SWITCH

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a malting plant for the germination and kilning of grain. A malting plant may also include a steeping device. In particular, the disclosure relates to a modularly designed malting plant that allows the product batch (the production quantity per batch) to be adjusted incrementally, in particular to be increased.

[0002] Malting plants are used to produce the higher-value raw material malt from grain. This is then used to make products such as beer, spirits, or in the food industry.

[0003] When malting grain for the production of, for example, beer or whisky, the grain is typically first soaked with water and then germinated under controlled temperature and humidity conditions, being turned regularly during this process. To stop the germination process and preserve the malt, it is then dried by exposing it to hot air. This process is also called kilning. Depending on the production volume, facilities of varying sizes are used for this purpose.

[0004] To begin the malting process, water is added to the grain (barley, wheat, rye, etc.) to break dormancy, causing the grain to sprout by absorbing water. This first of three process steps in malting is called "stepping" by the maltster.

[0005] The steeping process begins with a wet phase in a cylindroconical stainless steel vessel called a steeping tank. The grain is immersed in water at a temperature of 15-20 °C and kept agitated under pressure. Without this agitation during the wet steeping phase, the grain could die due to lack of oxygen. After approximately three to five hours, the water is drained, and the first dry steeping phase begins. This is achieved through aeration by extracting the carbon dioxide produced via a radial fan. The dry phase lasts about ten hours, followed by repeated shorter wet phases and then another dry phase. Once the grain has reached a softness level of approximately 44 percent (depending on the type of grain, this typically takes about 24 hours), the second step in malting begins: germination.

[0006] Germination takes place on a raised bed, onto which the grain is transferred after the soaking process. Depending on the type of grain, variety, harvest year, and growing region, it remains here for approximately four to six days. Constant cooling and aeration with humidified air at around 15-20 °C via a radial fan allows the grain to continue growing. During germination, the structural substance that holds the starch cells together is broken down, thus loosening the grain. Enzymes that convert starch into sugar are also produced during germination. Once the grain is sufficiently loosened, the growth process must be stopped by drying in the third and final step, kilning.

[0007] The kilning process is initiated by increasing the airflow and raising the temperature to approximately 50-65 °C for about 14 hours. After this, the grain is dried and is then subjected to even higher temperatures of approximately 80-85 °C to develop its color and aroma. After about six hours, the kilning process is stopped by cooling with fresh air, thus completing the malting process. These fundamental processes of malting are described, for example, in the publications by Narziss, L.: Malz. In: Heiss, R. (Hrsg.): Lebensmitteltechnologie: Biotechnologische, chemische, mechanische und thermal Verfahrens der Lebensmittelverarbeitung, Springer Berlin Heidelberg, 2013, and by Narziss, L.: Vom Rohstoff bis zur kalten Würze - Entwicklungen der letzten 25 Jahre, Mitteilungsblatt Deutscher Braumeister- und Malzmeister-Bund, Ausgabe 2, Mai 2018.

[0008] WO2013 / 044984A1 describes an apparatus and a method for steeping, germinating, fermenting, and / or combinations thereof of grain, wherein the apparatus comprises a container with at least one plate attachable to the container, having at least one opening for the supply and / or discharge of fluid. EP2336458A1 discloses a circular container, in particular a germination box or a kiln in a malt house, and a method for its manufacture. Malt houses are also known from documents DE1206835B, US2500775A, CN208562299U, and DE2656365A1. Document DE1274548B discloses a continuously operating malt house.

[0009] Small-scale malting plants differ from industrial malting plants due to their lower annual capacity. A capacity threshold for classifying small-scale malting plants lies in the range of approximately 1-50 t / batch.

[0010] Small-scale malting plants for experimental and teaching purposes have capacities of < 1 t / batch.

[0011] There are three malting systems: single-chamber system; two-chamber system; three-chamber system.

[0012] A single-chamber system means that the three process steps of steeping, germination, and kilning are carried out in a single unit. With Central European barley, this takes a total of 7 days (1 day steeping, 5 days germination, and 1 day kilning). With 365 process days per year, a maximum of 52 batches can be produced (365 days / 7 days / batch). The grain remains in the same unit throughout the malting process. Because all three process steps (steeping, germination, kilning) are carried out in one unit, only one batch production is possible. Single-chamber systems can be rectangular boxes or cylindrical tanks. Both have a tray floor through which the grain is supplied with process air during malting.

[0013] In the two-chamber system, steeping and germination / kiln are carried out in separate chambers. This means the peripheral equipment for the steeping process is independent of the germination and kilning processes, which are performed in a separate, shared unit. However, the steeped grain must be transferred from the steeping unit to the germination / kiln unit. With 365 processing days per year, approximately 61 batches can be produced (365 days / 6 days / batch). This is possible because, during the changeover from germination to kilning, the grain can be simultaneously re-steeped in the steeping unit, thus avoiding the loss of an additional day for steeping. Kilning and steeping can be performed concurrently.

[0014] In two-chamber systems, soaking takes place in a cylindroconical tank, followed by transfer to the combined germination and drying unit. This germination and drying unit can consist of a drum that rotates to turn the product during germination, or a rectangular box equipped with a turning machine. A round box with a turning machine is also possible.

[0015] In the three-chamber system, soaking, germination, and drying are separate and also independent of each other from the periphery. With 365 process days per year, approximately 73 batches can be produced (365 days / 5 days / batch). This is because, after the germination unit is unloaded onto the drying unit, the latter can immediately be refilled with softened material from the soaking unit. Soaking, germination, and drying can therefore occur simultaneously.

[0016] The three-chamber system consists of a cylindroconical diverter and either square germination boxes and a square drying kiln, or square germination boxes and a round drying kiln, or round germination boxes and a round drying kiln.

[0017] Especially in small malt houses, for example for the production of specialty malts for the craft beer industry, the investment costs for setting up a plant may be too high or the dimensions may be wrong due to increasing demand.

[0018] The ability to expand the malting plant with one or more additional components without requiring significant investments in peripheral equipment represents economic and environmental benefits. The malting plant should be designed for a 24-hour batch cycle.

[0019] The non-inventive disclosure provides a modularly designed (intentionally expandable) and compact malting plant whose product batch, i.e., the production quantity per batch, can be adjusted incrementally and individually, in particular by increasing or decreasing it. This is achieved by the following features. The invention is defined by the independent claims; the dependent claims describe embodiments of the invention.

[0020] The present invention relates to a grain diverter, comprising a base section and a lid, wherein the capacity of the diverter can be changed incrementally by inserting or removing at least one intermediate ring in an intermediate section between the base section and the lid. Further embodiments preferably include the following features.

[0021] A product outlet can be arranged in the base section. The base section can be conical in the direction of the product outlet and / or the intermediate section and the at least one intermediate ring can be ring-shaped.

[0022] The intermediate section and the at least one intermediate ring can have an inner wall that is essentially circular in cross-section.

[0023] The intermediate section and the at least one intermediate ring can have an outer wall that is essentially hexagonal in cross-section.

[0024] The switch may further include a flow control device, which is preferably operated fully automatically. The flow control device preferably includes a safety overflow.

[0025] The height or length of the flushing device can be adjusted depending on the number of intermediate rings used.

[0026] The lid may have a product inlet. The lid may have a fresh air supply system. The fresh air supply system may include a cooling coil configured to temper the incoming air.

[0027] The invention further comprises a method for extending a switch by gradually changing the capacity of the switch by inserting or removing at least one intermediate ring in the intermediate section between the base section and the cover.

