The source of carbonization is carbon dioxide. For centuries, it has influenced the taste of a variety of beverages. Long before the existence of various mechanical carbonization systems carbonated water was sipped from natural springs. Enterprising individuals bottled and sold the water as a health tonic. Years before the invention of the inline beer carbonator, people were using CO2 to improve the “mouth feel” of beverages.
What Is Carbonization?
Carbonization is the presence and/or production of CO2 in a substance. As mentioned above, it was a component of many natural spring waters. It is also a common result of the fermentation of those ingredients – specifically yeast, employed in the making of beer and other drinks. Yeast reacts with the glucose in the wort, converting it into
- Ethyl Alcohol: This provides the brew with its alcoholic content
- Carbon Dioxide Gas: This is responsible for carbonization – the fizz and mouth feel of the brew
Today’s breweries do not rely on yeast to produce sufficient carbonization for their various beers. Instead, they turn to the faster, more reliable and consistent mechanical methods. These include the traditional brite tank and the more modern inline system. Of the two, the inline beer carbonator is proving to be very popular among both commercial and craft brewers.
What Is an Inline Carbonating System?
The term “inline” provides a clear indication of where the process occurs. Unlike other carbonating systems, which employ a tank or other larger vessels, this method uses a pipe. The carbonization of the brew occurs while the liquid flows along within the pipe moving towards its destination. The system finds favor among large and small brewers for several reasons. It:
- Allows control over the level of carbonization
- Establishes and retains precise quality control measures
- Produces a consistent level of carbonization
All these factors ensure that every beer that emerges from the inline carbonating system contains the same level of carbonization. This consistency of carbonization ensures the consumer can savor every beer with identical enjoyment.
Inline Beer Carbonator: The Advantages Are Real
Carbonating beer the natural way is an idealistic approach. It may not be feasible for most brewers. Electing mechanical means to carbonize beer is practical. It also eliminates chance. Using modern methods ensures carbonization levels meet the standards acceptable and expected by the consumer. While diverse carbonization systems exist, many brewers, for accuracy, consistency and quality control, rely on the technological development known as an inline beer carbonator.
