A Hidden Strain on Brewery Facilities: How Venn Brewing Solved Its High-Temperature Drainage Challenges
Story by:
Bob DiPlacido
Drainage systems may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about brewery operations, but they play a major role in keeping production spaces safe, efficient, and reliable. For breweries handling high-temperature fluids, the wrong drainage materials can lead to costly wear, maintenance issues, and operational headaches.
When Venn Brewing built its new manufacturing facility in St. Paul, Minnesota, the team needed a system built to withstand the demands of modern beer production.
A Hidden Challenge
Behind the scenes in brewery operations, managing high-temperature fluids is a constant challenge. Over time, sustained heat can accelerate wear and tear on drainage systems, resulting in warped, degraded or cracked materials and potential operational disruption.
Venn Brewing, a taproom and coffee shop in Minnesota, was building a new manufacturing facility in St. Paul, and needed a durable drainage system capable of handling high-temperature fluids with long-term reliability and minimal maintenance.
The facility implemented the PRO-PLUS® trench drain system and the PRO-SNAP® Grate Securing System by Josam, a Watts brand. All in, they installed 200 feet of trench drainage.
Designing for High-Temperature Environments
Material selection is one of the most important considerations when a brewery is choosing an effective drainage system. Traditional materials like polymer concrete fail over time when exposed to extreme temperatures.
Josam’s PRO-PLUS trench drain system, made from glass-fiber reinforced polyester (GRP), is designed to maintain durability and rigidity in high-heat environments. Capable of handling continuous temperatures up to 212°F and intermittent spikes up to 394°F, the system provided the thermal resistance required for the production of beer. Its SMC/GRP material is 1.5 times stronger than polymer concrete and offers resistance to abrasion, chemicals, oils, and acids, helping the drainage system withstand the test of time.
Beyond strength, thermal stability is another critical factor in maintaining efficient drainage performance. The PRO-PLUS is designed with lower thermal expansion properties, helping maintain structural integrity under the most extreme temperatures.
Ease of maintenance was a priority for the Venn Brewing team, leading them to select Josam’s PRO-SNAP stainless steel grate securing system. The PRO-SNAP eliminates the need for bolts or special tools with its tool-free removal design, expediting routine cleaning.
As Venn Brewing was looking for a trench drainage system early in the process of building its new manufacturing facility, flexibility in design was essential. The PRO-PLUS offers a variety of widths, depths, and grate options that are adaptable for customized layouts.
Supporting Long-Term Brewery Operations
Although drainage systems aren’t the first thing that brewers consider, they are essential for operations to run seamlessly. By leveraging Josam’s trench drain solutions, Venn Brewing can effectively manage high-temperature fluids for years to come. Systems like Josam’s PRO-PLUS and PRO-SNAP allow brewery teams to stay focused on what matters most: brewing quality beer and delivering a consistently pleasant experience for their customers.
Photos Courtesy Venn Brewing
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