[0028] An example of the disclosure further comprises a malting plant for germinating and kilning grain, comprising a heating unit in which a heating device, heat recovery system, and a central kilning fan can be installed, and at least one germination / kiln unit, comprising a start module (base module) with an integrated air duct in conjunction with a germination fan, at least one intermediate module, and an end module (termination module). A steeping unit can be connected upstream. The intermediate module(s) between the start and end modules form a process or treatment chamber for germinating and kilning grain. The capacity of the malting plant can be adjusted by changing the size of the process chamber. In particular, at least one further intermediate module can be inserted between the start module and the end module.The start module, at least two intermediate modules, and the end module are interconnected (intentionally designed to be removable), with the intermediate modules forming the process chamber. By inserting at least one additional intermediate module, the capacity of the malting plant can be adjusted and, in particular, expanded.

[0029] The start module is connected to the heating unit (which is intentionally removable). The germination fan, located in or in conjunction with the start module, selectively directs fresh air from outside into the process chamber and / or returns stale air from the process chamber back into it during the germination process. The air can be passed through a chiller to cool the process air.

[0030] During the drying process, tempered air is drawn from the heating unit, via a fresh air duct, to the germination drying unit(s), and returned to the heating unit via a return air duct, typically by a central drying fan. Ventilation is usually provided by two separate fans: the germination fan, which is typically located in the start module, and the drying fan in the heating unit. However, the airflow can also be generated by a single fan. Furthermore, the process chamber is formed by the intermediate modules. According to one embodiment of the invention, the start module and / or end module can also constitute part of the process chamber or treatment chamber.

[0031] Other examples preferably include the following features.

[0032] At least two intermediate modules can be inserted between the start module and the end module. These at least two intermediate modules, which can be connected to the start module and the end module, then form the process chamber in which the product to be malted is located (during germination and kilning).

[0033] An integrated air duct within the start module, containing a germination fan, introduces fresh and / or return air into the process chamber below the intermediate module tray during the germination process. A cooling coil, supplied by a refrigeration unit (located outside the germination drying unit), can be installed on the pressure side of the germination fan.

[0034] During the drying process, the central drying fan directs tempered air from the gas burner and / or heating coil (hot water or gas) from the heating unit into the process chamber below the drying tray in the intermediate modules. The heating unit may also integrate at least one cross-flow heat exchanger in addition to the heating element.

[0035] At least one start module can be connected to the heating unit via connection channels.

[0036] The capacity of a malting plant with a heating unit for germinated and kilned grain can be adjusted from 16 t / batch per day to 56 t / batch per day by varying the number of process modules. The capacity (t / day) of germinated and kilned grain per germination / kiln box can range from 16 t to 56 t, preferably 16 t, 24 t, 32 t, 40 t, 48 t, and / or 56 t. The malting system can comprise up to 7 germination / kiln units per heating unit.

[0037] Each germination drying unit preferably includes a turning device and / or an unloading station. The unloading station is preferably located in the start module.

[0038] The process space containing the product to be malted is formed by the intermediate module(s) and preferably comprises at least two intermediate modules. Optionally, the start and / or end module can also be part of the process space. The process space is preferably rectangular and can be used to increase batch sizes incrementally by inserting further intermediate modules.

[0039] The intermediate modules have a width and a length, with the width of the modules preferably corresponding essentially to the width of the start and end modules, and the length of the process space depending on the number of intermediate modules.

[0040] The grain, which is processed in a process chamber, is preferably arranged on an air-permeable tray floor that divides the process chamber into a lower and an upper section. The fan is preferably configured to introduce air through the lower section, allow the air to flow through the grain, and return it to the fan through the upper section. This can be selectively implemented during the germination process via the starter module and during the drying process via the air ducts to the heating unit.

[0041] The malting plant preferably includes a diverter for steeping the grain. The diverter can be connected to at least one germination / kiln unit for transporting the steeped grain into the process chamber, preferably the at least one intermediate module, or alternatively the base module and / or the final module. The diverter is preferably designed to be scalable in stages.

[0042] The heating unit preferably has a central drying fan for circulating the air tempered in the heating device.

[0043] The disclosure further includes a method for malting grain, in particular with a malting plant as described above. The method may, in particular, include steeping, which can increase the product batch (production quantity per batch) stepwise by inserting intermediate rings, germination of the grain in the at least two intermediate modules, and / or kilning of the grain by heating the air using the heating device, which is integrated into the heating device and connected to each of the at least one germination / kiln unit.

[0044] The process can be carried out using at least one softening unit, one germination / drying unit, and one heating unit. If only one germination / drying unit is used, only either the germination process or the drying process can take place. With multiple germination / drying units, up to seven, the drying process can take place in one unit while the germination process is carried out in the other(s).

[0045] The disclosure also includes a method for expanding a malting plant as described above. The method comprises expanding a softening unit 7 by stepwise inserting intermediate rings 76 onto the existing cylinder, and / or expanding an existing germination drying unit 5 by lengthening the process chamber 6, in particular by adding one or more intermediate modules 52 and / or by providing an additional germination drying unit and connecting this additional germination drying unit to the heating unit.

[0046] They show Fig. 1 a schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention, Fig. 2 a schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention in germination operation, Fig. 3 a schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention in drying operation, Fig. 4 and 5 Schematic top views of malting plants according to exemplary embodiments of the invention, Fig. 6 shows a schematic view of a malting plant according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 7 schematically shows the heating unit of the malting plant according to the preferred embodiment of the invention, Fig. 8 schematically a top view of a malting plant according to the preferred embodiment of the invention, Fig. 9 a schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention with an attached soft unit, Fig. 10 a schematic view of an expandable soft unit, and Fig. 11 schematically the expansion of the capacity of a germ drying unit.

[0047] To initiate the malting process, water is added to the grain to break dormancy, causing the grain to sprout through water absorption. To ensure sufficient water absorption, a known steeping process can be used. In this process, the grain is soaked in water to increase its moisture content. Grain steeping and the corresponding equipment are known from the prior art. Alternatively or additionally, a washing screw can be used. Water absorption can also take place in the treatment room described later. Preferably, for the present invention, the grain is wet-steeped and pumped with liquid. The steeping process can be located in a separate building and connected to the malting plant via pipelines.

[0048] An exemplary malting plant according to the present disclosure is described in Fig. 1The diagram shows a heating building 1 in which a heating unit 11 is installed, as well as a process module 5. Both heating building 1 and process module 5 can be provided in multiple versions.

[0049] Process module 5 can be adapted to the requirements of the respective plant and accordingly comprises an air building 2 with a fan 21 and a germination drying box. The germination drying box is a standardized Saladin box (see, for example, Bergner, KG et al.: Alcoholic Beverages, Springer Berlin Heidelberg, 2013 (Handbook of Food Chemistry)). A Saladin box is a stationary tray on which the product rests and through which air flows.

[0050] The germination drying box is formed by a base module 51 and an end module 53 and can optionally be supplemented by one or more intermediate modules 52, which are inserted between the base module 51 and the end module 53. The base module 51, the end module 53, and optionally the intermediate module 52(s) are interconnected and provide a treatment chamber 6 inside, in which the germination and drying of the grain can be carried out. The base module 51 is also connected to the air building 2.

[0051] Preferably, each base module 51, intermediate module 52, and end module 53, hereinafter also referred to as "modules," has the same dimensions. The modules are preferably rectangular. Furthermore, they can be made of stainless steel, sheet metal bending components, or steel beams. Each end module 53 is closed on three sides during operation and can be connected to other modules via the open side. Preferably, an unloading station or flap 55 is arranged on the side opposite the open side. The base module 51 is connected to the air structure 2 on one side and is open on the opposite side, thus allowing it to be connected to other modules. The open side of the base module 51 can be connected either directly to the end module 53 or to intermediate modules 52 positioned between them. Each of the intermediate modules 52 is therefore open on two sides so that it can be arranged between the base module 51 and the end module 53.

