The Fastest Way To Heat Your Brewery

Steam Heating

Steam jackets use steam to heat the vessel walls, which then transfers heat to the liquid inside. This makes steam heating a common choice for large commercial breweries. It provides uniform heating and precise temperature control.

Steam heating offers a maximum surface-to-liquid ratio. Combined with the high energy transfer to the process, it can heat the wort to extremely high temperatures, making boiling at the end of lautering a breeze. They are also very energy-efficient, resulting in lower operating costs when combined with natural gas. Furthermore, most local authorities require expensive permits and inspections to operate steam generators/boilers, which can increase brewery startup time.

Advantages of Steam Heating

• A fast heating method for large breweries.

• Short boiling time.

• When combined with a gas boiler, you can achieve good (but not optimal) heating efficiency and reduce energy costs.

• Easier to clean than electric heating.

Disadvantages of Steam Heating

• Because it requires the construction of a boiler system and steam system, it is the most expensive heating method.

• Equipment for small breweries is generally not cost-effective.

• In some countries, steam generators/boilers must be inspected and operated by local governments, and substantial permits and inspection fees are required.

Direct Fire Heating

Direct fire heating is a popular choice for homebreweries and small commercial breweries. Direct fire heating involves mounting a powerful gas burner on the outside of the brew kettle. The burner projects a forced-draft flame onto a baffle or diffuser that encloses the combustion chamber below the kettle. This design reduces the risk of scorching while providing excellent temperature control and a steam-like heating rate. Forced-draft burners emit low nitrogen oxides and are efficient, safe, and versatile.

Advantages of Direct Fire Heating

• Space savings.

• Craft breweries can start with minimal upfront costs.

• Some brewers prefer the caramelization effect this system produces.

  
  

Drawbacks of Direct Fire Heating

• Gas heating efficiency is typically only 25% to 50%, making it potentially the most expensive heating method.

• Rapid heat dissipation.

• Some craft breweries require a fire suppression system.

• Construction and installation restrictions.

• Difficult to clean.

Electric Heating

Electricity is the simplest heating method for a brewery. Electric heating elements are used in electric brewing systems. They are highly efficient and known for maintaining precise temperature levels. While they may take longer to heat up than gas burners, they provide consistent and reliable heating.

Electric heating systems are a popular choice for commercial brewing systems ranging from 200 to 1000 liters. Electric heating systems incorporate heating tubes within the brew kettle to ensure maximum heating efficiency. 100% of the heat generated by electric heating is transferred to the water or wort. This heating method is common in homebrewing systems and small commercial breweries, and it allows for temperature control.

Advantages of Electric Heating

• An efficient heating method for small brewery equipment.

• Effective cost-effective for breweries with a capacity of 200L-1000L.

• Excellent temperature control during brewing.

• Predictable costs.

Disadvantages of Electric Heating

• Electric heating costs are generally higher than steam heating.

• The initial cost of the equipment is generally higher than direct fire heating, but lower than steam heating.

• Electric heating heats up slowly, which can increase your brewing time.

• After brewing, the electrical components need to be removed for cleaning.

Which brewery heating method is best?

Electric heating is suitable for breweries with a capacity of 1-10 bbls.

• The first advantage is the highest energy conversion rate, as 100% of the electricity is converted into heat to heat the wort/water.

• It is a more cost-effective option than steam and gas heating because it requires no auxiliary equipment or infrastructure investment.

• There is no need to worry about carbon monoxide, open flames, or explosive gases

• The site requires an adequate power supply. After all, a 10 bbls brew kettle requires approximately 50 kilowatts, which is ideal for breweries with a capacity of 5 bbls or less.

Direct-fire heating is the ideal heating method for small breweries with 5-10 bbls.

• Caramelization can preferably be performed using a gas system.

• This avoids the high investment of a steam generator and addresses the on-site power requirements of electric brewing equipment.

• However, due to its lowest energy conversion efficiency (approximately 20-50%), it may be the most expensive option in the future.

• Some fire protection infrastructure is required, and government approval may be required.

• Some regions have strict emission regulations, so you need to check with the burner supplier to ensure compliance.

Steam heating: A professional heating method for commercial breweries.

• Optimal process and quality control, especially during the mashing phase, such as heating and holding.

• Direct-fire steam generator heating is recommended for better energy conversion efficiency and lower costs.

In Summary

For large commercial breweries, steam jacket heating is preferred due to its heating efficiency and controllability. Electric heating, due to its high heating capacity, is more suitable for smaller breweries. Regardless of which method you choose, be sure to follow safety guidelines and closely monitor the heating process to avoid burning or other issues that could affect beer quality.