maltmashtønde

The maltmashtønde, often referred to as a mash tun in English brewing terminology, is a crucial piece of equipment in the mashing process of brewing. Its primary function is to steep milled malted grains in hot water to convert starches into fermentable sugars. This process, known as mashing, is fundamental to beer production.

Maltmashtønder can vary significantly in size, from small homebrewing vessels to large industrial tanks. They are typically constructed from materials like stainless steel or copper, chosen for their durability, heat conductivity, and resistance to corrosion. Many maltmashtønder are equipped with a false bottom or a perforated screen. This feature allows the wort, the sweet liquid containing the sugars, to drain away from the spent grains while retaining the grain bed itself.

Temperature control is vital during mashing, and maltmashtønder often have systems for heating and maintaining specific temperatures. This can involve external heating jackets, internal steam coils, or simply relying on the initial hot water temperature. The design also considers efficient mixing to ensure even contact between the water and the malt. After the mashing process is complete, the spent grains are typically removed, and the wort is transferred for the next stage of brewing.