[0052] Preferably, the modules have a height of approximately 4.8 m, a width of approximately 4.2 m, and a length of approximately 4.5 m. A maximum of five intermediate modules, each 4.5 m long, can be used, resulting in a total length (base module, five intermediate modules, and end module) of 7 x 4.5 m = 31.5 m. In particular, each module preferably has a capacity of 5 to 10 t, and most preferably 8 t. Specific densities of grain are 45–54 kg / hl for oats, 57–70 kg / hl for barley, 58–77 kg / hl for rye, and 62–87 kg / hl for wheat. Other module dimensions may also be suitable.

[0053] In building 2, a heat exchanger 22 and / or a refrigeration system (not shown) or a cooling coil can be installed. For example, ICS COOL ENERGY can be used as refrigeration technology for the germ air. iC530 / iC660 be used (https: / / www.icscoolenergy.com / app / uploads / Broschuere I-Chiller_ICSCoolEnergy_2018.pdfFurthermore, the malting plant or process module 5 includes an air duct 3 that connects the fan 21 or the air chamber 2 to the germination drying box. The refrigeration system is typically located outside the process module 5, and the refrigeration coil is arranged, for example, in the fan room or in or connected to the air duct 3. The air duct 3 is preferably located outside the process module 5. It is particularly preferred that the air duct 3 is located outside and to the side of the process module 5.

[0054] The heating system 11 in boiler room 1 can be, for example, a burner, a hot water coil, or a boiler. Other heat sources, such as geothermal energy, heat pumps, or solar thermal systems, can also be used. An additional heat exchanger 22 can, for example, utilize waste heat from neighboring industries to increase efficiency. This heat exchanger can be located in boiler room 1 or in connecting ducts. When using a heat exchanger 22, the exhaust air from the wilting process during drying is primarily used to preheat the fresh air in a cross-flow process. The heat exchanger 22 is preferably located off-site from the heating system 11, i.e., not in boiler room 1.

[0055] In the germination kiln, which is constructed from modules 51, 53, and, if present, additional module(s) 52, the malt is germinated and subsequently dried or kilned. Typically, an air-permeable tray 62 is installed, dividing the treatment chamber 6 into an upper and a lower section. The product 61 is preferably located in the upper section, and air is introduced into the lower section and can penetrate the product 61 through the tray 62. The air temperature can be adjusted as required. Preferably, the air duct 3 connects the air building 2 to the base module 51. The upper section of the treatment chamber 6 of the base module 51 is connected via the air duct 3 to the fan 21 in the air building 2, which transports the air to the lower section of the treatment chamber 6.In other words, the exhaust air, which has already passed through the product 61, is extracted from the upper area of ​​the treatment chamber 6 and recirculated to the lower area of ​​the treatment chamber 6 via the fan 21. Depending on the operating mode, the exhaust air can be routed to the fan 21 via the air duct 3 or the heat exchanger 22 and the heating unit 11. Devices, in particular dampers, can be used for this purpose. These dampers prevent the air from entering the base module 51 from the direction of the heat exchanger 22 or the heating building 1 during germination and, conversely, prevent air from entering the air duct 3 or from the air duct 3 into the fan chamber during drying.

[0056] The air can be circulated unchanged by the fan or tempered by the refrigeration unit 23 or the heating unit 11 in the boiler room 1. A heat exchanger 22 can also be arranged in the air building 2 to increase efficiency. This can be designed as a cross-flow heat exchanger. Thus, both germination and drying can be carried out with the same fan 21. Preferably, means are provided in the air building 2, particularly on the fan 21 (not shown), to selectively convey the air from the air duct 3 (recirculation or cooling operation), or from the boiler room 1 or the heating unit 11 (heating operation), or from the environment (outside air) into the treatment room 6. These means can be designed as louvers or dampers. Other devices may also be suitable. The air duct 3 can also have a return air damper, a fresh air damper, a pressure relief louver, or similar device.to ensure a correct air composition. According to the exemplary embodiment, depending on the ambient conditions, exhaust air from treatment room 6 can be recirculated or mixed with fresh air. Furthermore, the air can be conditioned to ensure consistent conditions. For example, in cold regions, it may not be necessary to additionally cool the outside air during germination. Conversely, in cold regions during winter, the cooling coil can also be operated with warm / hot water to preheat the fresh / outside air to the desired temperature of 15–20°C. Preferably, a temperature and / or humidity sensor is installed in the system to monitor the air parameters. This sensor can be installed in the air duct 3 and / or in the air building 2 and / or in the heating building 1 and / or in treatment room 6 above and / or below the tray.Furthermore, it may be advantageous to monitor the conditions in treatment room 6 with an additional sensor. Sensors may also be provided that are in direct contact with product 61.

[0057] An exemplary air volume flow rate during germination is preferably 600 m³ / h per ton of grain. The air volume flow rate increases almost linearly depending on the amount of grain. During kilning, the air volume flow rate is preferably increased to approximately 3500 m³ / h per ton of grain. Here, too, the required volume flow rate can be calculated almost linearly based on the product quantity. The temperatures during germination and kilning can vary considerably depending on the desired product. The temperature is particularly 15–20 °C during germination and 80–120 °C during kilning.

[0058] To ensure uniform germination and drying, the grain or malt is turned by means of a turning device 54. This device can, for example, be designed as a screw-shaped turning device 54 and be guided through the entire treatment chamber 6, in particular its entire length, by means of guide rails attached to the side walls of the modules. A suitable turning device is described in patent application EP 19 16 4503.5, filed on March 22, 2019, by Bühler GmbH. The grain can also be moistened during the germination process. Furthermore, an unloading station, for example in the form of a flap 55, can be arranged in the final module 53, which allows the finished product 61 to be removed and further processed.

[0059] If the size of the malting plant needs to be changed, for example due to increased demand, one or more intermediate modules 52 can be added or removed, provided that the heating capacity of the heating device 11 allows this, i.e., can provide sufficient heat for the treatment room size.

[0060] Furthermore, additional process modules 5 can be connected to a heating building 1, enabling the simultaneous processing of multiple batches. It is only necessary to ensure that the size of the additional process modules 5 does not exceed the heating capacity of the heating unit 11.

[0061] The process modules 5 thus preferably comprise, as a basic configuration, an air building 2 with a fan 21, a base module 51, and a termination module 53. Depending on the requirements, the process modules 5 may further include one or more intermediate modules 52 and / or a heat exchanger 22.

[0062] If a heating building 1 is provided, a process module 5 is connected to the heating building 1, while any further process modules 5 are connected to the heating building via one or more connection channels 4 and return channels 41. In this example, a heat exchanger 22 is only located in the air building 2 connected to the heating building 1.

[0063] If two heating buildings 1 are provided, two process modules 5 are each connected to one of the heating buildings 1 and each has a heat exchanger. If further process modules 5 are provided in the system, these are connected to the heating buildings 1 via one or more connecting channels 4 and return channels 41. Preferably, the heating buildings 1 are also interconnected by a connecting channel 4.

[0064] The plant can therefore be built with any number of heating buildings 1 and process modules 5 and can be expanded or reduced in size as required.

[0065] Fig. 2 This illustrates the operation of an exemplary embodiment in germination mode. Identical or similar elements are referred to by the same reference numerals as in Fig. 1The grain is steeped in a steeping unit, which can also be part of the malting plant, thus preparing it for subsequent processing. The grain prepared in the steeping unit is then conveyed to the malting plant. For example, the grain, along with the steeping water, can be conveyed through pipelines connected to the malting plant into a base module 51 and / or a final module 53 and / or, if present, into one or more intermediate modules 52, i.e., into the treatment room 6 for germination and kilning. Several modules 51, 52, 53 (treatment rooms 6) can be filled sequentially. In the subsequent germination process, as described above, air is drawn into the area of ​​the treatment room 6 located below the tray floor 62 by the fan 21. The air can penetrate the product 61 from below through the tray floor 62.After passing through the product, the exhaust air is routed through air duct 3 to fan 21, where it is recirculated and / or tempered and / or mixed with fresh air. Depending on the outside air conditions, tempering can involve cooling using refrigeration unit 23, heating the germination air by converting the refrigeration unit's cooling coil into a hot water coil, or heating using heating unit 11. Alternatively, the exhaust air can be discharged, and only fresh air can be introduced into treatment room 6.

