How To Bottle Beer?

What is brewery filling?

Beer filling is the process of transferring newly brewed beer from storage tanks to containers such as bottles or cans for sale and consumption. The filling process is a key part of beer production and needs to be completed accurately, hygienically and quickly to maintain the taste, freshness and carbonation of the beer. Beer filling usually uses mechanical automation equipment (such as filling machines) to complete the later stages of the beer production line. These machines can fill beer into containers efficiently and hygienically while ensuring the quality and safety of the product.

Beer filling types:

• Bottled beer: beer is filled in glass bottles, plastic bottles or aluminum bottles.

• Canned beer: beer is filled in aluminum cans or steel cans.

• Keg beer: beer is filled in beer barrels, usually used in restaurants, bars and other places, suitable for large-scale sales.

Filling Equipment Required for Beer Bottling

Types of Beer Filling Equipment

• Gravity beer fillers: Gravity beer fillers rely on natural gravity to fill bottled or canned beer. They are simple in design and feature a water tank above the filling station. When a container is placed under the filling nozzle, the liquid flows downward and fills the container. Gravity fillers are suitable for small batches and are used by small or home breweries.

• Counter-pressure beer fillers: Counter-pressure beer fillers are used in large breweries and bottling plants. They use a pressurized filling process that minimizes oxidation and ensures a stable carbonation level. These machines work by first purging the container with CO2 and then pressurizing it to the same pressure as the beer tank. The beer is then pressed into the container to maintain its carbonation level and quality.

• Isobaric beer fillers: Isobaric beer fillers are similar to counter pressure fillers but operate differently. They are designed to fill bottles or cans without interrupting the flow of beer. This type of machine maintains a constant pressure during the filling process, which increases production efficiency. Isobaric fillers are used in high-speed bottling lines to ensure efficiency and precision.

• Vacuum beer fillers: Vacuum beer fillers use a vacuum system to fill beer into bottles or cans. These machines work by creating a vacuum inside the container, which draws the liquid in. Vacuum fillers are particularly useful for filling glass bottles with foamy or carbonated beers because they reduce foam and product waste. They are often used in craft breweries and specialty beer production.

Capping Machine 

The capping machine is used to put the bottle cap on the container containing beer to ensure sealing, usually composed of parts such as capping head and capping mechanism.

Conveyor

Conveyors are used to deliver empty bottles/cans to the filling machine and transport containers filled with beer to the next process. They include chain conveyors, belt conveyors, etc.

Cleaning and disinfection system

The cleaning and disinfection system is used to clean and disinfect empty bottles/cans to ensure that the containers are clean and hygienic. It usually includes a spray device, a dryer, etc.

Beer Bottling Process

• Cleaning and Sterilizing Beer Bottles

Before bottling, it is important to ensure that the bottles are clean and free of contamination. Cleaning involves removing any labels, debris, or residual beer from the bottles. This step is crucial, as any residue will negatively affect the taste and quality of the beer. Sterilization is necessary to kill any remaining bacteria or wild yeast that could ruin the beer. There are a number of methods you can use to sterilize the bottles, such as using a sterilizing solution or boiling them in water. Thoroughly cleaning and sterilizing the bottles will greatly reduce the risk of odors and infection, ensuring your beer remains fresh and delicious.

• Beer Bottle Filling and Capping

Once the bottles have been cleaned and sterilized, it’s time to pour your delicious beer into them. Using a bottling bucket or siphon, carefully pour the beer into each bottle, leaving some headspace to allow for carbonation. This step requires precision and patience to ensure each bottle is filled to the proper height. Never overfill, as this can cause excessive pressure and potentially cause the bottle to explode. Once filled, securely seal each bottle with the closure of your choice (pry top, screw cap, or cork). The type of closure you choose depends on personal preference and the type of beer you’re bottling.

Choosing the Right Beer Bottles

Having the right equipment is key to a successful beer bottling experience. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced brewer, there are some essential tools you need to ensure the bottling process goes smoothly. When it comes to beer bottling, precision and efficiency are of the utmost importance. The equipment you choose can have a significant impact on the final product.