Stainless Steel Fermenters
Stainless steel fermenters are specially designed vessels used for fermenting beers, wines, ciders, and other fermented beverages. They allow efficient temperature control and cleaning while resisting corrosion.
Overview
- Made of stainless steel for corrosion resistance, durability, easy cleaning
- Available in different sizes from 5 gallons to larger commercial volumes
- Provide temperature control for optimum fermentation
- Some models have accessories like thermometers, airlocks, valves, stands
- More expensive than plastic fermenters but longer-lasting
Types of Stainless Steel Fermenters
| Type | Features | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Conical | Cone-shaped bottom allows sediment collection, ideal for ales, has racking arm | 5-15 gallons for homebrew, up to 120 gallons commercial |
| Cylindrical | Straight sides, uniform shape, often has cooling jacket, good for lagers, pressure fermentation | 3-30 gallons |
| Uni-tank | All-in-one fermenting, conditioning, serving, vertical design, customizable features | 5-30 gallons |
Design and Customization
Stainless steel fermenters have different design elements that can be customized:
| Feature | Description | Customization Options |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Common grades: 304, 316L stainless steel | Choose grade based on price, durability needs |
| Size | Depends on batch size | From 5 to 500 gallons usually |
| Shape | Conical or cylindrical are common | Conical better for ales, cylinder better for lagers |
| Lid | Secures top opening | Choose latched, screwed, pressure-sealed |
| Thermometer | Monitors interior temp | Analog or digital options |
| Cooling system | Controls fermentation temp | Integrated cooling jacket, glycol chiller, cooling band |
| Racking arm | Siphons clear beer from cone bottom | Rotating, telescoping, height-adjustable |
| Stand | Holds fermenter in place | Casters, adjustable legs, drip tray addon |
| Valves | Controls liquid outflow | Sample valve, bottom valve, pressure relief valve |
| Sight glass | Shows activity/sediment level | Plastic, glass or stainless |
Many accessories and valves can be added like airlocks, sampling thieves, cleaning adapters etc. Complete brewery control systems allow customization and automation.
Stainless Steel Fermenter Suppliers and Pricing
| Supplier | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Ss Brewtech | $500-$4000 |
| Spike Brewing | $450-$2000 |
| Blichmann Engineering | $350-$1500 |
| Keg King | $300-$900 |
Prices vary widely based on size, features, quality and brand. Commercial 120 gallon stainless conicals can cost over $5000. Small 5-10 gallon homebrew fermenters range from $300-$600 typically.
Choosing a Supplier
Consider the following when selecting a stainless fermenter supplier:
- Quality of stainless steel
- Ease of cleaning and maintenance
- Types of lids, valves, accessories available
- Temperature control features
- Customization and sizing options
- Cost for required capacity
- Warranties and customer service reputation
- Expert recommendations for application (homebrew vs pro)
Installation, Operation and Maintenance
Proper use and care ensures efficient fermentation and long equipment life:
| Task | Procedure | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Assemble stand, fittings, thermometer, accessories per instructions | Once |
| Cleaning | Hot PBW solution soak then rinse | Each use |
| Sanitizing | Chemical sanitizer as per manufacturer | Before each use |
| Operation | Set temp controller, ensure valves closed, monitor fermentation | Per batch |
| Maintenance | Inspect fittings, gaskets, seals, ensure cleaning | Periodic |
| Safety | Use caution handling hot liquids, ensure pressure relief works | Always |
Pros and Cons of Stainless Fermenters
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Durable, long-lasting | Expensive compared to plastic |
| Resists corrosion and staining | Heavy, not portable when full |
| Better temperature control | Overkill small homebrew batches |
| No transfer needed to secondary | Requires cleaning equipment |
| Easy to sanitize | Possible off-flavors from poor sanitation |
| Professional quality beer | Condensation causing rust risks |
Conclusion
Stainless steel fermenters are an excellent choice for homebrewers looking to make the jump to more advanced all-grain brewing as well as commercial breweries. Their durability and temperature control capabilities make them ideal primary fermenters. With proper cleaning and sanitation, stainless fermenters can help brew fantastically clear and clean-flavored beers. Their modular nature allows customization and scaling up system sizes as needed. Despite the higher cost, stainless fermenters are worth considering for their quality construction.
FAQ
Q: What size stainless steel fermenter should I get?
A: For homebrewing, 5-7 gallon fermenters are common. Get a larger 10-15 gallon fermenter if you brew high gravity beers needing more headspace or want to scale up. Commercial sizes range from 30 gallon uni-tanks to 120+ gallon conicals.
Q: How often should stainless steel fermenters be cleaned?
A: Clean thoroughly with PBW or alkaline cleaner after every use to prevent residue buildup. Also clean all valves, fittings, gaskets periodically.
Q: What temperature is best for fermenting with a stainless fermenter?
A: Optimum ale fermentation temperature is 68°F while lagers ferment best at 50°F. Quality stainless fermenters allow precise temp control for ideal fermentation with accessories like cooling jackets or chilling systems.
Q: Can stainless steel fermenters be used for sour beers?
A: Yes, but some choose dedicated stainless or plastic fermenters for sours to prevent beneficial microbes from contaminating other beers. Be extra diligent about cleaning and sanitizing before non-sour use.
