Craft beer brewing has exploded in popularity in recent years, with more and more small breweries opening up across the country. For these new breweries, having the right commercial brewing equipment is absolutely essential for producing quality beer efficiently. Electric brewing systems have become increasingly popular for craft brewers because of their precision, consistency, and ease of use.
This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the different types of commercial electric craft beer brewing equipment available and considerations for choosing the system that is right for your brewery. We’ll cover capacity options, design and layout, customization possibilities, top suppliers, installation needs, operation, maintenance requirements, and pros and cons of different systems. Whether you’re just getting started with planning your brewery or looking to upgrade equipment, use this resource to make an informed decision when investing in an electric brew system.
Commercial Electric Craft Brewing Equipment Types
There are a few main types of electric brewing systems on the market designed specifically for craft brewery needs. Here is an overview of the most common ones:
| Equipment Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Electric Brew-in-a-Box Systems | All-in-one systems with tanks, heating elements, pumps etc integrated. Pre-wired and plumed. |
| Electric Brew Stands | Modular stands to mount tanks and equipment like pumps and heat exchangers. |
| Custom Electric Brewery Buildouts | Fully customized systems designed for a brewery’s space and needs. |
The type of system that will work best depends on your production goals, budget, and layout constraints. Brew-in-a-box systems provide an easy plug-and-play option, while custom buildouts allow complete flexibility.
Commercial Electric Brewing Equipment Capacity
Determining the needed capacity for tanks and other equipment is one of the first steps in selecting an electric brew system. Common batch sizes for small to mid-size craft breweries are:
| Batch Size | Beer Production |
|---|---|
| 1 barrel (BBL) = 31 gallons | 155 gallons per batch |
| 3 BBL = 93 gallons | 465 gallons per batch |
| 7 BBL = 217 gallons | 1,085 gallons per batch |
| 15 BBL = 465 gallons | 2,325 gallons per batch |
| 30 BBL = 930 gallons | 4,650 gallons per batch |
The number and sizes of fermenters and brite tanks should align with batch sizes as well. Expansion capabilities may be important too.
Electric Brewery Design and Layout
Optimizing the floor plan and layout is crucial when installing a brew system. Considerations include:
| Design Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Brew house equipment placement | Logical equipment flow from mash tun to boil kettle. |
| Tank farm layout | Minimize pipe runs and pumping distances. |
| Grain handling | Allow for grain deliveries and storage. |
| Ingredient access | Easy access to yeast, hops, etc. |
| Workflow | Streamlined process from brewing to fermentation to packaging. |
| Cleaning and maintenance | Provide access for cleaning and maintenance of all equipment. |
| Expansion capabilities | Allow for potential additional tanks and equipment. |
| Utility requirements | Electricity, water, drains, compressed air, CO2, etc. |
Having an efficient and logical layout makes day-to-day brewery operations much smoother.
Customization Possibilities
One of the advantages of going with an electric brewery buildout versus an off-the-shelf system is the ability to customize. Some ways electric brew systems can be tailored include:
| Customization Options | Details |
|---|---|
| Tank sizes and material | Select specific tank dimensions and material like stainless steel. |
| Mash filtration | Choose plate-and-frame or centrifugal mash filters. |
| Brew kettle | decides copper brew kettle or stainless steel options. |
| Grist handling equipment | Specify grain mill, grist case, handling system. |
| Heating options | Electrity or steam heating for mash or hot liquor tank. |
| Piping | Determine piping layout and diameters. |
| Pumps | Select pumps for transfers, wort, knockout. |
| Instrumentation | Include specific meters, sensors, automation systems. |
| Grain handling system | Design grain room, silo, auger system. |
| Chilling system | Glycol, heat exchanger, or inline chilling system. |
Factor in room for future production increases too. A custom system can truly be tailored to a brewery’s operation.
Top Electric Brewery Equipment Manufacturers and Suppliers
There are many first-class manufacturers specializing in electric craft brewing equipment across the United States. Here are some top names to consider:
| Company | Location |
|---|---|
| Portland Kettle Works | Portland, OR |
| Specific Mechanical | Victoria, MN |
| Psycho Brew | Costa Mesa, CA |
| JV Northwest | Canby, OR |
| Pro Engineering | Minnetonka, MN |
| American Beer Equipment | Lincoln, CA |
| Premier Stainless Systems | Escondido, CA |
| AAA Metal Fabrication | Oregon City, OR |
| Ss Brewtech | Chico, CA |
| Pro Refrigeration | Bothell, WA |
Reputable manufacturers can provide recommendations on equipment specifications and design for your needs. Be sure to get quotes from multiple vendors.
