By Ben Shaw, Area Manager, Flextech Hose Solutions
A defective brewery hose can lead to severe consequences, including contamination and poor-quality brews. Such issues may incur fines, recall, and brand reputational damage so selecting the right hose is crucial for product integrity and operational efficiency.
When purchasing a hose for your brewery, it’s important to consider all factors that will affect its functionality – like the different types of media passing through them – whether alcohol, caustic or steam substances for cleaning, as well as temperature and pressure.
The market offers a variety of hoses differing in construction, quality, price, and purpose. Don’t be tempted by an off-the-shelf option, as this could incur long-term costs due to the risks associated with subpar products. To reduce the risk of hose failure, prioritise industry-specific needs focusing on the characteristics of the media to mitigate risks and avoid costly mistakes. While specialist hygienic brewery hoses may mean a higher initial investment, their quality and longevity justify the expense.
Butyl hoses are particularly effective as they are resistant to alcohol (to 96%) and caustic substances in cleaning applications. Unlike other types of rubber, butyl’s non-tainting properties make it a superior choice.
The lifespan of a butyl hose ranges from three to seven years, depending on application, care, and maintenance.
To extend its life:
- Avoid bending beyond its recommended bend radius.
- Don’t submerge in caustic solutions for more than 30 minutes.
- Never exceed the recommended dosage for caustic cleaning.
- Hang hoses after cleaning to allow moisture to drain completely.
- Use end caps to protect hoses from external contaminants when not in use.
Understanding the purpose of hoses and connections is vital. A knowledgeable supplier can guide on whether a suction, delivery transfer, crush-proof, or wash-down product is required. Size and length also play a critical role with brewery hoses ranging from 1” to 4” in internal diameter, and from one to 40 meters long.
Purpose-built hoses ensure longevity and preserve product quality but not all hoses like the Genuine Brewflex®®® range are manufactured in clean factories with stainless steel mandrels or food-quality releasing agents.
Buying cheaper options made of generic rubber can mean rubber deterioration which might disperse into the product causing contamination. Regular testing of hoses and connectors can be managed through professional on-site testing and inspection services to prevent problems.
Apply the STAMPED method to streamline hose selection:
- Size (Length & diameter)
- Temperature (Product / atmospheric)
- Application
- Media (Substance)
- Pressure
- Ends (Fitting type)
- Delivery (Urgency)
Also, consider whether the hose operates under pressure or vacuum, as this will also determine the type.
Temperature plays a crucial role; hoses should withstand temperatures up to 120 degrees to ensure safety and durability. Lastly, ensure the hose meets necessary standards, like FDA approval, ADI-free, BFR, CE marking, and compliance with relevant regulations. Sourcing from manufacturers that don’t meet stringent quality standards can result in compromised products.
Specialist brewery hoses preserve a product’s look, smell, and taste. Their role in the safe and efficient transportation of products is essential, making partnering with a bespoke industry supplier imperative to finding the right solution.
For more information, visit www.flextechhose.co.uk
