How a new process control system and smart upgrades are making the brewing process faster, easier, and more cost-effective.
How can you install a completely new process control system while operations are ongoing and still retain as much of the existing drive technology as possible? Quite simply, by implementing a system that works with—rather than against—the existing infrastructure.
”"The Dr. Anthon control system, installed in the mid-1990s, had been causing problems for quite some time."
Martin HaberkornBraumeister
A 5-unit brewhouse spread over five floors, each of which had at least one control cabinet and, in some cases, completely outdated and incompatible components. On top of that, there were the Dr. Anthon control systems with InTouch visualizations, which could no longer be upgraded. Here, everything was literally designed to work against each other, not to mention the lack of optimal communication between the levels.
Modernize what works, save costs.
As early as the initial assessment, it quickly became clear to us that we could largely retain the existing drives and control cabinets and, with just a few modifications, bring the proven motor controllers up to standard. This optimizes feedback to the system while simultaneously saving on the costs of new installations.
Automation concept
Our automation concept addresses the areas where the old control system was too unreliable and prone to errors.
Future-Ready communication
Our process control system is based on a new central Siemens industrial PC and Simatic S7-300 controllers equipped with a CPU and an Ethernet connection for optimal signal and data transfer.
Transparent process control technology
The newly integrated SIMATIC WinCC visualization system, along with our planemos technology features, make parameterization easier, simplify operation, and provide greater clarity.
Greater investment security
The automation system helps refine beer recipes, improve brewing processes, and save energy. At the same time, it makes it easier to integrate and replace components.
”"You can tell that technology has come a long way these days."
Uwe SchulzDipl. Braumeister Stadtbrauerei Spalt
Shift starts at 5:00 a.m. instead of 3:00 a.m. That’s what we call progress.
The new automation system makes things much easier for the brewmaster, as he can now flexibly intervene in the brewing process from anywhere. This means it’s now also possible to start multiple batches at the same time. The program runs faster, and the automated system continues to operate without stopping. Time savings of seven to 15 minutes per batch mean more batches per day and, consequently, more time for other important tasks.
