All Grain Brewing Vs Extract Brewing: Equipment and ...

When I first started homebrewing I started with extract brewing. It&#;s a great way to get into the hobby without spending a lot of money on equipment. Extract brewing in general is a lot simpler to understand and perfect for amateur homebrewers and beginners. That&#;s not to say extract brewing can&#;t produce high-quality award-winning beers. The average person would have a very difficult time discerning between an extract or all-grain brew.

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All Grain Vs Extract: The Basic Difference

Beer is made with water, grains, hops, and yeast. Simply put, the main difference between extract and all-grain is how the fermentable sugars are acquired in the brewing process. All grain is the traditional method for brewing beer, and also the process professional breweries adhere to.

In all-grain brewing, the brewer uses crushed malted grains and mashes with very hot water to convert starches into fermentable sugars. In extract brewing, this process has already been done for the brewer and is added in syrup or powdered form. Suppliers produce extracts so homebrewers can choose to skip the conversion process for simplicity&#;s sake.

All grain brewing offers more control to the brewer and comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Your brew day will be longer and you&#;ll likely need some additional equipment to account for the extra steps.

As an avid cook, I&#;d compare all grain vs extract to making brownies from scratch vs from a box. Both methods make delicious brownies, however, one is a just add eggs approach while the other requires the time and patience to start with flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and so on. A more complex understanding of baking is already required.

The below chart is an oversimplified process comparison between all-grain and extract. While they may look similar, it&#;s worth noting that all-grain brewing will add about 1.5 hours to the brewing process. Extract brewing will bypass about an hour or more of mashing.

Extract Brew ProcessAll-Grain Brew Process1. Steep specialty grains in bag at 160°F for 20 minutes in the brew kettle1. Mash grains in strike water for 1 hour at 145-158°F water in mash tun2. Remove grain and stir in extract2. Sparge/rinse grains with 168°F water (this step is system dependent)3. 60-minute boil with hop additions3. Transfer all fermentable wort to boil kettle4. Cool wort, pitch yeast, and ferment4. 60-minute boil with hop additions5. Cool. pitch yeast, and ferment2-2.5 hour brew day3-5 hour brew day

Extract Brewing

Extract comes in two different forms. Dry malt extract (DME) and liquid malt extract (LME). Both are mixed with strike water and boiled for 60 minutes with your typical hop editions as outlined above.

Liquid Malt Extract vs Dry Malt Extract

LME is made by taking previously mashed wort and dehydrating it until there is about 20% water remaining. LME takes on a molasses-like color and syrupy texture.

DME on the other hand takes the same process as LME even further and dries the extract out until about 2% water remains. The final result is a fine powder.

LME goes through a less rigorous production process so it&#;s said to be a better alternative to dry. I&#;ve used both and always have found dry extracts easier to work with and a lot less messy, especially when measuring out specific amounts and variations for my own recipes.

Equipment

With extract brewing, you need an entry-level homebrewing kit along with a single 7-10 gallon vessel for boiling your wort (assuming you&#;re making a standard 5-gallon batch).

Pros and Cons of Extract

Pros:

• Easy to do and perfect or beginners
• Minimal cost and equipment to get started
• Less time consuming

Cons:

• Less control of recipe/ingredients
• LME/DME is more expensive than grains

All Grain Brewing

All grain brewing is the process of making beer from scratch with crushed grains. Crushed grains are soaked in strike water for 1 hour to extract the grain&#;s sugars, typically in a range of 145-158°F. This process is known as mashing. Depending on the style and characteristics of the beer will dictate the mash temp. In general, lower temps yield dryer beers, higher temps yield sweeter finished beers. The wort is drained from the mash tun, leaving the spent grains behind, and transferred to the boil kettle. From here the boiling process would start.

Equipment

All grain brewing can be achieved in single, dual, or even 3 vessel systems. Below are 3 popular configurations. Each comes with its own advantages and disadvantages and range from affordable to very expensive depending on how complex the system is configured.

Single vessel or brew in a bag (BIAB): This process is the most similar to extract brewing where the entire brewing process takes place in a single brew kettle. Grains are mashed in a large, fine mesh grain bag that can be pulled out of the kettle leaving the fermentable wort behind with no trace of grain. If you wanted to jump right into all-grain without the hefty equipment bill, this would be the option for you.

2 vessel systems: One kettle is used strictly for mashing and the other is used for boiling. My 2 vessel system eliminates the need for a grain bag or having to lift it out of the kettle before boiling. Lifting 14 pounds of hot wet grains out of a kettle can be difficult without proper equipment.

3 vessel systems: The most advanced homebrewing system utilizing 3 separate vessels. One for heating strike and sparge water, one for mashing, and one for boiling. There are simple 3 vessel systems and much more complex RIMS and HERMS systems that give the brewer maximum efficiency and the greatest precision and control during the brewing process.

