|
Abstract
Using coloured plastic beads, the flow of malt from malt bins was examined. Without any device to prevent it, the bin will funnel, i.e. it will empty in a last in, first out manner. Husk material will segregate and the last few brews from such a bin will contain abnormal amounts of husk. It was found that the installation of an offset pyramid in the base of the bin gave plug flow or first in, first-out characteristics. The pyramid was, in effect, a mirror image of the bin bottom, offset by 45 degrees, which thus reduced the effective open area of the bin bottom by 50%. Perfect plug flow was obtained so long as the bin remained 1/3 to 1/2 full but broke down when the bin was emptied. This was not a disadvantage in normal operation since the bin was only emptied for quarterly cleaning and fumigation.
Keywords: flow malt silo storage
|
