Tank?

A beer fermentation tank (also known as a fermenter or fermentation vessel) is a sealed container where yeast converts sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide under controlled conditions.

The process typically lasts 7–14 days, depending on beer style and yeast type. Proper fermentation tank design ensures:

• Stable temperature control

• Adequate pressure management

• Easy cleaning and sterilization (CIP system)

• Consistent flavor and aroma development

2. Types of Fermentation Tanks

Different breweries use different fermentation vessels depending on their production scale and beer style.

(1) Conical Fermentation Tanks

These are the most common in modern breweries. They feature a cone-shaped bottom (usually 60°) that allows yeast and sediment to settle naturally, simplifying yeast collection and beer clarification.

Advantages:

• Easy yeast recycling

• Efficient cleaning (CIP)

• Ideal for both fermentation and maturation

(2) Open Fermentation Tanks

Used in traditional or specialty beer brewing. These tanks are open to the air, allowing specific yeast strains (like in Belgian or wheat beers) to develop unique flavors.

Advantages:

• Rich ester and aroma profile

• Easier visual monitoring

(3) Cylindroconical Fermenters

A hybrid design combining the benefits of conical and cylindrical tanks. Widely used in craft breweries, ensuring uniform temperature and pressure control.

3. Materials and Construction

DEGONG fermentation tanks are made of SUS304 or SUS316 stainless steel, known for excellent corrosion resistance, easy cleaning, and durability.

Each tank includes:

• Dimple jacket for glycol cooling

• Top manway or side manway

• Pressure relief valve and CIP ball

• Sample valve and thermometer

• Racking arm and bottom outlet

Optional features:

• Polished interior (Ra≤0.4 μm) for hygiene

• Insulated shell with polyurethane foam

• PLC or digital temperature controller

4. Temperature and Pressure Control

Fermentation temperature directly influences yeast performance and beer flavor.

DEGONG’s tanks integrate glycol cooling jackets and digital control systems to maintain precise fermentation temperatures:

• Ale fermentation: 18–22 °C

• Lager fermentation: 8–14 °C

Pressure control is achieved through PRV valves and carbonation stones, ensuring optimal CO₂ levels and consistent beer carbonation.

5. Cleaning and Maintenance (CIP System)

Sanitation is critical for beer quality. DEGONG fermentation tanks include a built-in CIP (Clean-in-Place) system, featuring:

• Rotating CIP spray ball

• Alkaline cleaning, acid rinse, and sanitization

• Optional automatic cleaning control

Regular cleaning ensures that no residue or yeast buildup affects future batches, maintaining flavor purity and tank longevity.

6. Choosing the Right Fermentation Tank

When selecting a fermentation tank, consider:

• Batch size – from 100 L to 100 BBL (customized by DEGONG)

• Beer style – ale, lager, wheat, sour, or cider

• Available space and ceiling height

• Cooling system type (individual vs. centralized glycol unit)

• Automation level – manual, semi-automatic, or PLC-controlled

DEGONG engineers can provide customized solutions for breweries of all sizes, optimizing layout, energy efficiency, and cost.

7. Why Choose DEGONG Fermentation Tanks

• Professional Manufacturing: Over 13 years of brewery equipment experience

• High-Quality Materials: 304/316 stainless steel, food-grade polish

• Customized Design: Volume, jacket type, and fittings as per your brewing process

• Strict Quality Control: TIG welding, 100% pressure test, CE certification

• Global Support: Installation guidance, after-sales service, and spare parts supply

Conclusion

Fermentation is more than just a chemical reaction — it’s the art and science of brewing. A well-designed DEGONG beer fermentation tank ensures stable performance, consistent beer quality, and easier operation for brewers worldwide.

Whether you are starting a small craft brewery or expanding a commercial production line, DEGONG offers professional solutions that help you brew better beer every day.