If you are looking to buy a fermentation tank, you should do your homework first. You may want to get quotes from different providers so you can get the best deal. Given below are few tips that can help you make the purchase based on your budget and needs.
Materials
The majority of wineries for large wine tanks are made of stainless steel. In the past, oak vats were quite popular. However, these days steel is preferred because of the advantage is it offers. The reason is that it is cost-effective and much easier to maintain. You can also purchase plastic tanks but they won’t be that durable.
Temperature Control
Since the process of fermentation releases a lot of heat, make sure you take the right steps to remove the excess heat. So the tank you are going to purchase should come with temperature controls.
Cooling Jackets
These jackets are wrapped around the tank. Also, the hot or cold liquid is passed through the cooling jackets. Before you contact a supplier, make sure you consider your winemaking goals. The supplier can give you suggestions to help you install the cooling jackets.
Insulation
It is even better if your fermentation tank is insulated. As far as insulation is concerned, you can choose from a lot of options. You can discuss the matter with your supplier to choose the best option.
Types of Tanks
Plastic Tanks
If you are just starting out, you may want to purchase plastic fermentation tanks. Usually, winemakers choose polyethylene plastic buckets. Some suppliers also provide customized plastic tanks that feature airtight lids.
If you are on a budget, plastic tanks are your ideal choice. But the problem is that they are not durable and may cause the production of bacteria.
Stainless Steel Tanks
These thanks are a better option than plastic tanks. However, they are a bit more expensive. The major benefit of these tanks is that they offer durability. If maintained well, they can stand the test of time. Good quality tanks don’t cause bacterial contamination either.
Variable Volume Tanks
This tank is innovative as you can change the height of the lid. Therefore, you can adjust the height of the lid in order to minimize the oxygenation. Usually, variable volume tanks are made of stainless steel. Mostly, commercial wineries use this type of thanks.
Oak Tanks/Vats
Traditionally, oak tanks were used for wine fermentation. Although they are not used commercially, some winemakers still use them as a stylistic choice. Although you don’t have to use oak vats for fermentation, they are used to enjoy the benefits of oak.
Nowadays, many wineries put some oak chips in their stainless steel fermentation tanks. This is done in order to gain the unique qualities of oak while using the modern equipment.
In short, you may want to follow these steps to choose the right type of wine fermentation tank to meet your needs. Hopefully, these tips will help you make the right choice based on your needs and budget.