Author: Henry Chen Publish Time: 2026-01-12 Origin: Jinan Cassman Machinery Co., Ltd.
For the modern craft brewery, the choice of heating source is not just a utility decision—it is a critical engineering choice that dictates your Operational Expenditure (OpEx), batch consistency, and facility layout.
While steam has traditionally held the crown for large-scale production, advancements in Electric Heating Technology have shifted the paradigm for breweries in the 3 BBL to 15 BBL range. The modern electric brewhouse is no longer just a "plug-in" alternative; it is a precision instrument capable of thermal accuracy that gas systems struggle to match.
In this technical guide, we analyze the performance metrics of Cassman’s Electric Brewhouse Systems, breaking down the thermodynamics and control logic that drive efficiency.
To understand performance, we must first look at the hardware. An electric system relies on three critical subsystems.
The heart of the system. In a Cassman Electric Brewhouse, we utilize Ultra-Low Watt Density (ULWD) elements.
The Physics: Standard elements release high heat over a small surface area, causing wort scorching (caramelization) and harsh flavors. ULWD elements have a larger surface area, reducing the heat flux per square inch.
The Result: Gentle heating that prevents fouling and preserves the delicate malt profile.
A simple thermostat is insufficient for brewing. We employ PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controllers.
Function: The system calculates the error between the current temperature and the setpoint, adjusting the power output continuously. This eliminates the "overshoot" common in direct-fire gas systems.
Unlike a kettle on a stove, electric elements require flow. A sanitary centrifugal pump ensures constant wort velocity across the elements, maximizing heat transfer coefficients and ensuring a homogeneous mash temperature.
When evaluating an electric system, look at these three performance indicators (KPIs).
Efficiency is time. A well-engineered electric system should achieve a ramp rate of 1°C to 1.5°C per minute.
Why it matters: Slow heating extends the brew day and risks bacterial growth in the "danger zone" (20°C-50°C). Cassman systems are calculated to match the kilowatt (kW) output to the vessel volume for optimal ramp times.
Gas/Steam: Typically 50-70% efficient. Much heat is lost through the flue or steam piping radiation.
Electric: 99%+ Efficient. Since the element is submerged inside the liquid, there is zero transmission loss. Every kilowatt paid for is a kilowatt absorbed by the wort.
With PID control, an electric system can maintain a mash rest temperature within ±0.1°C. This precision is critical for enzymatic activity (Alpha vs. Beta Amylase), allowing you to dial in the exact fermentability and body of your beer.
For technical buyers, the decision often comes down to this comparison.
Feature | Electric Brewhouse | Steam Brewhouse |
Energy Efficiency | High (~99% Direct Transfer) | Medium (~70% System Efficiency) |
Capital Expenditure (CapEx) | Low (No boiler, no piping) | High (Boiler + Piping + Certification) |
Installation Complexity | Low (Wiring only) | High (Plumbing, Venting, Gas lines) |
Heating Speed | Moderate (Linear ramp) | Fast (High thermal shock) |
Maintenance | Low (Element cleaning) | High (Boiler inspections, Trap maintenance) |
Best For | 3 BBL - 15 BBL Microbreweries | 20 BBL+ Production Facilities |
The Verdict: For startups and brewpubs under 15 BBL, the ROI on an electric system is significantly higher due to the elimination of boiler infrastructure costs.
In the equipment market, "middlemen" add cost, not value.
Buying a Factory Direct Electric Brewhouse from Cassman offers distinct engineering advantages:
Custom Voltage Configuration: Whether your facility runs on 208V/3-Phase (USA), 415V (Australia), or 380V (Europe), we wire the elements and panels to match your local grid perfectly.
Sanitary Engineering: We control the welding process. Our ports are sanitary tri-clamp, and our welds are pickled and passivated to prevent the corrosion often seen in cheaper, re-sold units.
Direct Technical Support: If you have a question about your PID settings, you speak to the team that programmed it.
The modern Electric Brewhouse is a marvel of efficiency. It removes the variables of combustion and steam pressure, leaving the brewer with pure, controllable heat. For technical buyers focused on precision, energy efficiency, and reducing facility complexity, electric is the superior path.
At Cassman, we combine this technology with robust manufacturing to deliver systems that perform shift after shift.
Don't compromise on specs. Explore our Electric Brewhouse Specifications or contact our engineering team to discuss your power requirements and batch sizes.
Q: How difficult is it to clean electric heating elements?
A: It is straightforward with CIP (Clean-In-Place). However, we recommend a periodic manual inspection. Cassman designs tanks with removable elements (Tri-clamp connection) so they can be easily pulled out for deep cleaning if necessary.
Q: What are the power requirements for a 10 BBL electric system?
A: A typical 10 BBL system may require between 60kW to 90kW of power depending on the desired ramp rate. This usually necessitates a 3-phase commercial power connection. We provide detailed amperage charts for your electrician before purchase.
Q: Can I step mash with an electric system?
A: Absolutely. This is one of the biggest strengths of electric brewing. The PID controller can be programmed to ramp up temperatures automatically for protein rests, saccharification rests, and mash out.
Ready to start? Contact our team today:
Email: inquiry@cassmanbrew.com
Phone/WhatsApp/WeChat: +86 18560016154
Website: www.cassmanmachine.com