You can read a more in depth overview of popular all grain systems.

Pros and Cons of All Grain

Pros:

• Less expensive ingredients
• Greater control over the entire brew process
• Brewing like the pros do

Cons:

• More time consuming
• More complex and greater margin for error
• Start-up costs are usually higher depending on what you do

Conclusion

Both all-grain and extract brewing can produce award-winning beers. An experienced brewer can absolutely blow the doors off a lesser all-grain brewer. My advice would be to start with extract to get a foundational understanding of the brewing process before taking the leap to all-grain.

If you plan your equipment properly it won&#;t end up costing you any more in the long run. My biggest piece of advice would be to purchase a large enough brew kettle to brew both extract and all-grain recipes. Look for 10 gallons at a minimum. It may be on the larger side for extract batches, but it will be the perfect size for all-grain should you decide to make the switch.

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The 18ni300 is a popular beer brewing system used by many craft and homebrewers. This comprehensive guide provides an overview of the 18ni300 system, its key features, specifications, pricing, and tips for choosing the right model.

Overview of the 18ni300 Beer Brewing System

The 18ni300 is a single vessel brewing system designed for 10-15 gallon batch sizes. It is an all-in-one electric brewing system that allows users to mash, boil, and ferment beer in one container.

Some key features of the 18ni300 system include:

• 304 stainless steel construction for durability and easy cleaning
• All-in-one design reduces equipment needs and setup time
• Economical option for breweries looking to scale up from small batches
• Electric heating elements for consistent mash and boil temperatures
• Programmable controller for automating steps and temperatures
• Recirculation capability for improved efficiency and clear wort

The 18ni300 system aims to provide an affordable intermediate option between small stove-top kits and large professional brewing systems. It is ideal for homebrewers looking to brew larger batches as well as nanobreweries or brewpubs producing up to 3 BBL per batch.

The all-in-one design reduces equipment needs, setup time, and complexity compared to brewing with separate mash tuns, kettles, and fermenters. The electric heating and automated controller improves consistency and frees up the brewer&#;s time during the mash and boil.

While more labor intensive than a fully automated brewhouse, the 18ni300 system allows brewers to produce pilot-scale batches with quality and repeatability. The compact footprint also makes it a good option for small spaces.

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18ni300 Equipment Guide

The 18ni300 brewing system consists of the following key equipment components:

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Mash/Lauter Tun

• 10-15 gallon stainless steel tank used for mashing grains and lautering wort.
• False bottom helps filter grain particles during sparging.
• Recirculation port for vorlaufing wort to clarify.
• Drain valve for transferring wort to the boil kettle.

Boil Kettle

• Stainless steel kettle matched to the main tun volume.
• Electric heating elements safely heat wort to boiling temperature.
• Solenoid valves can be added for automated transfers.

Fermenter

• Typically a separate stainless steel conical fermenter is used.
• Allows transferring yeast and fermenting under pressure if desired.
• Glycol jacket or temperature control for ideal fermentation temps.

Control Panel

• Control box with PID controller, switches, and temperature probes.
• Automates heating and cooling during mash and boil.
• Can program strike temp, mash steps, boil time, etc.

Pumps

• Centrifugal pumps for moving liquid between vessels.
• Recirculation pump for mash/lauter tun.
• Wort transfer pump.

Chiller

• Wort chiller using cold water or glycol to quickly cool boiled wort.
• Allows pitching yeast at optimal fermentation temperature.

Other Accessories

• Grain mill for crushing malted grain.
• Hoses, valves, fittings, filters, tubing.
• Sanitation chemicals and cleaning equipment.
• Racking cane, tubing, carboy for bottling.

18ni300 System Specifications

The 18ni300 brewing system is available in different sizes and power configurations to match batch targets, space, and power supply limitations.

SpecificationDetailsBatch Size10-15 gallonsConstruction304 stainless steelDimensionsVaries by model, approx. 24x24x25 inchesPower208-240V, up to 20kWHeating ElementsElectric heating rods, -WPump Size1/6 to 1/2 HP centrifugalControllerPID temperature controller with timerMax Temperature212°F boiling tempMax Pressure15 PSI
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The size of vessels, heaters, and pumps can be customized based on production goals and space constraints. More powerful heating elements and pumps allow larger batch sizes and faster heating times.

18ni300 System Pricing

Pricing for the 18ni300 system can range from $4,000 to $10,000 depending on size and configuration options:

ComponentPrice RangeMash/Lauter Tun$ &#; $Boil Kettle$500 &#; $Control Panel$500 &#; $Pumps$200 &#; $600 eachGrain Mill$100 &#; $500Chiller$200 &#; $Fermenter$500 &#; $Total System$ &#; $10,000

Additional costs may include shipping, installation, valves, fittings, filters, and other accessories. Outfitting a complete brewery with the 18ni300 system can run from $ up to $15,000 including fermenters, chilling, bottling, etc.

