Author: Henry Chen Publish Time: 2026-02-05 Origin: Jinan Cassman Machinery Co., Ltd.
In the world of craft beer, no two breweries are exactly alike. One might be squeezed into a historic downtown basement with low ceilings, while another occupies a spacious industrial warehouse. One brewmaster might specialize in decoction mashed Lagers, while another focuses exclusively on hop-heavy IPAs.
So, why should your equipment be "off-the-shelf"?
While standard models exist, the true power of a Direct Fired Brewhouse is unlocked through customization. Tailoring your system ensures that your equipment works for you, not against you. In this guide, we explore how to configure a system that fits your space, your brewing style, and your budget.
Customization isn't just about aesthetics; it's about operational efficiency. Investing in a tailored solution pays dividends every single brew day.
A standard system might have the hot liquor tank (HLT) on the left. But what if your water source and drainage are on the right?
The Custom Fix: We can mirror-image the platform layout to align with your facility’s utilities, saving you thousands in plumbing costs and saving your brewers unnecessary steps.
Direct fired systems require exhaust stacks (flues). In some buildings, routing these stacks is difficult due to beams or HVAC units.
The Custom Fix: We can engineer the firebox and flue exit position to route around obstacles, ensuring you meet code without expensive building renovations.
If you brew traditional German Lagers, a standard single-infusion mash tun won't cut it.
The Custom Fix: We can equip your Direct Fired System with a dedicated mash mixer and variable speed agitators to handle complex step mashes or decoction processes.
When you order from Cassman Factory Direct, you have a menu of options. Here are the most popular customizations for gas-fired systems.
Oversized Vessels: Do you like to brew high-gravity beers (Imperial Stouts)? We can increase the diameter and height of the Mash Tun to handle larger grain bills without overflowing.
3-Vessel vs. 2-Vessel: Choose between a standard Mash/Lauter + Kettle/Whirlpool combo, or separate them for simultaneous brewing (double batching) to increase throughput.
Stainless Steel: The industry standard for hygiene and durability.
Copper Cladding: For brewpubs where the equipment is visible to customers, we can wrap the direct fired kettle in real copper. This provides the traditional "old world" look with the modern efficiency of stainless steel internals.
Burner Brand: We can install specific burner brands (like Riello, Eclipse, or Weishaupt) to match the availability of service technicians in your local area.
Firebox Design: Custom insulation thickness can be added for breweries in extremely cold climates to prevent heat loss.
Manual Controls: Simple, tactile switches and knobs. Great for hands-on brewers.
Touchscreen Automation: A Siemens or Allen-Bradley PLC system that allows you to save recipes, automate temperature ramps, and control pump speeds with a fingertip.
Customization requires communication. This is where the supply chain model matters most.
When you buy from a reseller, you tell the salesperson what you want. They tell their purchasing manager. The manager emails the factory.
Result: "Telephone game" errors. You asked for a 4-inch drain, but the factory installed a 3-inch drain because the message got lost.
When you choose Cassman, you are communicating directly with the source.
Direct Engineering: We provide 3D CAD drawings of your custom layout for approval before we cut a single sheet of metal.
Cost Savings: Custom work usually carries a high markup from resellers. With Factory Direct, you pay for the modification, not the middleman's margin.
Agility: Need to move a valve 6 inches to the left? We can update the drawing and production plan instantly.
Your brewery is a long-term investment. Buying a system that "sort of" fits your needs will lead to years of frustration and inefficiencies.
By leveraging the customization options of a Direct Fired Brewhouse, you can build a facility that is safe, efficient, and uniquely yours. And by working Factory Direct, you ensure that your vision is executed perfectly, down to the last weld.
Do you have a challenging space or a unique brewing process? Contact Cassman Today. Let our engineers create a custom proposal and 3D layout for your review—free of charge.
Know a brewer planning a new build? Share these tips!
