Global Pumps have long provided a diverse range of pumps to the brewery industry. Given the nature of the product, the application demands hygiene and gentle pumping to ensure the integrity of the beer.
In this blog, our team identify the top pumps for your brewery and in what applications they are ideal.
Peristaltic Hose Pumps
Peristaltic pumps are simple in design but effective in the brewing process. These pumps operate through the principle of ‘peristalsis’, with alternating compressions on the hose drawing content in and propelling the product away from the pump. A rotor passes along the hose which creates a temporary seal between the suction and discharge sides of the pump. As this rotor turns, this sealing pressure continues to move along the hose, which forces the product to move away from the pump, towards the discharge line.
A distinct advantage for peristaltic hose pumps in brewing is its hygienic operation - with the hose or tube the only part of the pump that meets the product. Not only does this ensure the integrity of your product, but it ensures no cross-contamination.
Most importantly, peristaltic hose pumps provide a gentle, low-shearing pumping action which ensures its suitability for viscous fluid handling. In the brewing process, these pumps are also suitable for ‘bubble-like’ characteristics of yeast.
Real world application
Global Pumps worked with Range Brewing in Brisbane to find a solution for extracting yeast from their brewing process. Our team suggested the Verderflex Dura Hose Pump given its ability to handle slurries and other liquids with a high percent of solids, and that it can effectively and efficiently operate with manual intervention. Discover ‘Range Brewing’s path of yeast resistance’ here.
Air Operated Diaphragm Pumps (AOD)
AOD Pumps are classified as positive displacement pumps (like peristaltic hose pumps) and use two flexible diaphragms that reciprocate back and forth. This creates a temporary chamber which works to draw in and extract the fluid through the pump. The two diaphragms act as a separation wall between the air and the liquid.
Diaphragm pumps are ideal for transferring liquids at lower temperatures. Although problematic for some applications in brewing, these pumps are ideal for moving cooled wort into the fermenters, or for pumping beer from primary to secondary fermenters, or into kegs for carbonation. Their self-priming abilities make them an excellent choice for these applications.
Centrifugal Pumps
Centrifugal pumps are capable of handling large quantities of fluids and provide high flow rates. These pumps can handle high temperatures for hot wort transfers and recirculating the mash.
Other brewing pump considerations
Besides the pump’s characteristics, it is important you consider the technical specifications of the pump. Before purchasing, it is critical you ensure the pump is food grade. This allows you to safely transfer food and beverage products, without the risk of contamination or bacteria harboring.
Although materials of construction are crucial, the temperature rating should also be considered as this will ensure that whatever goods you are pumping can be handled by the pump itself - without causing any internal damage.
Need some help with your brewing pumps?
Do you own your own brewery and need to replace or improve your pumping system? Get in touch with Global Pumps! Our team have worked with Australia’s leading breweries and implement effective and efficient pumping systems. If you want to see these for yourself, check out our case studies with Range Brewing and Lady Burra Brewery.