Buying complete pre-built systems from a brewery equipment supplier generally costs 20-30% more than sourcing individual components separately. However, it saves a lot of time and effort in design and assembly.

Applications and Uses of the 18ni300

The 18ni300 brewing system is well suited for:

• Pilot brewing &#; Test new recipes and techniques at scale
• Small batch brewing &#; Produce specialty beers in batches under 5 BBL
• New nanobreweries &#; Launch a craft brewery with minimal capital
• Brewpubs &#; On-premise brewing for restaurants and bars
• Homebrewing &#; Larger 10-15 gallon batches for competitions, events
• R&D / R&D &#; Trial and sample new ingredients and processes
• Education &#; Teach brewing science and operation skills
• Brew-on-premises &#; Custom batches for customers in stores

The automated electric heating and controls make the 18ni300 a significant upgrade over basic homebrew kits. The added consistency and process control provides capability to brew higher quality beers.

For professional breweries, the system allows increasing production in small increments while testing new recipes. It is a flexible semi-automatic option in between pilot systems and large brewhouses.

How to Choose an 18ni300 Brewer System

When selecting a 18ni300 brewing system, here are some key considerations:

Batch size &#; Match system tank and heating capacity to target batch sizes. Scale up ceiling by 25%.

Power available &#; Ensure adequate power supply for heating elements and pumps.

Degree of automation &#; More valves and sensors increase automated control but also cost.

Space limitations &#; Measure area and choose compact models if constrained. Allow 50-75% more space for workflows.

Budget &#; Weigh spending more upfront for quality equipment that will last vs. starting lean.

Supplier experience &#; Select an established brewery equipment manufacturer with technical support.

Customization &#; Order systems pre-assembled or customize individual components to needs.

Quality components &#; Don&#;t skimp on critical parts like pumps, chillers, valves that impact beer.

Expandability &#; Consider ability to expand batches in future by upgrading individual vessels.

Warranties &#; Ensure all parts have warranty coverage for defects and repairs.

Prioritize equipment quality, power, and automation initially as upgrading later is more difficult. Get quotes from multiple suppliers before purchasing.

Understanding the 18ni300 Beer Brewing System 4

18ni300 Brewing System Pros and Cons

Advantages

• Lower capital cost than larger brewhouse
• Larger batches than homebrewing kits
• All-in-one system simplifies processes
• Electric automated heating for consistency
• Programmable controller frees up brewer time
• Stainless steel for easy cleaning and sanitation
• Recirculation for clear wort and better efficiency
• Small footprint suitable for tight spaces

Disadvantages

• Manual interaction still required compared to full automation
• Max batch size limited by vessel volumes
• May require electric or plumbing upgrades
• Additional equipment needed for fermentation, bottling
• Requires lifting grain bags and ingredients
• Not ideal for continuous back-to-back brewing
• Requires cleaning and maintenance between batches

The 18ni300 achieves a good balance between automation, batch size, and capital cost. While not as hands-off as a large brewhouse, it produces larger, more consistent batches than basic homebrewing kits.

Carefully evaluating goals, space, budget, and growth plans will determine if the 18ni300 hits the sweet spot before considering very large or fully automated systems.

Tips for Operating an 18ni300 System

Here are some tips for effectively operating a 18ni300 brewing system:

• Follow all manufacturer safety guidelines and local electric codes
• Develop detailed recipes and processes before brewing
• Use a brewing software to calculate ingredients, water volumes, temps, timing
• Take detailed notes each batch to improve consistency
• Clean and sanitize all equipment thoroughly before and after use
• Install grain mill properly with correct gap setting between rollers
• Use quality malts and hops for best results &#; don&#;t skimp on ingredients!
• Measure out water and heat to strike temp before doughing in grain
• Monitor and adjust temperatures carefully during mashing
• Vorlauf wort until clear before lautering to kettle
• Use Irish moss, whirlpool, and chiller for clear wort into fermenter
• Aerate wort well before pitching sufficient yeast
• Control fermentation temp for clean yeast profile
• Add finings and condition beer before packaging

Invest in high quality ingredients, take detailed notes, follow checklists, and aim to improve each batch. Consistency and sanitation are critical when scaling up recipes.

