Fermentation Equipment
Fermentation is the most important step in the Distillation Process, as that is where your Ethanol gets created, where your Flavors get created, and where your Aroma's get created.
There is no way a Distiller can produce a good quality product if there is not a good quality Fermentation to start with.
In order to make a good quality Fermentation, we not only require a good Recipe and good Raw Materials and Ingredients, but also the right Equipment.
What is important when choosing Fermentation Equipment?
1. The Size of the Fermentation Vessel
The Fermentation Vessel Size should be in line with the Still Boiler Size for ease of use, and on a Commercial Level we normally Double or Quadruple the Fermentation Tank Size to allow for savings in the initial Capital Expenditure, and cheaper future expansion.
2. The Material of the Fermentation Vessel
Stainless Steel or Plastic Fermentation Tanks are utilized in Commercial Distilleries.
Choosing between the two you have to consider factors like Aesthetics, Life Expectancy, Cost, Cleaning and Sterilization, Adaptations, Temperature Control, etc.
3. The Shape of the Fermentation Vessel
Ideal Fermentation Vessels should be Round to allow for Convection Currents during the Fermentation Process, and either Domed or Conical at the bottom to allow for Sedimentation.
4. Attachments and Adaptations to the Fermentation Vessel
The addition pr inclusion of features to the Fermentation Vessel like Level Indicators, Sample Valves, Drain Valves at Multiple Levels, CIP Nozzles or Spray Balls, Cooling Coils or Cooling Jackets, Thermometers, CO2 Release Valves, etc.
What other Equipment will I need for Fermentations?
When you are a Home Distiller or Hobby Distiller you will operate on a much smaller scale than Commercial or Craft Distilleries, but the same principles apply. Items like Bubblers or Airlocks, Temperature Strips, Straining Cloths, etc. will always be needed or come in handy.
Additional Equipment needed by Commercial or Craft Distillers for Fermentation includes items like Pumps, Pump Hose Kits, and everything related to the Fermentation Tank Cooling Systems - Cooling Hose Kits, Automated Temperature Control Units, and so forth.