[0066] Fig. 3 This illustrates the air circulation of an exemplary embodiment during drying operation. Identical or similar elements are referred to by the same reference numerals as in the Figs. 1 and 2The system is equipped with a heating element 11. For this purpose, heated air is directed by the fan 21 into the area of ​​the treatment chamber 6 located below the tray floor 62 and can penetrate the product 61 through the tray floor 62. The exhaust air is then fed to the heat exchanger 22. There, for example, heat recovery or heat retention can be carried out by supplying fresh air. The air is then heated in the heating element 11 and directed back into the treatment chamber 6 by the fan 21. Preferably, the air duct 3 is closed and / or not used during drying operation.

[0067] After completion of the drying process, the product 61 can be removed manually or automatically from the treatment chamber 6 via the flap 55.

[0068] The following describes an example in which the capacity of the malting plant is fully utilized. In this example, it is assumed that batches of 24 t are produced with a germination period of 5 days plus one day for kilning. The germination period may vary depending on the desired product 61 and region. Furthermore, it is assumed that each module has a capacity of 8 t. In order to continuously produce the exemplary desired batches of 24 t at full capacity, the exemplary malting plant must have six process modules 5, each consisting of an air building 2, a base module 51, an intermediate module 52, and a final module 53. The plant must also have a heating building 1 with a heating system 11 adequately sized for 24 t of product. Alternatively, two heating buildings 1 can be used, which together provide sufficient heating capacity for 24 t of product.Each of the six air buildings 2 must also be connected to the central heating building 1 or the two heating buildings 1. During production, one of the process modules 5 is in drying mode on a rotating basis and draws heat from heating building 1, while the remaining five process modules 5 are in germination mode, each one day apart, and thus operate in recirculated air or refrigeration mode. The process module 5 in which grain was dried is filled with new grain for germination after it has been emptied, and the process module 5 in which the grain has germinated for 5 days is switched to drying mode. In this way, continuous and space-optimized production is possible.

[0069] Figure 4Figure 1 shows a schematic top view of a malting plant according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Identical or similar elements are designated with the same reference numerals as in the preceding figures. For the functional features, reference is made to the description above. According to this embodiment, the malting plant comprises a heating building 1 connected to an air building 2. A base module 51, a termination module 53, and four intermediate modules 52 are connected to this first air building 2, together forming the treatment chamber 6. The air building 2 is connected to the base module 51 via an air duct 3.

[0070] The malting plant also includes a second air building 2, each with a base module 51, an intermediate module 52, and a final module 53. Air building 2 and base module 51 are also connected by an air duct 3. Since the second air building 2 does not have its own heating unit 11, hot air can be transported from heating building 1 to the second air building 2 via a connecting duct 4. Heat can be recovered via a return duct 41 between the first and second air buildings 2. Thus, one heating unit 1 can supply heat to two treatment rooms 6. As described above, the malting plant shown is modular and intentionally expandable.

[0071] The system can also be connected to or include a roasting system 8. For this purpose, one or more transport devices 81 can be provided, which transport the finished product, in particular green malt (i.e., germinated product that has not yet been kilned) for the production of caramel malts or kilned malt (fully kilned product, i.e., after kilning) for the production of roasted malts, to the roasting system 8 for further processing. The transport devices 81 can be provided on the end modules 53, as shown; according to an embodiment to be described later, the transport devices 81 are provided on the base or start modules 51. Thus, the product can be removed from the treatment or process room via the unloading station 55 and transported further to the roasting system 8.

[0072] Figure 5This is an exemplary embodiment to illustrate the expansion possibilities of the present invention. Identical or similar elements are provided with the same reference numerals as in the previous figures. As described above, the system can be expanded or reduced in size modularly. In this example, each module can hold up to 8 tons of product. The in Figure 5 The malting plant shown comprises two heating buildings 1 and five process modules 5. Each of the process modules 5 has an air building 2 with a fan 21, whereby only the air buildings 2 directly connected to the heating buildings 1 additionally have heat exchangers 22. The remaining three air buildings 2 are connected to the heating buildings 1 via the connecting duct 4 and can introduce heat into the treatment room 6 via their respective fans 21. Heat recovery can be achieved via the return duct 41, which in turn connects all air buildings 2 to each other.

[0073] Each of the air buildings 2 is connected to the associated base module 51 via an air duct 3. The process module 5 on the left has only the minimum configuration, consisting of one air building 2, base module 51, and end module 53, and thus a capacity of 16 t of product. The air building 2 does not have a heat exchanger 22. The adjacent process module 5 has an intermediate module 52 in addition to the minimum configuration, resulting in a batch size of 24 t. Both process modules 5 equipped with a heating building 1 have a capacity of 48 t each (four intermediate modules 52). The last process module 5 on the right has a capacity of 24 t.

[0074] Since, in the present example, the heating units 11 are each configured for a maximum capacity of 32 t, using only one heating unit 11 will not provide sufficient heat to both large process modules 5. Therefore, according to the present invention, the heating units 1 can be interconnected via the connecting channel 4, and, depending on which process module 5 is operated in drying mode, sufficient heat can be provided by operating only one or both heating units 11.

[0075] The examples described illustrate the versatility of the present invention. Furthermore, as described above, the [examples would be inserted here]. Fig. 4 and 5The configurations shown can be expanded or reduced depending on the heating capacity. This allows the heating system to be shared, saving on maintenance and acquisition costs. The fan provided in each process module can be used for both heating and cooling. Providing an air duct for each process module ensures the independence of the individual modules. The heat exchanger provided for each heating unit (burner) can increase the system's efficiency. Depending on the climate and ambient temperature, i.e., the system's location, outside air can be used, mixed with the circulating air, or tempered.

[0076] Heating building 1(s) can also be provided separately from air building 2. In this case, air building 2(s) would be connected to heating building 1(s) via connecting ducts 4. Furthermore, heat exchanger 22 can also be provided independently of air building 2 and / or heating building 1. If heating building 1 is independent of air building 2, i.e., not connected but installed separately, a central heating coil (hot water or steam) and / or a central gas burner for all process modules can be provided.

[0077] It can also be advantageous to have only one central fan in boiler room 1, which distributes the hot air for drying to the air building(s) 2 or treatment rooms 6. If multiple boiler rooms 1 are used, one fan can be installed in each boiler room 1. Additionally, fans can then be provided for each module group to circulate the germination air.

[0078] The present disclosure also includes a corresponding method for malting grain as well as a method for expanding a malting plant.

[0079] In particular, a malting plant as described above is preferably used for the process. The process comprises the germination of the grain in the process module and the kilning of the grain by heating the air using the at least one heating device, which is arranged in the at least one heating building and is connected to each of the at least one process modules.

[0080] If a malting plant comprises at least two process modules, while grain is being kilned in one of the at least two process modules, the germination of grain can be carried out in the other process module or the other of the at least two process modules.

[0081] The method for expanding a malting plant as described above includes expanding an existing process module by lengthening the process module, in particular by adding one or more intermediate modules and / or by providing an additional process module and connecting the additional process module to the heating building.

