Hop Filter / Hop Back

• Used in breweries to separate hop matter from wort after boiling, preventing carryover into fermentation.
• Functions as a hop back to impart hop aroma and flavour to wort through direct contact with whole leaf hops.
• Can be configured as a hop torpedo for dry hopping during or after fermentation, enhancing aromatic profiles.
• Suitable for craft breweries and microbreweries looking to improve beer clarity and hop utilisation.

Typical capacity

For this class of equipment, units commonly range from 50 litres to several hundred litres, depending on brewery scale.

Power supply

Hop filters/backs are typically unpowered, relying on gravity or pump pressure for wort transfer.

Fittings

Commonly found with standard brewery connections such as Tri-Clamp (e.g., 1.5" or 2") for easy integration.

Material construction

Units are typically constructed from food-grade stainless steel (e.g., 304 or 316) for hygiene and durability.

Mesh filtration

Mesh sizes commonly range from 200 to 500 microns, suitable for both pellet and whole leaf hops.

Footprint

Dimensions vary, but for this type of unit, it typically requires a floor space of approximately 0.5m x 0.5m to 1m x 1m, plus access for operation.

• What is the primary function of a hop filter/hop back?

  Its primary function is to remove hop solids from the wort post-boil, preventing them from entering the fermenter, and to infuse hop aroma and flavour into the wort.

• Can this unit handle both whole leaf and pellet hops?

• Is special installation required for a hop filter/hop back?

• How often does the mesh filter need to be cleaned or replaced?

• What are the benefits of using a hop back over simply adding hops to the boil kettle?

Brewing equipment holds strong reputation amongst craft and commercial operators for durability and consistent performance when well-maintained. Buyers typically prioritise checking vessel integrity, heating system functionality, and control calibration before purchase. Stainless steel construction resists corrosion effectively in brewery environments. Key strengths include longevity of core components and compatibility with established brewing protocols. Used units often represent significant cost savings whilst retaining reliable output. Prospective buyers should verify maintenance history and spare parts availability to ensure smooth operation.

General overview for this equipment type