There is no “best” heat source. We make beer equipment that works with all kinds of heat sources according to our customers’ needs. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages, as outlined below. In general, gas fired systems are more likely to be optimal for home brewers and small commercial operations. Electric is most likely to be optimal for small commercial systems (2 to 10 bbls), and steam heat is most likely to be optimal for larger systems. You can learn more about the advantages and disadvantages below.
1)Electric Heat
—Advantages:
Highest efficiency: 100% of heat generated is transferred to the water or wort
Excellent control of the brewing process. Tiantai beer equipment control systems provide pinpoint accuracy in temperature control.
Predictable cost
No concerns about carbon monoxide, open flames or explosive gases
Cost effective at 2 to 15 bbls
Can be highly automated if desired
—Disadvantages:
Cost of electricity is typically higher than gas, but it is often offset by much better efficiency
Up front cost is usually higher than gas fired, but lower than steam boilers and steam piping
Your building needs to have enough amperage available to heat the kettles and operate everything else (varies according to the system size)
2)Direct Fired Gas
—Advantages:
Can be lowest upfront cost (depending on installation)
Many brewers are accustomed to gas fired kettles
Some brewers prefer the caramelization that can occur with gas fired systems
—Disadvantages:
Probably the highest long term cost – gas is typically only 25% to 50% efficient
You will likely need to provide make-up air and provide an exhaust system for your direct fired gas system. (your city may require a professional mechanical engineer to provide a plan for your building and installation)
Some buildings will need fire suppression systems
In some states (e.g., CA and TX), the emissions regulations and requirements on gas burners result in significant added costs and reduced efficiencies
3)Steam Heat
—Advantages
When combined with gas fired boiler, you get good (but not best) efficiency and low energy cost
—Disadvantages
Highest cost of brew kettles and heat source (boiler system)
Generally, not very cost effective at a small scale
In some countries, the emissions regulations and requirements on gas boilers result in significant added costs and reduced efficiencies
Learn more how Tiantai beer equipment company to not only produce the best quality brewery equipment for flavor-rich beers, but also help them to optimize the configuration, maximize process uptime and reduce beer loss when they brewing, PLEASE DON’T HESITATE TO CONTACT WITH US!
Hubert
Email: [email protected]