[0082] The following aspects describe embodiments of the present invention. 1. Malting plant for germinating and kilning grain, comprising at least one heating building (1) in which a heating device (11) can be installed, and at least one process module (5) consisting of an air building (2) with a fan (21), a base module (51), and a termination module (53), wherein the air building (2) and the base module (51) are connected, and wherein the base module (51) and the termination module (53) are connected and form a treatment room (6) for germinating and kilning grain, wherein the air building (2) is connected to the heating building (1), and wherein the fan (21) is configured to selectively direct air from outside the air building (2) into the treatment room (6) during the germination process of the grain and / or to circulate air from the treatment room (6) within the treatment room (6) and to direct temperature-controlled air into the treatment room (6) during the kilning process of the grain via the heating device (11). 2.1. Malting plant according to aspect 1, wherein at least one intermediate module (52) can be inserted between the base module (51) and the end module (53), the base module (51), the end module (53), and the at least one intermediate module (52) being interconnected and forming the treatment chamber (6). 2. Malting plant according to one of aspects 1 or 2, wherein an air duct (3) attached externally to the process module (5) connects the base module (51) and the air building (2) and is configured to direct exhaust air from the treatment chamber (6) to the fan (21) and / or to introduce hot air from the heating device. 3. Malting plant according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein a heat exchanger (22) and / or a refrigeration system (23) for temperature control of the ambient air can be installed in the air building (2). 4.Malting plant according to one of the above aspects, wherein one of the air buildings (2) is directly connected to the at least one heating building (1) and each further air building (2) is connected to another heating building (1) or to the heating building (1) by means of a connecting duct (4) between air building (2) and heating building (1). 6. Malting plant according to one of the foregoing aspects, wherein the capacity of germinated and kilned grain in the malting plant with a heating device (11) is adjustable from 16 t / batch and day to 56 t / batch and day by the number of process modules (5), and / or wherein the capacity (t / day) of germinated and kilned grain per process module (5) comprises 16 t to 56 t, preferably 16 t, 24 t, 32 t, 40 t, 48 t, and / or 56 t, and / or wherein the malting unit comprises up to 7 process modules (5) per heating building (1). 7.8. Malting plant according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein each process module (5) comprises a turning device (54) and / or an unloading station (55), the unloading station (55) preferably being arranged in the final module (53). 9. Malting plant according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the at least one process module (5) is rectangular and modular in design and expandable by means of modules (51, 52, 53). 10. Malting plant according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the modules (51, 52, 53) have a width and a length, the width of the modules (51, 52, 53) being substantially equal to the width of the air building (2) and the length of the process module (5) being dependent on the number of modules (51, 52, 53).Malting plant according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the grain is arranged in the at least one process chamber (6) on an air-permeable tray floor (62) which divides the treatment chamber (6) into a lower section and an upper section, wherein the fan (21) is configured to introduce air through the lower section, allow the air to flow through the grain, and allow it to return to the fan (21) through the upper section. 11. Malting plant according to one of the preceding aspects, further comprising a diverter (7) for diverting the grain, wherein the diverter (7) is connected to the at least one process module (5) for transporting the diverted grain into the base module (51) and / or an intermediate module (52) and / or the final module (53), wherein the diverter (7) is preferably designed to be modularly enlargeable. 12.13. Malting plant according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the at least one heating building (1) has a fan for circulating the air tempered in the heating device (11). 14. Method for malting grain, in particular with a malting plant according to one of the preceding aspects, comprising the steps of: germinating the grain in the process module (5), and kilning the grain by heating the air by means of the at least one heating device (11) which is arranged in the at least one heating building (1) and is connected to each of the at least one process modules (5). 15. Method according to aspect 13, using at least two process modules (5), wherein, during the kilning of grain in one of the at least two process modules (5), the germination of grain is carried out in the other process module (5) or the other of the at least two process modules (5). 16.Method for extending a malting plant according to one of aspects 1 to 12, by extending an existing process module (5) by lengthening the process module (5), in particular by adding one or more intermediate modules (52) and / or by providing an additional process module (5) and connecting the additional process module (5) to the boiler house (1).

[0083] The following will now refer to the Figures 6 to 8 Further preferred embodiments of the present invention are described.

[0084] A malting plant according to the preferred embodiment is located in Fig. 6 The diagram shows a softening unit 7, a germination drying unit 5, and a heating unit 1 in which a heating device 11 is installed. Both the number of germination drying units 5 and, individually, the number of intermediate modules 52 in the germination drying units 5 can be provided in multiple versions.

[0085] Both the softening unit 7 and the germination drying unit 5 can be adapted to the requirements of the respective system and accordingly comprise a start module 51 with a germination fan 21, an end module 53, and, in between, the process chamber 6 with at least two intermediate modules 52. The process chamber 6 is a standardized Saladin box (see, for example, Bergner, KG et al.: Alcoholic Beverages, Springer Berlin Heidelberg, 2013 (Handbook of Food Chemistry)). A Saladin box is a stationary tray on which the product rests and through which air flows.

[0086] The germination drying unit 5 is formed by a start module 51, at least two intermediate modules 52, and an end module 53. It can be extended, if necessary, by inserting further intermediate modules 52 or by repositioning the end module 53. When extending the germination drying unit 5, the end module 53 is detached from the existing intermediate module 52 to which it is connected. This involves loosening the screws of the interconnected U-profiles and repositioning the end module. During this process, an inspection shaft for wastewater located beneath the germination drying unit 5 can also be repositioned, and the duct pipe extended by the length of the intermediate module. Similarly, a pump line from the existing intermediate module to the product feed into the new intermediate module is extended. The energy chain for the turning device 54 is also extended by the length of the intermediate module. The start module 51, at least two intermediate modules 52, and the end module 53 are interconnected.The intermediate modules 52 provide an internal process chamber 6 in which the germination and drying of the grain can take place. The start module 51 is also connected to the heating unit 1.

[0087] Preferably, each start module 51, intermediate module 52, and end module 53, hereinafter also referred to as "modules," has the same dimensions. The modules are preferably rectangular. Furthermore, they can be made of stainless steel, sheet metal bending parts, or steel beams. Each end module 53 is closed on three sides during operation and can be connected to other modules via the open side. Preferably, a movable process chamber end wall 91 is attached to the open side of the start module, which can be moved back toward the start module 51 to open an integrated discharge device 55 below it. The start module 51 is connected to the heating unit 1 on one side and also at the ceiling via air ducts 4, 41, and is open on the opposite side and thus connectable to intermediate modules 52. The open side of the start module 51 is connected to the end module 53 via at least two intermediate modules 52.Each of the intermediate modules 52 is therefore open on two sides so that it can be arranged between the start module 51 and the end module 53.

[0088] Preferably, the modules have a height of approximately 5 m, a width of approximately 4.2 m, and a length of approximately 4.5 m. A maximum of seven intermediate modules, each 4.5 m long, can be used, resulting in a total length (starting module, seven intermediate modules, and end module) of 7 x 4.5 m = 31.5 m. In particular, each module preferably has a capacity of 4 to 10 t, and most preferably 8 t. Specific densities of grain are 45–54 kg / hl for oats, 57–70 kg / hl for barley, 58–77 kg / hl for rye, and 62–87 kg / hl for wheat. Other module dimensions may also be suitable.

[0089] Heating unit 1 can accommodate at least one heat exchanger 22 and one gas burner and / or heat register for steam or hot water. A refrigeration unit (not shown) or a refrigeration register is installed in the start module within the integrated air duct. For example, ICS COOL ENERGY can be used as refrigeration technology for the germination air. iC530 / iC660 be used ( https: / / www.icscoolenergy.com / app / uploads / Broschuere_I-Chiller_ICSCoolEnergy_2018.pdf Furthermore, the malting plant or start module 51 includes an integrated air duct 3, in which a germination fan 21 is housed and which is connected to the process chamber 5. Typically, the refrigeration system is located outside the process module 5, and the refrigeration coil is, for example, located in the air duct 3 on an outlet side (pressure side) of the germination fan 21. The air duct 3 is preferably integrated within the start module. Particularly preferably, the air duct 3 is located next to a control cabinet compartment in the start module.

