Optimizing Sparge Variables to Maximize Sugar Extraction From Barley Malt
We designed and built a lab-scale brewing system to improve sparging efficiency at Sager Beer Works. Using a Design of Experiments (DOE) approach, we tested the effects of bed velocity, rake speed, and bed depth-to-width ratio on sugar extraction. While no single variable showed statistically significant impact due to trial variability, trials using a rake consistently improved extraction by reducing channeling. Findings highlight the importance of rake use, false bottom design, and grain bed disruption for future system optimization.
