BrauBeviale live: KHS introduces “one-stop-shop” system for beer membrane filtration

29 Nov 2023 --- KHS is presenting its “cutting-edge” innovations at BrauBeviale as the beverage industry returns to Nuremberg, Germany, from November 28 to 30, after a four-year hiatus. 

The process engineering giant is introducing a membrane filtration system for beer. The new technology complements KHS’ existing beer stabilization system, providing a “one-stop-shop” solution for brewery filtration needs. 

In a strategic move to address the interface between the fermentation cellar and the filling line, KHS has developed the Innopro Ecoclear. Tobias Cherdron, the process engineering product manager at KHS, speaks to Packaging Insights about the system on the show floor.

“Membrane filtration is a new approach to filtration in the brewing industry where we use no filtration agents. So, we have no physical waste on the faucet to get rid of,” Cherdron explains.

“Further, this membrane potential, in particular, is designed modularly so that we have the best access to all maintenance parts. With the height of modern engineering electronics, you can disassemble the system without additional effort.”

The membrane filtration system marks a decisive addition to KHS’s portfolio, offering a sustainable alternative that eliminates the need for filtration agents, contributing to a cleaner brewing process. 

The Innopro Ecoclear introduces a modular membrane filter design that enhances flexibility.Proven systems vs. innovations
KHS’ latest addition, the Innopro Ecoclear, introduces a modular membrane filter design that enhances flexibility. Comprising four modules processing up to 72 hectoliters per hour each, this innovative system allows for continuous flow, keeping the liquid in constant motion during filtration.

While acknowledging the benefits of the older diatomaceous earth system Innopro Getra ECO precoat filtration, the product manager notes: “You don’t have to constantly supply the line with beer, for instance. With the help of diatomaceous earth filtration, users are more flexible regarding production planning and product quality.”

The Innopro Getra ECO system can filter up to 1,000 hectoliters of beer per hour and has proven its efficiency in separating haze substances and ensuring optimal beverage quality. The main distinction is that diatomaceous earth is utilized in a batch process. 

In this method, only a specific quantity of beverage can be filled before the system, causing filtration to pause for approximately three hours. During this break, diatomaceous earth and yeast are extracted backward through the filter vessel to clean and restart the process. According to Cherdron, “this is an intermittent filter system.”

Conversely, cleaning membrane filtration modules is simpler as yeasts are efficiently flushed out. Three modules operate simultaneously in each system, while the fourth undergoes a cleaning cycle. This differential switching between modules ensures a consistent supply to downstream equipment. 

“The aim is to provide a continuous beverage supply through filigree modularization. The amount scheduled for stabilization and subsequent further processing stays the same,” Cherdron shares.

Beyond the advantage of reducing buffer volume, the modular system minimizes the installed membrane surface area. While membrane filtration can be used in batch operation to meet specific requirements, Cherdron emphasizes the efficiency of the modular system’s components, stating: “We can make use of standard components for this machine. This allows us to give our customers fast service, such as replacing spare parts.”

Other displays 
In addition to its advancements in filtration technology, KHS is showcasing its commitment to environmental sustainability with Nature MultiPack secondary packaging. The company is also expanding its universal adhesive, initially introduced for the beverage can segment, to PET bottles.

KHS’s BrauBeviale exhibit holds the modular Innofill Glass DRS ECO filling system at the booth’s center. The machinery lets less oxygen into the beer and consumes up to 60% less CO2.

The company’s offerings also extend beyond physical products, including digital service products such as intelligent systems for remote diagnosis and maintenance and a range of virtual training courses.

By Radhika Sikaria, with live reporting by Natalie Schwertheim at BrauBeviale