[0090] The heating device 11 in the heating unit 1 can be, for example, a burner, a hot water coil, or a boiler. Other heat sources, such as geothermal energy, heat pumps, or solar thermal systems, can also be used. An additional plate heat exchanger can, for example, utilize waste heat from neighboring industries to increase efficiency. This can be housed in the heating unit 1 or in connecting ducts. When at least one cross-flow heat exchanger 22 is used, the exhaust air from the withering process during drying is primarily used to preheat the fresh air in a cross-flow process.

[0091] In process chamber 6, formed by at least two intermediate modules 52, the malt is germinated and subsequently dried or kilned. Typically, an air-permeable tray 62 is installed, dividing the treatment chamber 6 into an upper and a lower section. The product 61 is preferably located in the upper section, and air is introduced into the lower section and can penetrate the product 61 through the tray 62. The air temperature can be adjusted as required. Preferably, the air duct 3 connects the start module 51 to the intermediate module 52. The upper section of process chamber 6 of the start module 51 is connected via the air duct 3 and the germination fan 21 within the air duct 3, which transports the air to the lower section of process chamber 6.In other words, the exhaust air, which has already passed through the product 61, is routed out of the upper area of ​​the process chamber 6 and recirculated via the germination fan 21 into the lower area of ​​the process chamber 6. Depending on the operating mode (germination or drying), the exhaust air can be routed through the air duct 3 (germination) or via the at least one heat exchanger 22 (or heating element 11 in the heating unit 1) and the heating element 11 to the drying fan 24. For this purpose, devices, in particular shut-off dampers, can be used which, on the one hand, prevent the supply to and discharge from the start module 51 from the direction of the heat exchanger 22 or heating unit 1 during germination, and on the other hand, prevent the entry into the air duct 3 or, conversely, prevent the air from the air duct 3 from entering the process chamber via the start module 51 during drying.

[0092] The air can be circulated unchanged by the drying and germination fans or tempered by the refrigeration unit 23 or the heating unit 1 in the heating unit 1. A heat exchanger 22 can also be arranged in the heating unit to increase efficiency. This can be designed as a cross-flow heat exchanger. Thus, the germination process can take place independently for each germination drying unit 5 via the integrated air duct in the start module. The drying process, in turn, is supplied with tempered air via the heating unit 1. The central drying fan 24, the heating unit 11, and optionally at least one (cross-flow) heat exchanger 22 are also located in the heating unit 1.Preferably, in the start module 51, means are provided (not shown) in both the air duct 3 for germination and in the fresh air duct 4 and return air duct 41 during drying to selectively convey the air from the air duct 3 (recirculating air or cooling operation) or from the heating unit 1 or heating device 11 (heating operation) or from the environment (outside air) into the treatment chamber 6. In particular, these means can be designed as louvers or dampers. These can be integrated, in particular, into the heating unit 1 at the locations where the ducts, especially the return air duct 41, are also arranged. Other devices may also be suitable. The air duct 3 can further have a return air damper, a fresh air damper, a positive pressure louver, or similar device to ensure a correct air composition.According to the exemplary embodiment, depending on the ambient conditions, exhaust air from treatment chamber 6 can be recirculated or mixed with fresh air. Furthermore, the air can be conditioned to ensure consistent conditions. For example, in cold regions, it may not be necessary to additionally cool the outside air during germination. Conversely, in cold regions during winter, the cooling coil can also be operated with warm / hot water to preheat the fresh / outside air to the desired temperature of 15–20°C. Preferably, a temperature and / or humidity sensor is installed in the system to monitor the air parameters. This sensor can be installed in air duct 3 and / or in the fresh air duct 4 and return air duct and / or in the heating unit 1 and / or in process chamber 6 above and / or below the tray.Furthermore, it may be advantageous to monitor the conditions in process chamber 6 with an additional sensor. Sensors that are in direct contact with product 61 may also be provided.

[0093] An exemplary air volume flow rate during germination is preferably 600 m³ / h per ton of grain. The air volume flow rate increases almost linearly depending on the amount of grain. During kilning, the air volume flow rate is preferably increased to approximately 3000 m³ / h per ton of grain. Here, too, the required volume flow rate can be calculated almost linearly based on the product quantity. The temperatures during germination and kilning can vary considerably depending on the desired product. The temperature is particularly 15–20 °C during germination and 80–120 °C during kilning.

[0094] To ensure uniform germination and drying, the grain or malt is turned by means of a turning device 54. This device can, for example, be designed as a screw-shaped turning device 54 and be guided through the entire process chamber 6, in particular its entire length, by guide rails attached to the side walls of the intermediate modules 52. A suitable turning device is described in patent application EP 19 16 4503.5, filed on March 22, 2019, by Bühler GmbH. The grain can also be moistened during the germination process. Furthermore, an unloading station 55, for example in the form of an integrated unloading device below the movable end wall 91 of the process chamber, can be arranged in the starting module 51, allowing the finished product 61 (green malt after germination or kilned malt after kilning) to be removed and further processed.

[0095] If, for example, the batch size of the malting plant is to be changed in stages due to increased demand, one or more intermediate modules 52 can be added or removed, provided that the heating capacity of the heating device 11 allows this, i.e., can provide sufficient heat for the treatment room size.

[0096] Furthermore, additional germination drying units 5 can be connected to a heating unit 1, allowing multiple batches to be processed simultaneously. It is only necessary to ensure that the batch size of the additional germination drying units 5 does not exceed the heating capacity of the heating unit 11.

[0097] The germination drying units 5 thus preferably comprise, as a basic configuration, one start module 51, at least one intermediate module 52, and one end module 53. Depending on the requirements, the germination drying units 5 may further comprise two, three, or more intermediate modules 52.

[0098] If a heating unit 1 is provided, a germination drying unit 5 is connected to the heating unit 1, while any further germination drying units 5 are connected to the heating unit 1 via one or more fresh air ducts 4 and return air ducts 41. In this example, a heat exchanger 22 is arranged only in the start module 51 connected to the heating unit 1.

[0099] A germination drying unit 5 is connected to the heating unit 1 via fresh air ducts 4 and return air ducts 41. If further germination drying units 5 are provided in the system, these are connected to the heating unit 1 via one or more fresh air ducts 4 and return air ducts 41.

[0100] The system can therefore be expanded or reduced in size from one heating unit 1 to seven germination drying units 5 (24h batch cycle).

[0101] In a steeping unit, which can also be part of the malting plant, grain is steeped and thus prepared for subsequent processing. Grain prepared by the steeping unit is conveyed to one or more germination / kiln units 5. For example, the grain, along with the steeping water, can be conveyed through pipelines connected to one or more germination / kiln units 5 into the intermediate module(s) 52, i.e., into the process chamber 6 for germination and kilning. Several intermediate modules 52 (process chambers 6) can be filled sequentially. In the subsequent germination process, air is directed by the germination fan 21 into the area of ​​the process chamber 6 located below the tray floor 62. The air can penetrate the product 61 from below through the tray floor 62. After passing through the product, the exhaust air is directed to the germination fan 21 in the air duct 3 of the start module 51, where it is recirculated and / or tempered and / or mixed with fresh air.Depending on the outside air conditions, temperature control can involve cooling using refrigeration system 23 or heating the germination air (in very cold winters or at low outside temperatures) by converting the refrigeration system's cooling coil into a hot water coil. Furthermore, the exhaust air can be removed and only fresh air introduced into process room 6.