Commercial Electric Brew System Costs
The investment for an electric craft brewery setup can vary substantially based on the system size and features. Here are some approximate price ranges:
| System Size | Price Range* |
|---|---|
| 1 BBL System | $50,000 – $150,000 |
| 5 BBL System | $150,000 – $500,000 |
| 10 BBL System | $350,000 – $1,000,000 |
| 20 BBL System | $700,000 – $2,000,000 |
Rough estimates – prices vary based on specific configurations and features
Financing options like equipment leasing and loans can help manage costs as well.
Installation and Site Preparation
Proper installation of the electric brewing system by the manufacturer is critical. Installation services typically include:
| Installation Steps | Details |
|---|---|
| Equipment inspection | Ensure all received equipment is intact and operational. |
| Equipment positioning | Place equipment according to floor plan. |
| Connections | Electrical, plumbing, glycol, compressed air. |
| Calibration | Calibrate sensors, meters, valves. |
| Pressurization | Pressure test system piping and vessels. |
| Cleaning and passivation | Flush system, passivate stainless steel surfaces. |
| Commissioning | Initial brewing trials to test the system. |
| Documentation | As-built drawings, equipment manuals. |
| Training | Instruction for brewers on operating equipment. |
Site preparation such as floor drains, electric, and plumbing may be needed. Get bids from multiple installers.
Operating and Maintaining an Electric Brewery
Running an electric craft brew system requires proper operating procedures and maintenance:
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Routine operation | Following SOPs for mashing, boiling, fermentation, transfers etc. |
| Cleaning | CIP procedures after brewing, prevent microbial growth. |
| Sanitization | Chemical sanitation prior to brewing, kill bacteria. |
| Calibration | Ensure accurate readings from meters and sensors. |
| Preventative maintenance | Regular upkeep tasks per manufacturer recommendations. |
| Breakdown maintenance | Corrective repairs as needed. |
| Record keeping | Track brewing processes, sanitation, maintenance. |
| Optimization | Improve processes over time, reduce downtime. |
Having detailed procedures and checklists for each activity is important for consistency. Maintenance helps prevent unexpected downtime.
Choosing an Electric Brewery Supplier
Selecting the right electric brewery equipment supplier for your needs is an important decision. Here are key factors to consider:
| Factor | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Reputation and experience | Established suppliers with proven track records. |
| Client portfolio | Success with systems for breweries similar to yours. |
| Qualifications | Licensed, bonded, insured. |
| Offerings | Range of equipment and service options available. |
| Customization capabilities | Flexibility to meet your specific needs. |
| Project management | End-to-end oversight from design to installation. |
| Training | Ability to train your team on using the system. |
| Warranty and support | Post-installation assistance and warranty terms. |
| Local presence | Proximity for support and shorter supply lines. |
| Relationship and trust | Selected supplier will be a long-term partner. |
Evaluate multiple proposals from suppliers before making a selection.
Pros and Cons of Electric vs Gas Brewing Systems
Both electric and gas-fired brewing systems have advantages and disadvantages to weigh:
| System | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Electric |
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| Gas |
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Electric brewing provides great efficiency and control for craft brewing needs. Gas systems can suit tight budgets despite drawbacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about commercial electric craft brewing equipment:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I reuse any of my existing brewery equipment? | Possibly, depending on condition and compatibility. Tanks and fermenters may be reused if properly cleaned. Consult your supplier. |
| What training is needed to operate an electric brew system? | Suppliers should provide equipment operation training. Having a brewer with commercial brewing experience is highly recommended. |
| How much space do I need for the system? | Space needs vary greatly by system size and layout. Allow ample room around tanks and equipment for access and workflow. |
| How long does installation and setup take? | Typically 4-12 weeks after equipment delivery depending on customization and contractor scheduling. |
| What are the yearly maintenance costs? | Budget approximately 5-10% of the equipment cost annually for preventative maintenance and repairs. |
| Are there options for buying used equipment? | Yes, but very careful inspection is required. Reputable dealers provide refurbished equipment. |
| Can I expand the system later? | Leave space for expansion or choose modular designs if future growth is planned. This provides flexibility. |