Festo, one of the world’s leading processing solutions providers, was showing off its innovations at the Craft Brewers Conference and BrewExpo America in Washington, D.C., last week. Specifically, the company was showcasing automation components and systems that make brewing processes repeatable and outcomes consistent and high caliber, and we all want that, right?
The Festo VZXF angle seat valve communicates with process controllers to automatically regulate the flow of liquids and gases in the clean-in-place process. Customers such as brewing systems suppliers, tank and systems manufacturers, engineering companies and brewery operations personnel can order a single VZXF and other Festo automated valves as single units or in groups with a pre-assembled valve manifold for faster installation.
The Festo MS-series modular air preparation system ensures that compressed air meets breweries’ stringent purity requirements. MS air preparation modules filter compressed air and keep it free of taste-effecting contaminants during wort aeration. Other cleanliness applications include filtering air that blows out lines between batches and drying bottles and cans prior to filling.
Products in the Festo Clean Design portfolio of automation components are engineered to function in harsh wash down environments. These Festo products feature smooth surfaces and the absence of dirt traps. Food-safe grease and FDA approved materials are hallmarks of the portfolio as are corrosion resistant materials that prevent premature failure. Festo features the MPA-C valve manifold that can be mounted out in the open near valves for more effective and energy-efficient operation.
The company’s downloadable brochure, A 6-pack of innovations for Craft Beer, provides an overview of brew-centric solutions, including:
- Customized process control cabinets
- Solutions for keg and vessel cleaning
- Simple and cost effective controls
- Compressed air quality
- Automated flow control
- Automated clean-in-place
- Fast, assured product shipping
- Online design tools
