NOTES TECH

ABB Launches New Process Automation Solution for Cold Block Stage of Beer Production

ABB has launched its technology solution for the cold block stage of the brewing process to further support breweries in their operational efficiency and in the adoption of digital solutions.

The cold block stage of the brewing process involves fermentation and maturation, yeast management, filtration, bright beer tanks (BBT) area, cleaning in place (CIP), and all secondary processes. These are the stages at which variations in recipe and flavor can be managed and introduced, which is particularly important to brewers. ABB uses modular automation, digital capabilities, simulation technology, and advanced process control (APC) to ensure the solution will support customers’ current challenges and future developments.

It will benefit customers who require a solution to improve and optimize their processes, reduce their energy and water consumption, and increase productivity. The solution is based on the ABB Ability™ System 800xA® distributed control system (DCS).

With its primary focus on breweries, ABB Ability™ BeerMaker provides users with a technological package of ready-made and tested master recipes, processes, templates, and objects that can be easily adapted to their needs by using a variety of configuration/recipe parameters and control schemes. Brewmasters receive a powerful production tool that imposes no limits on their production schedules or creativity. www.abb.com

Willow Industries Introduces Innovative Air Filtration System

Willow Industries, the leader in cannabis decontamination technology and microbial control services, announced the launch of WillowAir, an air filtration system designed to capture and remove airborne contaminants, providing safer workplaces for employees and a direct solution to one of the main factors in contaminated product: air quality.

Addressing the industry’s heightened need for employee safety, Willow Industries has engineered a science-backed and cost-effective solution to the evolving needs of the industry. The WillowAir system effectively counters inhalation hazards of ground cannabis dust, respiratory irritants, airborne pathogens like Aspergillus, and overall health risks in cultivation environments. As a multifunctional system, WillowAir plays an equally crucial role in combating the pervasive threat of airborne contaminants affecting plant quality, product safety, and regulatory compliance. By lowering exposure to microbial burden and cross-contamination, the system proactively maintains a clean environment throughout upstream processes. www.willowindustries.com

Ahlstrom Plans to Invest in a New Production Line for Molecular Filtration Media

Ahlstrom is investing in a new production line for molecular filtration media in Turin, Italy. Air quality in closed environments such as buildings and vehicles is a major concern in many areas of the world. In this context, particulate filter media play an important role in removing solid particles and aerosols from the air. Molecular filter media are used in complement, removing gaseous pollutants, including volatile organic compounds, inorganic gases (such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, ammonia), and odors, and delivering the cleanest air to people and processes.

The new line is being designed to produce the highest-performance adsorbent materials for premium filtration applications, including next-generation cabin air and fuel cell air intake, as well as a complete range for HVAC and cleanrooms. It will enable Ahlstrom to offer superior solutions for customers and support their industrial filtration application development as well as the transition to electric vehicles.

The investment is made in synergy with Ahlstrom’s Fine Fiber platform in Turin, which will be upgraded to produce HEPA filtration layers. Fine Fiber media can be combined with molecular filtration materials also to deliver the best protection against the finest particles. www.ahlstrom.com