Malt crushing device and malt crusher

Abstract

The utility model discloses a malt crushing device and a malt crusher. The device comprises a central stand column connected with a base of the malt crusher; the N stirring paddles are uniformly distributed around the central stand column, the heights of the N stirring paddles relative to the base are h1, h2,..., hi,..., hN respectively, h1 > h2 > hi > hN > 0, N > i > = 3, and N > = 4. According to the utility model, the malt crushing efficiency is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of beer production, specifically to a malt crushing device and a malt crusher. Background Technology

[0002] In beer production, malting is a crucial step that directly impacts subsequent saccharification and fermentation processes. Traditional malting often employs a fixed agitator structure. While this performs basic stirring and mixing, the design limitations of the agitator restrict the downward pressure and mixing effectiveness. This results in a relatively high water-to-malt ratio (water-to-malt ratio) in actual production, typically reaching 1:3. This not only reduces extraction efficiency but also leads to waste of subsequent washing water and loss of extractables from the wort.

[0003] Currently, when faced with high water-to-material ratios and leachate loss, manufacturers often resort to measures such as increasing water volume and stirring intensity. However, these measures do not fundamentally address the design flaws of the mixing device. The mixing impellers in related technologies typically employ a symmetrical 180-degree angle structure, the length and number of layers of which are insufficient to meet the demands of efficient pulverization. This not only leads to unstable operation of the production equipment but also increases the difficulty of cleaning and maintenance, ultimately impacting overall production efficiency.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a new design scheme for malt grinding equipment that can improve mixing efficiency, reduce water-to-material ratio, increase leaching efficiency, reduce leaching loss, and maintain stability during equipment operation to meet the growing market demand. Utility Model Content

[0005] This utility model provides a malt crushing device and a malt crusher to solve the problem of low stirring efficiency in malt crushing in related technologies.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, a malt crushing device is provided, comprising: a central column connected to the base of the malt crusher; and N stirring paddles evenly distributed around the central column, wherein the heights of the N stirring paddles relative to the base are h1, h2…hi…hN, and h1>h2>hi>hN>0, where N>i≥3 and N≥4.

[0007] Preferably, the N stirring paddles are connected to the central column by welding; the top of the central column is a regular hexagonal nut, and the bottom of the central column is threaded onto the external threaded screw protruding from the bottom impeller of the malt grinder; wherein, driven by the rotation of the impeller, the N stirring paddles generate downward pressure, causing the mash in the malt grinder to enter the impeller more quickly.

[0008] Preferably, N = 4, and the included angle between the N stirring paddles is 90 degrees.

[0009] Preferably, the N stirring paddles have a spiral structure.

[0010] Preferably, the surfaces of the N stirring paddles are provided with an anti-stick coating.

[0011] Preferably, the diameter of the central column is set according to the strength and weight of the N stirring paddles.

[0012] Preferably, the length of each of the N stirring paddles is 7 centimeters.

[0013] According to another aspect of the present invention, a malt grinder is also provided, comprising: the above-mentioned malt grinder device.

[0014] This invention optimizes the flowability of the mixed mash during malt grinding by increasing the number of stirring paddle layers in the malt grinding device, thereby enhancing the downward pressure and improving wort extraction efficiency while reducing raw material and water consumption. Furthermore, the improved stirring paddles reduce the equipment's operating load, improve its stability, and minimize downtime caused by high liquid level alarms, ultimately enhancing production continuity and efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0015] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the present invention and form part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention and, together with the description thereof, serve to explain the present invention and do not constitute an undue limitation thereof. In the drawings:

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a malt grinding device according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0017] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0018] This embodiment provides a malt grinding device. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a malt grinding device according to an embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 1 As shown, the device includes: a central column 1 connected to the base of a malt grinder; and N stirring paddles 2 evenly distributed around the central column. The heights of the N stirring paddles relative to the base are h1, h2…hi…hN, where h1>h2>hi>hN>0, and N>i≥3, N≥4.

