The primary purpose of the lauter tun is to separate the liquid wort from the spent grain solids. This separation process involves lautering, which is essentially draining the liquid wort while leaving the solid grain bed behind. Lauter Tuns are equipped with false bottoms or slotted plates that facilitate this separation, ensuring a clear and sediment-free wort.
To learn more, please read What is a Lauter Tun?
The Mash Tun is where the magic of mashing begins. It's a vessel designed to hold and mix crushed malted grains with hot water, creating a porridge-like mixture known as the mash. The heat activates enzymes in the malt, converting starches into fermentable sugars. The Mash Tun's primary functions include temperature control and maintaining the optimal conditions for enzymatic activity.
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Mash Tun |
Lauter Tun |
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Function |
Responsible for mashing and enzymatic conversion of starches into sugars. |
Focuses on separating the liquid wort from the spent grains after mashing. |
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Design |
Designed to hold and maintain the mash temperature, often equipped with a heating system. |
Features a false bottom or slotted plate to separate wort from the solid grain bed during lautering. |
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Temperature Control |
Maintains a specific temperature range for enzymatic activity. |
Typically operates at a lower temperature, allowing for effective separation without compromising the enzymatic activity achieved in the Mash Tun. |
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Liquid Extraction |
Outputs the entire mash, including the liquid wort and spent grains. |
Separates the liquid wort from the spent grains, leaving the solid material behind. |
When faced with the decision of choosing a mash tun or lauter tun, numerous factors come into play, encompassing the dimensions of the vessel, the materials employed, and the intricacies of design. The capacity of the container is intricately tied to the scale of the brewing batch at hand, prompting a careful consideration of proportions. Simultaneously, the selection of materials hinges on a delicate balance, weighing aspects like cost, durability, and individual preferences in the quest for an ideal brewing companion.
Conclusion
The Mash Tun sets the stage for enzymatic conversion and flavor development, while the Lauter Tun ensures a clean and efficient separation of the liquid wort from the spent grains. Brewers, armed with the knowledge of these distinct functions, can master the art of crafting beers that delight the palate and satisfy the soul.
Contact us or email us at: [email protected] today. We offer a diverse selection of wedge wire false bottoms suitable for lauter tuns or mash tuns.
