What instruments are used to measure fermentation? —— A guide to creating an accurate and efficient brewing process

1. Why do we need to measure fermentation?

Fermentation not only determines the alcohol concentration, but also directly affects the flavor, foam structure and taste of beer. By measuring and analyzing parameters such as the specific gravity, sugar content and temperature of the liquid during the fermentation process, brewers can:

Accurately determine whether fermentation is complete;

Control the fermentation speed to avoid premature or late termination;

Detect potential abnormalities in advance, such as temperature fluctuations or insufficient yeast activity;

Ensure the consistency and quality of each batch of products.

For commercial customers using fermenter for beer (beer fermentation tank) or fermenter for sale (fermentation equipment for sale), measuring the degree of fermentation is particularly important, which is related to the flavor and taste of brewed beer.

2. What are the common fermentation measurement instruments?

Hydrometer

This is the most widely used basic instrument, which determines the conversion rate of sugar by measuring the change in liquid density. Most home fermenter users will use it with a bottle for fermentation. This can accurately detect the quality of fermentation and ensure the smooth progress of the fermentation equipment.

Refractometer

Only a small amount of liquid sample can be used to estimate the sugar content through the principle of refraction. It is an ideal tool for rapid sampling and analysis. It is suitable for users who use systems such as conical fermenters or alcohol fermenters, especially in the early stages of fermentation.

Digital fermentation monitoring system

Many modern brewing systems are integrated with digital sensors that can monitor temperature, specific gravity and pressure in real time and support remote viewing of data. Users of high-end fermenters for beer or grainfather brewing systems will choose this method for comprehensive control. This device not only saves customers' time but also ensures the accuracy of detection. It can well control the operation of fermentation equipment and monitor the fermentation situation at all times.

Thermometer and barometer

Temperature changes affect yeast activity, while pressure affects the operating rate of fermentation equipment. Commercial-grade systems are usually equipped with precise digital thermostats and air pressure regulators to adjust the fermentation environment in real time to ensure the orderly progress of the fermentation process.

3. Recommended auxiliary tools and accessories

Food-grade sampling bottles: used to safely extract liquid samples from fermentation tanks.

CIP Cleaning system interface: ensure hygiene and facilitate switching between batches.

airlock for fermentation: control the exchange of oxygen and CO₂ to avoid oxidation.

best fermentation kit for beginners: contains basic instruments, ideal for beginners.

food fermentation kit: can be used for a variety of fermentation applications such as beer, red wine, kombucha, etc.

4. Recommended matching solutions for different user scenarios

For different stages of use, the recommended combination of measuring tools is as follows:

Home users (beginners): recommended combination hydrometer + food sampling bottle + simple thermometer;

Small and medium-sized brewers: recommended combination hydrometer + refractometer + simple airlock + conical fermenter grainfather system;

Commercial breweries: recommended configuration digital monitoring system + real-time temperature and pressure sensor + PLC control system to fully monitor the integration of multiple fermentation equipment and beer equipment.

5. How to perfectly integrate the measurement system with brewing equipment?

When purchasing fermentation equipment, give priority to the following points:

Compatibility with measuring equipment: the equipment should have standard sampling ports and temperature probe interfaces;

Whether to support automated upgrades: for example, whether airlock for fermentation or electronic sensor system;

Whether food-grade stainless steel (such as SUS304) is used: to ensure hygiene and service life;

Applicable to a variety of fermentation applications: such as beer, red wine, kombucha or experimental beverages;

Whether supporting services are provided: such as system installation, technical support, upgrade services, etc.

Tonsen provides a variety of solutions from home fermenter to alcohol fermenter, conical fermenter for sale, etc., all of which support customized sensor interfaces and measurement components to achieve complete fermentation closed-loop control.

6. Conclusion: The value of fermentation measurement is not just data

An accurate measurement system is the core to ensure fermentation consistency and improve brewing quality. Especially for breweries that focus on brand and scale development, choosing the right instrument is not only to improve efficiency, but also an important way to control costs, optimize taste, and enhance market competitiveness.

Whether you are looking for the best fermentation kit for beginners or are evaluating a complete commercial fermenter for beer system, Tonsen can provide you with technical advice and equipment selection support.