Through the adoption of sustainable industrial gas solutions breweries can reduce their reliance on carbon dioxide (CO2). Here Andrew Butler, business development manager for Industrial Gases at Atlas Copco UK, outlines how on-site nitrogen generators and advanced process filtration systems, breweries can address rising costs, supply disruptions and net zero goals while maintaining product quality and operational efficiency.
In recent years, CO2 supply chain disruption has posed significant challenges for breweries, forcing some to reduce or stop production, and in certain cases, even driving smaller microbreweries out of business.
With rising CO2 costs and ongoing supply issues, many brewers are turning to nitrogen as a viable alternative for a variety of applications, including purging tanks and kegs, canning, kegging, and vessel transfer.
Unlike CO2, nitrogen is abundant and cost-effective, providing a stable, inert atmosphere that prevents oxidation, preserves beer quality, and maintains the freshness and flavour of the brew.
By making the switch to nitrogen, brewers can enhance both efficiency and sustainability, while ensuring a consistent, high-quality product. Embracing on-site nitrogen generation can mitigate CO2 supply challenges, helping to reduce reliance on external suppliers, streamline operations, and contribute to long-term sustainability goals.
Enhancing Nitrogen Efficiency for Brewing Operations
As brewers continue to look for ways to optimise their operations, upgrading to a more efficient nitrogen generation system can offer valuable benefits.
Newer models, such as the Atlas Copco NGP+ and NGPs generators, incorporate innovative features like the Variable Cycle Saver (VCS) algorithm, which adjusts to reduce energy consumption during lower demand periods, helping to lower overall operating costs.
These advanced systems also provide more precise control over nitrogen purity levels, ensuring the highest quality for brewing processes.
Process Filtration for Breweries
In modern breweries, effective filtration is key to maintaining consistency, hygiene, and efficiency throughout the production process.
Atlas Copco provides various types of filtration systems, such as pre-filtration, depth filtration, and sterile filtration, to be strategically employed at different stages of the brewing process, from clarification to final packaging. By removing suspended solids, yeast, proteins, and other unwanted particles, filtration helps brewers achieve the desired taste, appearance, and shelf life of their beer, as well as meeting regulatory standards.
Our technology is helping both multinational brewers like Birra Peroni, which uses oil-free ZR air compressor technology, and independent craft brewers such as Whitewater Brewery in Northern Ireland. For Whitewater Brewery, the switch to on-site nitrogen generation has reduced its dependence on CO2, helping the company save approximately £35,000 annually.
Atlas Copco’s expertise extends beyond nitrogen generation. The company also provides compressed air systems that meet stringent air quality standards for every step of the brewing process, from fermentation to bottling. Meanwhile, energy-efficient process chillers can help brewers maintain stable temperatures, preserving the flavour and quality of the beer.
Whether you operate a microbrewery or a large brewing operation, Atlas Copco’s solutions offer a significant reduction in operational expenditure while boosting productivity and sustainability.
