Why Use The Rotech Keg

Rotech Keg data shown as screen graphs of temperatures, pressure, liquid contents – measured inside the keg (the only place it matters). Rotech details the rates of filling , emptying & clamp status. Each graph is a comprehensive instrumented record of every detail of the line operation, good and bad – of cleaning, disinfection, & filling. The data supports the brewer.  Rotech Keg History Allied Breweries conducted an in-depth investigation into the correct keg sterilization process, which significantly enhanced their understanding of the importance of steam and pressure metrics. This investigation focused on several key aspects:

• High-Pressure Saturated Steam: The use of high-pressure saturated steam was identified as a critical factor in ensuring effective sterilization. Saturated steam, which is steam at its boiling point for a given pressure, was found to be highly effective in killing microorganisms, including bacterial endospores.
• Steam Quality and Temperature: The quality and temperature of the steam were closely monitored. It was determined that steam must be at the correct temperature and free from air pockets to ensure thorough sterilization. Low steam temperatures or poor steam quality could lead to inadequate sterilization.
• Pressure Metrics: Maintaining the correct pressure within the kegs during the sterilization process was essential. Proper pressure ensured that the steam could penetrate all areas of the keg, effectively killing any contaminants. Negative pressure or variations in pressure could compromise the sterilization process.
• Monitoring and Control: The investigation highlighted the importance of continuous monitoring and control of the sterilization process. Using electronic test kegs and other monitoring equipment allowed Allied Breweries to collect data and make necessary adjustments to ensure optimal sterilization conditions.

By focusing on these factors, Allied Breweries was able to develop a robust keg sterilization process that ensured the highest standards of hygiene and quality for their products. Allied wanted to reduce the time required to assay test samples of its beer and reasoned that understanding and controlling the temperature and steam parameters within the kegs during cleaning and filling would significantly reduce the risk of contamination.

Rotech’s Role

Rotech Swindon played a pivotal role in developing a monitoring keg system in collaboration with Allied Breweries. Rotech worked to provide Allied with an understanding of what was going on inside a keg during cleaning and filling. This work, which dates back to 1988, allowed Rotech to create a sophisticated system that could provide detailed insights into the keg cleaning and filling processes.