Kilning Flashcards
What is kilning?
The final stage of malting and the most energy intensive process
It takes 24 to 48 hours to achieve the required moisture level.
What is the ideal bed depth during kilning?
Around 0.75 m
This reduces differences between malt produced in the bottom and top of the bed.
What is the moisture content target for malted barley after kilning?
3-6%
This allows for safe transportation and storage.
List the reasons for kilning green malt.
- To reduce moisture content
- To stop growth of the embryo
- To produce unique flavours and colours
- To drive off dimethyl sulphide (DMS)
- To create a product that can be easily milled
Each reason contributes to the quality and usability of the malt.
What percentage of all energy in the malting process does kilning typically consume?
75-85%
Kilning is therefore a significant energy-intensive process.
What temperature condition is used in kilns to evaporate moisture?
High air-on temperatures
This helps in driving off moisture efficiently.
What is the significance of the relative humidity of the incoming air in kilning?
It is low, resulting in moisture moving from the kernel to the air
This aids in effective drying of the grain.
What is the typical grain moisture received in the kiln?
43-46%
This moisture level is crucial for the drying process.
What can happen if the final moisture level of malt is lower than 3%?
It is a waste of energy and the malt produced can be too brittle
Maintaining the correct moisture level is essential for malt quality.
How does exposure to high temperatures affect enzymes in malt?
The longer the exposure, the more enzymes are lost
High enzyme malts may have moistures around 8% to preserve enzyme activity.
What is the relationship between grain moisture and air-on temperature in kilning?
Higher grain moisture requires lower air-on temperature
High moisture combined with high temperature destroys enzymes.