[0019] Through this embodiment, the improved structure of the stirring paddle in the malt grinding device, by increasing the number of stirring paddle layers, optimizes the fluidity of the mixed mash and enhances the downward pressure, thereby improving the wort extraction efficiency while reducing the consumption of raw materials and water. Furthermore, the improved stirring paddle design reduces the operating load of the equipment, improves its stability, reduces downtime caused by high liquid level alarms, and ultimately enhances production continuity and efficiency.

[0020] Specifically, N agitators are evenly distributed around the central column, with the height of each agitator gradually decreasing (h1>h2>hi>hN>0). This ensures uniform mixing of the mash within the grinder. Higher agitators (e.g., h1) primarily act on the upper layer of mash, generating stronger mixing force, while lower agitators (e.g., hN) act on the lower layer, ensuring that the lower layer of mash is also adequately mixed. The different heights of the agitators effectively stratify and mix the liquid according to its flow characteristics, thereby improving overall mixing efficiency.

[0021] On the other hand, it can improve fluid dynamics performance. The different heights of the stirring paddles ensure that each layer of mash is subjected to appropriate stirring force. This layered design can reduce the accumulation of liquid inside the grinder, improve the flowability of the mash, reduce the phenomenon of liquid accumulation, thereby accelerating the flow of mash and improving the overall transfer efficiency and mixing uniformity.

[0022] Secondly, it can enhance transfer efficiency. As the height of the agitator gradually changes, the agitator at the higher position provides a greater stirring force, which can break the surface tension of the liquid and improve the degree of mixing. Meanwhile, the agitator at the lower position can accelerate the flow of liquid at the bottom, preventing stagnation and effectively pushing the liquid downwards and accelerating the conveying process of the bottom impeller. This helps the mash to quickly enter the bottom impeller, improving transfer efficiency.

[0023] In addition, it can uniformly accelerate the flow of mash: as the height of the agitator decreases sequentially, the pressure differences generated at different positions of the agitator will cause the mash to form a more uniform flow direction within the pulverizer. In this way, the effects of agitators at different heights complement each other, improving the fluidity of the mash, avoiding slow local liquid flow, and thus improving the overall mixing efficiency and processing capacity.

[0024] In summary, this embodiment optimizes stirring and flow performance by adjusting the height distribution of the stirring paddle, improves mixing effect and mash transfer efficiency, and ultimately achieves a more efficient production process and lower energy consumption.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, N stirring paddles are connected to the central column by welding; the top of the central column is a regular hexagonal nut, and the bottom of the central column is threaded onto the external threaded screw protruding on the bottom impeller of the malt grinder; wherein, driven by the rotation of the impeller, the N stirring paddles generate downward pressure, causing the mash in the malt grinder to enter the impeller more quickly.

[0026] This implementation method, by welding multiple agitators to a central column, allows each agitator to work synergistically under the drive of the impeller, increasing the mixing area and efficiency. This design optimizes the flow path of the mash, resulting in more uniform mixing and improving wort extraction. Furthermore, it increases downforce; the downward pressure generated by the rotation of the N agitators effectively accelerates the downward flow of the mash, reducing the time the liquid remains in the grinder. Guided by this downforce, the mash enters the bottom impeller more quickly, improving transfer efficiency and ensuring more efficient wort transfer.

[0027] It's worth noting that this design improves production stability. The threaded connection between the agitator and impeller ensures a more secure connection, reducing production fluctuations caused by equipment instability. Furthermore, the increased downforce helps reduce liquid buildup, thus decreasing the occurrence of high-level alarms and shutdowns requiring water flushing, improving equipment stability and production efficiency. Additionally, it optimizes the water-to-material ratio. More efficient stirring and accelerated mash flow effectively reduce water usage during the grinding process, lowering the water-to-material ratio. This not only improves wort extraction efficiency but also conserves water resources and reduces production costs.

[0028] Preferably, N=4, and the included angle between the N stirring paddles is 90 degrees. In this preferred embodiment, the design of N=4 and the included angle between the stirring paddles is 90 degrees. By optimizing the distribution of stirring force, improving liquid flowability, and reducing equipment load, it effectively improves the overall working efficiency and stability of the crusher, ultimately achieving more efficient production, lower energy consumption, and more stable equipment operation.

