Software for breweries – modularised solutions for the production process

The production process for beer requires specialist knowledge: software for breweries from Krones images the entire sequence involved, and thanks to its modularised structure can be used for all sizes of plant.
First of all, the Botec F1 process control system ensures ultra-efficient brewing processes; this is supplemented by control concepts and software solutions for interfacing the utilities with the actual process.
Using Profibus interfacing, the brewery’s utilities are integrated into its overall process control system: this enables the data from the refrigeration system and the steam generator, plus the compressed-air unit, to be utilised both in process planning and on the manufacturing-execution level. Above and beyond the actual boiling and heat-up times, precise statements can be made on factors like consumption levels and provision temperatures.

Software modules: production planning system and production data acquisition
By integrating a production planning system, raw materials availability and production duration for the individual brews can be effectively coordinated, thus creating synergised production conditions. The other important aspect for the production process is the Line Documentation System LDS. The recording of measured values and counter readings from the fermentation and storage cellar, right down to the consumption figures for the individual utilities, creates invaluable transparency. Documenting these data is essential for drawing conclusions on production parameters and quality levels, and for creating diagnostic options for the operating sequences involved.
Recipes and the configuration of the process steps are all filed in an SQL database, which via an Ethernet network supplies the PC workstations in the control rooms. With availability of these data in the office information systems, the software used in breweries links the industrial technology concerned for process control purposes with the office systems for documentation and monitoring of all production data.