18ni300 Brewing System Maintenance

To keep a 18ni300 brewing system running smoothly:

• Check heating elements regularly for scale buildup and replace if needed
• Inspect pumps and valves for wear and leaks, replace gaskets/seals as needed
• Verify grain mill gap setting monthly and adjust rollers as needed
• Disassemble and clean ball valves, sprayballs, and fittings between batches
• Backflush pumps and hoses with PBW after transferring
• Remove and clean false bottom and screens regularly
• Check controller calibration annually and recalibrate if required
• Lubricate pumps and motors according to manufacturer
• Inspect electrical terminals and connections for corrosion
• Have electrician check power supply and grounding annually
• Immediately fix any leaks in welds, gaskets, fittings
• Keep a spare parts kit on hand &#; gaskets, heating elements, switches
• Follow chemical supplier guidelines for cleaning and sanitizing

Preventative maintenance reduces unexpected downtime and improves beer consistency. Budget approximately 5-10% of system cost annually for maintenance and repairs.

Choosing an 18ni300 System Supplier

When selecting a supplier for an 18ni300 brewing system, look for:

• Reputable manufacturers &#; Well-known brands with proven reputation
• Experience with systems &#; Specialized in breweries, not general fabrication
• Customization capabilities &#; Ability to modify to your needs
• Turnkey packages &#; Offer complete systems not just individual vessels
• Local representatives &#; Installation, service and support
• Field expertise &#; Personally advised on equipment specified
• References &#; Existing brewery customers that give feedback
• Certifications -Licensed, insured, meet codes and regulations
• Warranties &#; Equipment defects and replacement parts covered
• Shipping experience &#; Capability to securely ship tanks
• After sales service &#; Response time and availability for repairs
• Training &#; Provide equipment training for your brewers

Getting quotes from 3-4 reputable suppliers is advisable. Prioritize quality of equipment and capability to deliver complete working systems over lowest cost.

18ni300 vs Alternative Brewing Systems

How does the 18ni300 compare to other brewing equipment options in its class?

18ni300 vs HOMEBREW KITS

• Batch size &#; 10-15 gallons vs 5 gallons
• Process control &#; Automated vs manual
• Efficiency &#; Recirculation improves efficiency
• Consistency &#; Electric vs propane heating
• Quality &#; All stainless vs plastic fermenters
• Cost &#; $-$ vs under $

The 18ni300 allows brewing larger batches with much greater control and consistency than basic homebrewing kits using pots and propane burners.

18ni300 vs PILOT BREWING SYSTEMS

• Automation &#; Semi-auto vs fully automated
• Batch size &#; 10-15 gallons vs 1-3 BBL brewhouses
• Footprint &#; Compact vs larger floorspace
• Cost &#; $-$ vs $50,000+
• Labor &#; Some hands-on vs turnkey

Pilot 1-3 BBL brewhouses offer full automation and continuous brewing in the same footprint at a much higher price point.

18ni300 vs PRO BREWING SYSTEMS

• Batch size &#; 10-15 gallons vs 7-30 BBL+
• Automation &#; Semi-auto vs turnkey
• Expandability &#; Modular vs monolithic
• Labor &#; Hands-on vs push-button
• Cost &#; $-$ vs $250,000+

Large professional brewhouses have very high throughput but involve major facility expansion and investments.

The 18ni300 fits a niche between basic homebrew equipment and large commercial brewhouses in terms of scale, automation, cost and labor. It allows a bridge between small batch hobby brewing and professional nano or microbrewery operations.

Understanding the 18ni300 Beer Brewing System 5

FAQ

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the 18ni300 brewing system:

Q: What size batches can the 18ni300 produce?

A: The 18ni300 is designed for 10-15 gallon batches. With additional vessels and equipment, it can be expanded to produce up to 3 BBL (93 gallons).

Q: Does the system require plumbing connections?

A: Most models recirculate the wort and do not require hooking up to water lines. However, a water line may be needed for the wort chiller or cleaning.

Q: What electrical requirements are there?

A: The system requires a 220V power supply and may need 30-50 amp service depending on heating elements and pump sizes.

Q: What maintenance is required?

A: Cleaning and replacing gaskets/seals should be done regularly. Heating elements may need replacement after 1-2 years. Pumps and motors need occasional lubrication.

Q: Can different grains and recipes be brewed on it?

A: Yes, the automated temperature control allows dialing in different mash profiles and recipes. Any grain bill or hops can be used.

Q: Can the 18ni300 be left unattended during operation?

A: No. As a semi-automated system, the brewer&#;s active involvement is required throughout the brewing process for best results.

Q: How long does it take to produce a batch of beer?

A: Typically 1-2 days including: mashing (1-2 hrs), lautering (1 hr), boiling (1-2 hrs), cooling (1 hr), fermenting (1-2 weeks), packaging (1-2 hrs).

Q: How much headspace should tanks have for boilover?

A: At least 15% headspace is recommended in the boil kettle so boilovers don&#;t clog the condenser.

Q: Can the system be upgraded to pilot scale capacity?

A: Yes, with more vessels and upgrading some components the system can expand up to 3-5 BBL production scale.

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