[0102] During drying operation, heat is drawn from heating unit 1 by heating device 11, as in Figure 7As shown, heated air is directed by the drying fan 24 through the fresh air duct 4 into the area of ​​the process chamber 6 located below the tray floor 62 and can penetrate the product 61 through the tray floor 62. The exhaust air is then fed through the return duct 41 to the at least one heat exchanger 22. There, for example, heat recovery or heat retention can be carried out by supplying fresh air. The air is then heated in the heating unit 11 and directed back into the process chamber 6 by the drying fan 24. Preferably, during drying operation, the air duct 3 from the start module is closed and / or not used. The heating unit 1 can also include a control room, i.e., a control cabinet for controlling the heating unit.

[0103] After completion of the drying process, the product 61 can be removed manually or automatically from the process room 6 via the integrated unloading station in the start module 51.

[0104] Figure 8 The diagram schematically shows a top view of a malting plant according to one embodiment of the invention. A heating unit 1, such as that found, for example, in Figure 7 As shown, the heating unit 1 is connected to two germination drying units 5 via a fresh air duct 4. The airflow from the heating unit 1 into the germination drying units 5 is supplied by the drying fan 24 during the drying process. After passing through the process chambers in the germination drying units 5, the air is returned to the heating unit 1 via the return duct 41.

[0105] The following describes an example of the preferred embodiment in which the capacity of the malting plant is fully utilized. In this example, it is again assumed that batches of 24 t are produced with a germination period of 5 days plus one day for kilning. The germination period may vary depending on the desired product 61 and region. Furthermore, it is assumed that each module has a capacity of 8 t. In order to be able to continuously produce the exemplary desired batches of 24 t at full capacity, the exemplary malting plant must have six germination-kiln units 5, each consisting of a start module 51, at least three intermediate modules 52, and a final module 53. The plant must also have a heating unit 1 with a heating device 11 and a central kiln fan 24, which is adequately dimensioned for 24 t of product.Each of the six start modules 51 must also be connected to both the softening unit 7 and the heating unit 1. During production, one of the germination drying units 5 rotates through the drying mode, drawing heat from the heating device 11 in the heating unit 1, while the remaining five germination drying units 5 are each in germination mode one day apart and are therefore operating in either convection or refrigeration mode. The germination drying unit 5 in which grain has been dried is refilled with new grain from the softening unit 7 after emptying, and the germination drying unit 5 in which the grain has germinated for 5 days is then switched to drying mode. This allows for continuous and space-optimized production.

[0106] The ones already described above Figure 4This can also be understood as a schematic top view of a malting plant according to the preferred embodiment of the invention. The reference numerals given are used accordingly in the following description of the preferred embodiment. Regarding the functional features, reference is made to the description above. According to the preferred embodiment, the malting plant has a heating unit 1 which is connected to two start modules 51 of two germination drying units 5. One of the germination drying units 5 has, in addition to a start module 51 and an end module 53, two intermediate modules 52. The second germination drying unit has, in addition to a start module 51 and an end module 53, four intermediate modules 52. Both germination drying units 5 are connected to both the steeping unit 7 and the heating unit 1.

[0107] Heat can be recovered from the germination drying units 5 back to the heating unit 1 via a return air duct 41. Thus, one heating unit 11 in one heating unit 1 can supply heat to two treatment rooms 6. As described above, the malting plant shown is modular and expandable.

[0108] In the one already described above Figure 5 A further exemplary embodiment is shown to illustrate the expansion possibilities of the present invention, which can also be represented in relation to the preferred embodiment as follows. Identical or similar elements are again provided with the same reference numerals as in the previous figures. As described above, the system can be expanded or reduced in size modularly. In this example, each module can again hold up to 8 tons of product. The in Figure 5The malting plant shown comprises a heating unit 1 and five germination drying units. Each germination drying unit has a start module 51, optionally intermediate modules 52, and a final module 53. The germination drying units are connected to the heating unit 1 via the fresh air duct 4 and can introduce heat into the process chamber and into one of the five germination drying units via the central drying fan 24. Heat recovery can be achieved via the return air duct 41, which is connected to all germination drying units.

[0109] Each germination drying unit has an integrated air duct in the start module 51. The germination drying unit on the left has only one start module 51 and one end module 53, and a capacity of 16 t of product. The germination drying unit next to it has an additional intermediate module 52, resulting in a batch size of 24 t. The germination drying units next to it each have a capacity of 48 t (four intermediate modules 52). A germination drying unit with a maximum capacity of 56 t could have seven intermediate modules 52 (not shown). The last germination drying unit 5 on the right has a capacity of 24 t (one intermediate module 52). If, as provided for in the preferred embodiment described above, the process space is formed only by the intermediate modules, the above example must be adapted accordingly.In this case, the minimum configuration includes one intermediate module with a start and end module, the standard configuration has two intermediate modules and can be expanded up to a size of seven intermediate modules.

[0110] Since in the above example the heating devices 11 are each set up for a maximum capacity of 56 t, when using heating device 11, all other (smaller) germination drying units 5 can also be adequately supplied with heat from one heating unit 1. Therefore, according to the present invention, the heating unit 1 can supply all germination drying units 5 with sufficient heat via the fresh air duct 4, regardless of capacity, depending on which of the germination drying units 5 is operated in drying mode, by operating only one or both heating devices 11.

[0111] The examples described illustrate the versatility of the present invention. Furthermore, as described above, the [examples would be inserted here]. Fig. 4 and 5 The configurations shown can be expanded or reduced depending on the heating capacity. The central drying fan can distribute the heated air from the heating unit to the germination drying unit via the connecting ducts. Providing one air duct 3 with a germination fan 21 per germination drying unit 5 ensures the independence of the individual germination drying units. The heat exchanger 22 provided in the heating unit can increase the efficiency of the system. Depending on the climate and ambient temperature, i.e., the location of the system, outside air can be used, mixed with the circulating air, or tempered.

[0112] Figure 9Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a malting plant as described above. This plant additionally includes a diverter or diverter unit 7, which can be part of the malting plant or provided externally. A fresh water reservoir can be located below the diverter unit 7. For information regarding the operation of the diverter 7, please refer to the section above. An exemplary embodiment of a diverter 7 is described with reference to... Figure 10The soaked grain can be pumped wet via a pump line 71 into the treatment or process chamber 6, i.e., one of the modules 51, 52, 53, or – in the preferred embodiment – ​​one of the intermediate modules 52. For dry transport from the soaker to the treatment chambers, conveyor belts, trough chain conveyors, screw conveyors, tubular chain conveyors, or elevators can be used. It can also be advantageous to soak the grain directly in the treatment or process chamber 6. For this purpose, a washing screw can be provided, in particular, before the grain enters the process module or the germination drying unit 5.

[0113] Figure 10 Figure 1 shows a schematic view of an expandable switch or switch unit 7, which can be combined with the described malting plant. A cylindroconical switch 7 is described as an example. Figure 10(a)Figure 1 shows the basic configuration of the softener 7 for the smallest batch size. The cylindroconical softener 7 has a lid 72, which may be equipped with a product inlet 73 for filling the grain and a fresh air supply device 74. The fresh air supply device 74 may also include a cooling coil for tempering the incoming air. A fully automatic rinse device 75 is preferably provided inside the cylindroconical softener 7. This device preferably also includes a safety overflow 751. In particular, the rinse device 75 removes floating barley, dust, and other non-germinating floating particles. After the softening process, the softened grain is discharged gravimetrically through the opening 79 at the bottom of the cone and transported for further processing.

