A large tank used for fermentation can have a variety of technical features. For example, it can be constructed from stainless steel and incorporate chloride ions as insulation. To prevent corrosion, stainless steel tanks must be protected with a layer of chloride inhibiting material before insulation is applied. The type of insulation used varies from company to company. Some companies use polyurethane foam, while others use phenolic foam, which is less flammable than polyurethane foam. The thickness of insulation also varies.
If you are planning to use your large tank for fermentation for a long time, stainless steel tanks are a good choice. They are relatively inexpensive to purchase and are often produced locally. This means you will not have to incur expensive shipping fees. Also, stainless steel tanks retain their value well. This means that if you decide to sell it in the future, it will still be worth a lot.
Large tanks used for fermentation often have multiple cooling jackets. Proper placement of cooling jackets is critical for achieving homogeneity and proper movement of the beer during the fermentation process. These cooling jackets help to prevent CO2 evolution from forming powerful currents in the beer. As a result, a large tank with cooling jackets can promote better circulation and faster fermentations. It is important to choose the right cooling jacket for the size and shape of your fermentation tank.
The temperature range in a fermentation tank can vary from seven to fifteen degrees Celsius. Some tanks have a valve out at the bottom and a manway on the top. Other tanks are carbonated and include a carbonating stone, spray ball, and valve out at the bottom. This helps to keep the fermentation process efficient and reduce the overall cost of production.
When choosing a large fermentation tank, make sure it has a mesh holder so as not to introduce contamination during fermentation. Another option is to use a stainless steel keg, which is highly suitable for larger ferments. Kegs are also a good choice as they are often available with an airlock and bung. The stainless steel kegs will not break, which is essential for long-term aseptic operation. Alternatively, you can also use food-grade plastic barrels with an airlock. These can be purchased from most brewing suppliers.
Another consideration is temperature. In larger fermenters, the temperature must be carefully controlled. In addition to regulating the temperature, you may also want to consider sterilization. The temperature must be properly controlled so that the fermentation does not spoil. Many large fermenters use external heat exchangers to maintain temperature. In addition, wine making that is being used for research and teaching purposes will typically be done in cold rooms. These environments allow for many replications and comparisons.
Fermentation tanks can also be made more automated. Some of these automated tanks can be programmed to do daily punch-downs and pump-overs. The technology behind these machines has become increasingly advanced and is becoming common in wineries.
