Trailblazer | Ziemann Holvrieka GmbH from Ludwigsburg has developed a revolutionary process for mash filtration with Nessie by Ziemann. At the same time, it opens the door to a completely novel process for wort preparation. The Omnium by Ziemann brewing process, celebrating its world premiere at drinktec 2017 and installed in a new brewhouse for the first time, is the result of an interdisciplinary research and development project. The medium-sized Schlossbrauerei Reckendorf in Franconia is at the forefront. This article provides a technical portrait and first results.

Alternative | The market for gluten-free food is growing contin-ually, up 25 per cent in 2015 alone. Several methods are well-established for producing gluten-free beer. However, most methods are detrimental to the brewing process, product quality and legislation. Use of malt enzymes may be a potential alternative.

Energetic optimisation | The first part of this article (BRAUWELT International No. 5, 2018, pp. 345-349) discussed the question of what kind of process design is the most suitable one for a brewery. In conclusion, clear advantages of the batch process over continuous process variants were found.

The Neutraubling-based manufacturer of filling and packaging solutions has acquired MHT Holding AG (MHT). MHT, based in Hochheim, Germany, together with its subsidiaries is providing injecting molding tools and services to the PET industry. The company generates approximately EUR 25 million revenues with 125 employees.

Based on the result of the first nine months of 2018 and the forecast for the fourth quarter, Krones reduces its turnover and earnings forecast. Due to rising costs of goods and labour, start-up expenses and one-time costs for the expansion of the global footprint, the Neutraubling-based company now expects an operative EBT margin of approximately 6.5% which is adjusted for the one-time expenses. The previous target was 7%.

View into the future | Modern-day brewers are just as aware of their craft’s time-honoured traditions as they are receptive to new processes and techniques, which serve to either improve the quality of their beloved beer or help to reduce the costs of making it. So any changes are subjected to meticulous scrutiny before a decision is taken to strike out in a new direction.

Multi-functional | When designing small breweries, proven systems installed in large breweries are usually downsized. The patented brewhouse concept described in this article takes a different approach to design a simple, flexible and efficient system for brewhouse sizes from about five to 50 hectolitres/brew.

Krones, one of the world’s leading manufacturer of filling and packaging technology, has acquired the business operations and assets of Shanghai Xiantong Equipment Installation effective 1 September 2018. The Chinese company has been a partner and supplier to the German company in the field of process technology for many years. Krones Taicang has partnered successfully with Xiantong on the production, installation, and commissioning of process technology equipment for the past 20 years in order to best serve the local market. For example, Krones’ first MicroCube compact brewhouse was manufactured by Xiantong.

Well equipped | The glass glimmers with coppery tones, topped with a fine foam head, the scent of ripened red fruits and caramel promising a symphony of delicious flavors – it’s no wonder, craft beer is on everyone‘s lips. However, most people talking about craft beer today are usually referring to the end product. But the technology behind a successful craft beer shouldn’t be overlooked. We met with Oliver Jakob, GEA Product Manager and a trained brewer himself, who is responsible for the craft beer equipment at GEA’s Kitzingen site in Germany. During our talk it became clear that the craft trend has influenced not only the way we talk about beer, but also the methods used to manufacture the brewing equipment.

The BACnet Testing Laboratories, BTL for short, have confirmed that the automation software zenon by Copa-Data complies with the criteria of the BACnet standard. Entry onto the international list of products conforming with the standard and receipt of the BTL certificate affirm the reliable communication between zenon and other systems and devices in building automation.

Hygienically beyond reproach | Bright beer tanks serve as a direct link between the lager cellar and the filling area and thus represent a particularly sensitive area of a brewery from the standpoint of hygiene. Knowing how much beer is available for packaging is also very important as is being able to establish how much beer is left in a buffer tank after filtration is finished. An ultrasound-based method of measurement as well as a combination management system for determining the volume can be of assistance here.