[0029] For example, when N=4 and the angle between the agitators is 90 degrees, the four agitators are evenly distributed around the central column, forming a symmetrical layout. This layout ensures a uniform distribution of stirring force, with each agitator acting on the mash in a different direction, enhancing the overall stirring effect and avoiding localized liquid stagnation or accumulation caused by uneven stirring.

[0030] On the other hand, it optimizes mixing efficiency. The 90-degree angled design creates a quarter-circle layout between the agitators, allowing each agitator to act on the mash from different directions. This helps break down surface tension between the liquids and promotes more uniform mixing. This design significantly improves the fluidity of the liquid and enhances mixing efficiency, especially when handling large volumes of mash, accelerating the uniform mixing and transfer of materials.

[0031] When N=4 and the included angle is 90 degrees, the flow guidance effect is enhanced: the 90-degree interval formed by the four agitators around the base effectively guides the flow of the mash. Each agitator generates a certain downward pressure during rotation, ensuring that the mash flows smoothly to the bottom impeller and accelerating the transfer of liquid to the impeller. The evenly distributed agitators reduce resistance in the liquid flow, improve the fluidity of the mash, and thus increase production efficiency.

[0032] Secondly, it reduces the load on the equipment. Evenly distributed impellers reduce the load on each impeller. Compared to traditional unidirectional or unevenly distributed designs, a 90-degree angle between the four impellers disperses the load, allowing the equipment to operate more efficiently with lower energy consumption. Simultaneously, this symmetrical impeller design helps improve equipment stability, reducing vibrations or instability caused by uneven loads during operation.

[0033] On the other hand, it can improve the control of the water-to-material ratio. Through optimized paddle layout and uniform mixing, the water-to-material ratio can be effectively reduced. This not only improves wort extraction efficiency but also reduces water and energy consumption during production, contributing to a more efficient and economical production method.

[0034] During production, it can improve production continuity and stability: due to the uniform distribution and angle design of the agitator, the equipment can operate under relatively stable conditions, reducing equipment failures or downtime caused by uneven mixing or unbalanced load, thereby improving the stability of the production process and ensuring the continuous operation of the production line.

[0035] Preferably, the N stirring paddles have a spiral structure. This preferred embodiment reduces liquid retention and uneven mixing, thereby improving the overall operating efficiency, stability, and production capacity of the malt grinder. This design not only helps to reduce the water-to-material ratio and improve wort extraction efficiency, but also effectively reduces raw material waste and equipment failure, thereby lowering production costs and optimizing the continuity of the production process.

[0036] Preferably, the surfaces of the N agitator blades are provided with an anti-stick coating. The application of the anti-stick coating significantly reduces the adhesion of the mash to the agitator blade surfaces, preventing material from adhering to the blades during agitation. This not only helps ensure complete liquid transfer during each agitation process but also reduces the reduction in production efficiency caused by adhering material.

[0037] Preferably, the diameter of the central column is set according to the strength and weight of the N stirring paddles.

[0038] This preferred embodiment ensures structural stability. The diameter of the central column is set based on the strength and weight of the N agitator blades, which helps ensure the structural stability of the entire mixing system. If the agitator blades are strong and heavy, the column needs to have a sufficient diameter to withstand the load and pressure generated during blade rotation. Otherwise, the column may bend or deform, affecting the normal operation of the equipment and the mixing effect. A suitable diameter can improve the structure's resistance to bending and deformation, ensuring stable operation of the agitator blades.

[0039] Secondly, it can improve the safety of the agitator operation. A suitable column diameter ensures that the central column will not be damaged or unstable due to excessive load when the agitator rotates at high speed. Especially when handling heavier or stronger agitators, an excessively small column diameter may lead to uneven rotation or even equipment failure. By adjusting the column diameter according to the strength and weight of the agitator, structural failures can be effectively prevented, ensuring the safe operation of the equipment.

[0040] On the other hand, energy transfer can be optimized. The diameter of the central column also affects the mechanical properties of the agitator during rotation. A suitable column diameter provides sufficient support, allowing the agitator to efficiently convert the motor's power into mixing force. A diameter that is too small may cause the column to deform under excessive load, thus affecting energy transfer efficiency. By rationally selecting the column diameter, energy transfer and conversion can be optimized, enabling the agitator to achieve efficient mixing with lower energy consumption while maintaining stability.

