Presenter: Jeremy Hauser, Pentair Sudmo, Delavan
Increasing product quality, which in turn increases shelf
life, is a continuous goal for brewers. Piping systems used
for beer transfer can have a negative effect on beer quality
as it can introduce oxygen (O2) through manual connections
and open piping systems. This presentation will look at
different valve options to prevent O2 pick up to increase plant
efficiency and reduce operating expenses in breweries. It will
look at advantages and disadvantages of current systems that
are available and discuss an under tank matrix system that
overcomes all of the disadvantages of the present systems.
It will also discuss control-top technology for monitoring
the valve system to ensure safe brewery operation. Swing
panels were, and still are, used widely to route product and
cleaning solutions through brewery piping systems and has
the advantage of lower investment costs. However, operational
costs are considerably more with it than an automated system
because it is very operator dependent. It is also much more
difficult to clean and to eliminate O2 pick up in a swing-bend
system. The first matrix systems were standard manifolds that
were positioned at the tank or in a central location. In recent
years a new generation of piping system was introduced that is
particularly suited to the brewing industry and eliminates many
of the problems associated with the traditional valve matrixes,
e.g., long pipelines between the vessel and the valve manifold
are eliminated; as valves are close coupled to the vessel the
problems of bacteria growth in the outlet pipes is eliminated;
reduced space requirements; reduced investment costs; reduced
O2 pick up; reduced product losses; and ease of installation
with reduced costs. The matrix valves are used in conjunction
with the IntelliTop control unit to ensure safe operation of the
process. The IntelliTop monitors the valve position and gives
continuous feedback to the control system for monitoring
purposes. If the IntelliTop sends an alarm signal to the control
system, the system will be set in a safe position to ensure the
safety of product and personnel. There is also a clear visual
signal from LEDs that are fitted to the top of the control head
that easily identifies the valve position or fault mode. During
maintenance of the valve matrix a lockout feature is available
to protect maintenance and operation personnel from contact
with cleaning chemicals or other harmful liquids. The mix
proof valve matrix system gives brewers the best possible
piping option for their brewing vessels. Not only does it have
lower investment and operating costs, it also ensures the highest
quality product with the lowest possible O2 content, which will
result in longer beer shelf life. Brewers around the world are
embracing this technology as it gives them many benefits over
conventional systems.
Jeremy Hauser, technical manager at Pentair Südmo, a
supplier of process components and solutions to the brewing
and beverage industries, has been involved in the automation
of beverage and food plants for the past 13 years. He has
been very active in advancing mix proof valve technology to
increase plant efficiencies and reduce downtime. A member of
MBAA, he attends regional meetings and training classes. He
holds a bachelor’s of mechanical engineering degree from the
University of Illinois.
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