ABB unveils process automation solution for cold block stage of beer production 

SWITZERLAND – ABB, a leading technology company specializing in electrification and automation, has introduced a technology solution tailored for the cold block stage of the brewing process.

This move aims to support breweries in optimizing their processes, adopting digital solutions, and fostering sustainability.

The cold block stage encompasses vital brewing processes, including fermentation and maturation, yeast management, filtration, bright beer tanks (BBT) area, cleaning in place (CIP), and secondary processes.

ABB’s solution utilizes modular automation, digital capabilities, simulation technology, and advanced process control (APC) to address current challenges and anticipate future developments in the brewing landscape.

According to ABB, this technology is designed to benefit customers seeking improvements in process efficiency, reduction of energy and water consumption, and increased productivity.

The foundation of this innovative solution lies in the ABB Ability System 800xA distributed control system (DCS). This system offers a comprehensive technological package comprising ready-made and tested master recipes, processes, templates, and objects.

According to ABB, brewmasters can easily customize these elements based on a variety of configuration and recipe parameters, granting them a versatile production tool without limits on schedules or creativity.

Gernut van Laak, global food and beverage solution manager at ABB, said: “Given the growing scale of the beer industry in Europe and worldwide, driving efficiencies across the beermaking operation is a greater priority than ever. Therefore, finding innovative ways to do this while also operating more sustainably and reducing downtime is vital.”

He expressed satisfaction that ABB’s automated solution with digital capabilities for digital twin testing and advanced process control (APC) will enable improved beer production.

The new technology, known as BeerMaker, will feature the cold block functionality and is scheduled to be available from January 2024. Breweries can anticipate enhanced control and efficiency in their brewing processes with this state-of-the-art solution.

ABB recognized with ‘A’ score

In parallel, ABB has garnered recognition for its leadership in corporate transparency and outstanding performance on climate change from the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP).

ABB secured a spot on the CDP’s annual ‘A-List,’ which acknowledges companies for their commitment to addressing environmental impacts and risks.

Anke Hampel, Group Head of Sustainability at ABB, said: “ABB is taking a rigorous science-based net-zero targets approach in line with the Net-Zero Standard of the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

Inclusion in CDP’s A List is an important recognition of our approach to sustainability and our commitment to setting ambitious and meaningful sustainability targets.”

As part of its commitment to sustainability, ABB has submitted new targets to SBTi for validation in 2024. These targets include 1.5°C-aligned Scope 1 and 2 targets, aiming for an 80 percent reduction in CO2e emissions by 2030 and 100 percent by 2050 compared to a 2019 baseline.

ABB has already achieved a commendable 72 percent reduction in Scopes 1 and 2 CO2e emissions on a 12-month rolling average as of Q3 2023, compared to 2019.

Additionally, the company has set ambitious Scope 3 CO2e emissions targets with a goal of a 25 percent reduction by 2030 and 90 percent by 2050 compared to a 2022 baseline.

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