[0041] On the other hand, it can also reduce mechanical damage and friction to some extent. A properly sized central column can reduce additional friction and mechanical wear caused by mismatched structures. By reducing friction, energy loss can be reduced, extending the equipment's lifespan. This not only improves production efficiency but also lowers the cost of maintenance and parts replacement.

[0042] During production, production efficiency can be optimized: when the diameter of the central column is matched with the strength and weight of the agitator, equipment instability or reduced efficiency due to overload can be avoided. This allows the equipment to maintain a stable operating state for a longer period, preventing production cycles from being affected or malfunctions caused by instability, thus ensuring higher production efficiency. It also improves load distribution uniformity. A properly set column diameter allows the load on each agitator to be more evenly distributed throughout the mixing system, avoiding overload or pressure concentration in any area. This not only improves the equipment's working efficiency but also extends its service life.

[0043] Preferably, the length of each of the N stirring paddles is 7 centimeters.

[0044] In beer production, the agitator is used to mix the malt and wort. If the agitator is too long, it may increase the shear force on the liquid during mixing, leading to excessive foaming or over-mixing, which affects the quality of the wort. If the length is too short, it may not provide sufficient mixing force, resulting in uneven mixing of the wort and affecting the malt extraction rate. The 7 cm length (increasing the agitator length from 3.5 cm to 7 cm) provides just the right amount of mixing force, ensuring sufficient contact between the malt and the liquid, improving the mixing effect, and thus improving the quality of the final product.

[0045] In summary, the 7 cm mixing paddle length demonstrates significant technical benefits in improving mixing efficiency, optimizing energy consumption, enhancing equipment stability, and extending equipment lifespan. This design helps improve overall production efficiency, reduce equipment load, and ensure uniform and stable material mixing during the production process.

[0046] This embodiment provides a malt grinder, including: the malt grinding device of the above embodiment and its preferred embodiment, which will not be described again here.

[0047] In summary, through the above embodiments and their preferred embodiments, a malt grinding device and a malt grinder are provided. By providing a malt grinding device, the redesign of the stirring paddle, including its size and layout, enhances the stirring capacity and downward pressure of the paddle within the effective load range of the backwash pump motor. This allows the mash to enter the backwash pump more quickly and be pumped into the saccharification pot, improving mash transfer efficiency and reducing the total water volume during grinding. This lays the foundation for reducing hot-end extract loss. To a certain extent, the improved stirring capacity of the paddle and increased downward pressure on the mixed mash reduce the water-to-material ratio and the amount of water used for grinding, freeing up more space for washing wastewater. Using more washing wastewater improves washing efficiency and reduces extract in the mash, thus lowering product costs. It also reduces the unit cost of water, electricity, and heat consumption. Furthermore, the lower extract concentration in the discharged wastewater reduces the pressure on the wastewater treatment system.

[0048] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0049] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this utility model and is not intended to limit the utility model. Various modifications and variations can be made to this utility model by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A malt grinding device, located within a malt grinder, characterized in that, include: The central column is connected to the base of the malt grinder; N stirring paddles are evenly distributed around the central column. The heights of the N stirring paddles relative to the base are h1, h2…hi…hN, and h1>h2>hi>hN>0, where N>i≥3 and N≥4.

2. The malt grinding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The N stirring paddles are connected to the central column by welding; The top of the central column is a regular hexagonal nut, and the bottom of the central column is threaded onto the external threaded rod protruding from the bottom impeller of the malt grinder. The N stirring paddles, driven by the rotation of the impeller, generate downward pressure, which accelerates the flow of mash from the malt grinder into the impeller.

3. The malt grinding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The N=4, and the included angle between the N stirring paddles is 90 degrees.

4. The malt grinding apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The N stirring paddles have a spiral structure.

5. The malt grinding apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The surfaces of the N stirring paddles are provided with an anti-stick coating.

6. The malt grinding apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The diameter of the central column is set according to the strength and weight of the N stirring paddles.

7. The malt grinding apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The length of each of the N stirring paddles is 7 centimeters.

8. A malt grinder, characterized in that, include: The malt grinding apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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