Sizing a Vacuum Relief Valve

Introduction

The best way to protect your tanks from vacuum failure is to have a properly "spec'd" vacuum relief valve installed.  Your fermenters and brite tanks comprise the nucleus of your brewing business, so they must be adequately protected.  

There are many factors to consider when sizing a vacuum relief valve. Paul Mueller Company's Master Brewer-in-Residence, Ashton Lewis, walks you through everything you should consider before purchasing one.

What You Need to Know to Size a Vacuum Relief Valve

• Hottest CIP Temperature
• Coldest Rinse Temperature
• Tank Volume
• Tank Geometry
• Tank Pressure Rating
• Tank Vacuum Rating

Free Drain Condition

Consider the possibility of a vacuum failure, which is known as free draining in the worst-case scenario. This occurs when a valve is accidentally opened or knocked off from a beer-filled tank. A vacuum relief valve needs to be adequately sized to manage the vacuum pressures caused by the sudden release of beer. Without proper vacuum relief, your fermenter or brite tank could collapse.

Protect Your Equipment

Fermenters and bright tanks are costly pieces of equipment but essential for your brewery's success. Ensure the tanks remain operational by having the proper vacuum failure protection in place.