Breweries of different sizes handle spent grains in lauter tun differently. Various approaches to managing spent grain and optimizing brewing efficiency are available, ranging from hands-on processes in small breweries to advanced automation in larger facilities. Each approach has its benefits and challenges that should be carefully considered.
Small Breweries:
In brewpubs and small breweries, it is common for automation levels to be lower. Once the lautering process is complete, brewers manually open the spent grain door and use a rake to push the grains towards the door. They then manually shovel the spent grains into baskets or trolleys. Due to the small batch sizes, the collected grains are often treated as waste.
Medium to Large Breweries:
Large Breweries equipped with advanced automation control systems streamline the spent grain management process, minimizing manual involvement. Once the liquid level sensor detects the completion of lautering, a series of automated steps are initiated, including the opening of the bottom outlet valve and deployment of the rake. The rotating knife is then used to push the grain down. Breweries often utilize a spent grain hopper to temporarily store and regulate the rate of spent grain transportation.
The spent grains are conveyed by mechanical or pneumatic means to an external spent grain silo, typically located off-site.
Monetizing Waste:
Breweries that have large amounts of spent grains have the opportunity for additional revenue through the sale of spent grains to farms and secondary processing businesses. This not only contributes to waste reduction but also adds a potential income stream for the brewery.
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