[0114] If the malting plant is enlarged as described above, it may be necessary to adjust the capacity of the diverter 7 accordingly. For this purpose, one or more intermediate rings 76 can be installed to increase the volume and thus the product capacity of the cylindroconical diverter 7. Figure 10(b) shows a configuration of switch 7 from Figure 10(a) with an additional intermediate ring 76. To mount this, the cover 72 with the attached product inlet 73 and fresh air supply 74 is first removed. Subsequently, one or more intermediate rings 76 are placed on the cylindroconical diverter 7. Figure 10(c)Figure 1 shows a representation with two mounted intermediate rings 76. The intermediate rings 76 can be connected to the cylindroconical diverter 7 or to the other intermediate ring 76, for example, by means of a screw connection and a seal. Alternatively, the connections between the diverter cylinder and the intermediate rings or the cover can be welded. Furthermore, the height or length of the discharge device 75 can be adjusted accordingly. This can be done, for example, by replacing the funnel and the pipe sections. Another diverter can also be provided.

[0115] The softening unit 7 can therefore, in particular, have a conical base section 78, a cylindrical lid 72, and an annular intermediate section 77. The capacity of the softening unit 7 can be increased or decreased stepwise by inserting or removing intermediate rings 76 in the intermediate section 77. To ensure sufficient stability of the softening unit 7, the softening unit 7 preferably has a substantially circular inner wall and a hexagonal outer wall in cross-section, particularly in the area of ​​the intermediate rings 76, as shown in the cross-sectional view in Figure 10(d) shown.

[0116] All described systems can be used as described in Figure 4 shown, also combined with roasting plants.

[0117] Instead of a burner, a boiler plant can also be used as the heating unit 11. This can be operated with water or steam. The plant can be operated with gas, oil, wood pellets or wood chips, or other heating systems, to heat the water sufficiently so that this hot water or steam can supply the steam or water coils. In this case, a steam coil is installed on the suction side of the drying fan 24 in the heating unit 1. A heat exchanger, which, for example, operates according to the counterflow principle, can also be provided.

[0118] Furthermore, the heat exchanger 22 or cross-flow heat exchanger can be replaced by a heat pump. Even when operated with a burner, this requires coils on the suction side of the drying fan 24 in the heating unit 1. The water or steam coils are preferably installed on the intake side of the central drying fan 24 in the heating unit 1. The heat pump is preferably used only for the drying mode. This increases efficiency and energy efficiency. As a result, a smaller heating device 11, burner, or boiler system can be used. The heat pump can also be powered by electricity from a photovoltaic system.

[0119] The present disclosure also includes a corresponding method for malting grain as well as a method for expanding a malting plant.

[0120] In particular, a malting plant as described above is preferably used for the process. The process comprises steeping the grain in a steeping unit, germinating the grain individually in a germination drying unit 5 independent of other germination drying units, and drying the grain by heating the air using a heating device 11, which is arranged in heating unit 1 and connected to each of the at least one germination drying unit 5.

[0121] The process can be carried out using at least one softening unit 7, one germination drying unit 5, and one heating unit 1, whereby the softening unit 1 can be operated independently of the germination drying unit 5. Either the germination process or the drying process can be carried out in the combined germination drying unit.

[0122] The method for expanding a malting plant as described above comprises the stepwise expansion of the batch capacity by extending the germination drying unit 5, in particular by adding one or more intermediate modules 52 and / or by providing one or more additional germination drying units 5 and connecting the additional germination drying unit(s) 5 to the heating unit 1.

[0123] The extension method according to the invention is schematically shown in Figure 11 depicted. In a germination drying unit of an existing malting plant, such as those found, for example, in Figure 6 As shown, the modules are first separated. In the illustrated embodiment, the existing intermediate module 52 is separated from the end module 53, while the intermediate module remains connected to the start module 51. The end module 51 is in Figure 11 only hinted at, but corresponds to the end module 53 from Figure 6It therefore also includes, in particular, the corresponding channels, the fan, and the unloading station. Of course, to expand the malting plant, the intermediate module can remain attached to the end module but be separated from the start module. The removed module is taken away from the remaining modules, and another intermediate module 52' is positioned between the removed (end) module and the previously existing intermediate module 52. The walls, ceilings, and floors of the modules are preferably formed by U-profiles. These can then be connected to the newly inserted U-profiles, which have the same dimensions, i.e., the additional intermediate modules 52, and preferably screwed together. By inserting further intermediate modules 52, the process chamber 6 of the malting plant 1 can be expanded in stages.

[0124] EP 2 336 458 B1 describes a method for manufacturing a container for germinating or kilning malt from several wall elements. Although the methods and devices shown therein are described in relation to round containers, they can also be used analogously for germination-kiln units according to the present invention.

[0125] Although the invention is illustrated and described in detail by means of the figures and the accompanying description, this illustration and detailed description are to be understood as illustrative and exemplary and not as limiting the invention. It is understood that those skilled in the art may make modifications and adaptations without departing from the scope of the following claims. In particular, the invention also includes embodiments with any combination of features mentioned or shown above with regard to various aspects and / or embodiments.

[0126] The invention also includes individual features shown in the figures, even if they are shown there in connection with other features and / or are not mentioned above.

[0127] Furthermore, the expression "comprise" and derivatives thereof do not exclude other elements or steps. Likewise, the indefinite article "a" and derivatives thereof do not exclude a plurality. The functions of several features listed in the claims can be fulfilled by a single unit. The terms "essentially," "approximately," "about," and the like, in conjunction with a property or value, define precisely that property or value. All reference numerals in the claims are not to be understood as limiting the scope of the claims. List of reference symbols

[0128] 1 Heating building or heating unit 11 Heating system 2 Air building 21 (Germ) fan 22 Heat exchanger 23 Refrigeration system 24 (Drying) fan 3 Air duct 4 Connecting or fresh air duct 41 Return or recirculation air duct 5 Process module or germ drying unit 51 Base module or 52 Start module 53 Intermediate module 54 End module 54 Turning device 55 Unloading flap or unloading station 6 Treatment or process chamber 61 Product 62 Tray base 7 Softener or softening unit 71 Pump line 72 Cover 73 Product inlet 74 Fresh air supply 75 Rinse-off device 751 Safety overflow 76 Intermediate ring 77 Intermediate section 78 Base section 79 Product outlet 8 Roasting system 81 Transport device 91 Movable process chamber end wall

Claims

1. A steeping unit (7) for steeping of grain, comprising a base section (78) and a lid (72), wherein the capacity of the steeping unit can be adjusted in a stepwise manner by inserting or removing at least one intermediate ring (76) in an intermediate section (77) between the base section (78) and the lid (72).

2. The steeping unit (7) according to claim 1, further comprising a product outlet (79) arranged within the base section (78).

3. The steeping unit (7) according to claim 2, wherein the base section (78) is conical in the direction of the product outlet and / or wherein the intermediate section (77) and the at least one intermediate ring (76) are ring-shaped.

4. The steeping unit (7) according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the intermediate section (77) and the at least one intermediate ring (76) have an inner wall that is essentially circular in cross-section.

5. The steeping unit (7) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate section (77) and the at least one intermediate ring (76) have an outer wall that is essentially hexagonal in cross-section.

6. The steeping unit (7) according to any one of the preceding claims, the steeping unit further comprising a skimming device (75), wherein the skimming device (75) is preferably operated fully automatically, and wherein the skimming device (75) preferably has a safety overflow (751).

7. The steeping unit (7) according to claim 6, wherein a height or length of the skimming device (75) can be adapted depending on the number of intermediate rings (76) used.

8. The steeping unit (7) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lid (72) comprises a product feed (73).

9. The steeping unit (7) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lid (72) comprises a device for fresh air supply (74).

10. The steeping unit (7) according to claim 9, wherein the device for fresh air supply (74) comprises a cooling coil configured to temperature-control fresh air.

11. A method for expanding a steeping unit (7) according to any one of the preceding claims by adjusting the capacity of the steeping unit (7) in a stepwise manner by inserting or removing at least one intermediate ring (76) in the intermediate section (77) between the base section (78) and the lid (72).