W – as in Wash Charger

What is a Wash Charger?

The wash charger is a vessel in which the wash is temporarily stored as needed on its way from the washback to the pot still, before it enters the distillation process.

https://youtu.be/3LCcwtucuwM

What capacity does a Wash Charger have?

At St. Kilian Distillers, the two wash chargers are large stainless steel tanks with capacities of 17,550 litres and 12,000 litres respectively.

Why is the Wash Charger used?

Sometimes there is a bottleneck in the production process. For example, washbacks that are needed might still be occupied. The wash charger offers the possibility to pump the wash (= beer) from the washback through pipelines into the stainless steel tank after the main fermentation, where the residual fermentation can then take place. This frees up the washback, which can then be refilled with wort after cleaning.

What are the advantages of a Wash Charger?

This temporary storage of the wash in the wash charger allows us to mash in more quickly and produce new wort in the mash tun, which is then fermented in the previously emptied washbacks using our whisky yeast M1. In our two wash chargers, a total of 2.5 washes can be temporarily stored, based on volume. The quantity of 2.5 washes corresponds to approximately two production days. This means that with the help of these buffer tanks, we can produce one to three more batches per week – depending on shift operation – with the same technical setup and manpower, thereby increasing our production capacity. The wash charger can also serve as a buffer to slow down the production process if needed.

How is the Wash Charger integrated into the production system?

Our wash chargers are connected to the wooden washbacks via stainless steel pipes and pneumatic valves. All pipes and buffer tanks are integrated into the cleaning cycle of our production facility, as cleanliness and hygiene are indispensable foundations for maximum quality and excellent productivity.

Is a Wash Charger a German invention?

No. The principle of the wash charger has proven its worth in whisky distilleries in Scotland. Most wash chargers there are now made of stainless steel, which is easier to clean, rather than wood.