A More Sustainable Brewing Process for Microbrewing Based on Verticality and the Reuse of Energy
Major
Biology
Department
Geosciences
Degree
Undergraduate
Mentor
Alice L. Jones
Mentor Department
Geosciences
Recommended Citation
Weakley, Philip, "A More Sustainable Brewing Process for Microbrewing Based on Verticality and the Reuse of Energy" (2016). University Presentation Showcase Event. 35.
https://encompass.eku.edu/swps/2016/undergraduate/35
Abstract
A great amount of time and energy is put into making alcohol but what would happen if the energy costs for producing this product was cut down to the minimum with the same quality of production; how could that happen? A proposed 3D conceptual model for a brewing operation was constructed demonstrating how energy loops and energy redistribution can be used throughout the steps in the brewing process to reduce overall energy use. The model also demonstrates how to make use of natural energy production methods such as gravitational forces and solar power. Although it will still need energy fed into it, verticality takes a large amount of power needs out of the equation while also providing an easy way to move liquid through the process. The energy that is needed can be supplied by solar power and heat-energy conversion technologies that can reuse excess heat for power. This reworked energy can then be redistributed to other sections of the process or for heating or cooling purposes. While energy is always good for recycling, water is a major factor in brewing and also can be reused to heat and cool in a more efficient way or from preheating vats to being used as a filter for CO2 from fermenting so it can be used in the canning process.
Presentation format
Other
Poster Number
049
A More Sustainable Brewing Process for Microbrewing Based on Verticality and the Reuse of Energy
A great amount of time and energy is put into making alcohol but what would happen if the energy costs for producing this product was cut down to the minimum with the same quality of production; how could that happen? A proposed 3D conceptual model for a brewing operation was constructed demonstrating how energy loops and energy redistribution can be used throughout the steps in the brewing process to reduce overall energy use. The model also demonstrates how to make use of natural energy production methods such as gravitational forces and solar power. Although it will still need energy fed into it, verticality takes a large amount of power needs out of the equation while also providing an easy way to move liquid through the process. The energy that is needed can be supplied by solar power and heat-energy conversion technologies that can reuse excess heat for power. This reworked energy can then be redistributed to other sections of the process or for heating or cooling purposes. While energy is always good for recycling, water is a major factor in brewing and also can be reused to heat and cool in a more efficient way or from preheating vats to being used as a filter for CO2 from fermenting so it can be used in the canning process.
