A Dedicated Monitor for Beer Fermentation
The QWX43 is designed specifically around the needs of beer fermentation. Instead of relying only on individual laboratory checks, it continuously observes several important process parameters directly in the fermentation tank.
Density, viscosity, temperature and ultrasonic velocity are measured continuously, providing a much clearer view of how the fermentation process is developing.
More Than a Single Measurement
The QWX43 combines several measured values to calculate important fermentation information such as degree of fermentation, residual extract, original gravity and alcohol content.
The measured ranges include density from 0.95 to 1.15 g/cm³, viscosity from 0 to 20 mPa·s, temperature from -5 to +35°C, and sound velocity from 1200 to 1800 m/s. Calculated values include extract up to 32° Plato and alcohol up to 12 %mass.
Real-Time Fermentation Monitoring
The QWX43 updates the relevant process information minute by minute, allowing brewers to follow fermentation without relying exclusively on manual sampling and laboratory analysis.
This makes it easier to see process changes as they happen and compare fermentation behavior between batches.
Designed for Direct Tank Installation
The monitor is installed directly in the fermentation tank, with hygienic process connections including Tri-Clamp ISO2852, DIN11851, DRD and Varivent N.
Its hygienic construction is designed to support tank-integrated cleaning, making it suitable for modern brewery process environments.
Accuracy That Supports Process Decisions
The QWX43 provides measured errors of 0.0001 g/cm³ for density, 0.02 mPa·s for viscosity, 0.08°C for temperature and 0.23 m/s for sound velocity.
These measurements provide the basis for the calculated fermentation parameters and allow the brewing process to be followed with consistent, repeatable data.
Direct Connection to Automation and IIoT
Measured and calculated data can be integrated directly into the control system through TCP/IP communication with PLCs.
The QWX43 can also communicate with Endress+Hauser Netilion Cloud services, allowing fermentation data to be accessed remotely and used for batch comparison, process monitoring and historical analysis.
Built for Hygienic Brewing Applications
The QWX43 is constructed in accordance with EHEDG and 3-A hygienic requirements and complies with EC 1935/2004. It is intended for hygienic fermentation processes where direct integration into the production tank is required.
Key Features
- Dedicated fermentation monitor for beer production
- Continuous measurement of density, viscosity, temperature and ultrasonic velocity
- Calculates key fermentation parameters
- Extract measurement/calculation up to 32° Plato
- Alcohol calculation up to 12 %mass
- Density range 0.95 to 1.15 g/cm³
- Viscosity range 0 to 20 mPa·s
- Temperature measurement range -5 to +35°C
- Sound velocity range 1200 to 1800 m/s
- Process temperature -10 to +110°C
- Process pressure vacuum to 16 bar
- Direct PLC communication via TCP/IP
- Netilion Cloud connectivity
- Hygienic tank-integrated design
- Tri-Clamp, DIN11851, DRD and Varivent N connections
- EHEDG and 3-A conform construction
- EC 1935/2004 compliant
- Optional tube extension, 5 m cable and M12 plug connector
- No Ex certification
Typical Applications
Beer Fermentation
Continuous monitoring of density, viscosity, temperature and ultrasonic velocity throughout the fermentation process.
Fermentation Tanks
Direct installation in fermentation vessels for real-time monitoring without relying entirely on manual sampling.
Brewery Process Control
Integration with PLC systems allows fermentation data to become part of the brewery's automated process control system.
Batch Comparison
Historical fermentation data can be used to compare batches and identify differences in fermentation behavior.
Remote Process Monitoring
With Netilion connectivity, fermentation data can be accessed remotely through internet-enabled devices.
Process Optimization
Continuous measurement provides a data-based view of fermentation progress and can help operators understand process changes more quickly.
FAQ
What does the Endress+Hauser QWX43 measure?
The QWX43 continuously measures density, viscosity, temperature and ultrasonic velocity during beer fermentation.
Does the QWX43 directly measure alcohol content?
Alcohol content is a calculated value, rather than a direct sensor measurement. The QWX43 calculates alcohol content based on the measured fermentation parameters.
What is the maximum alcohol range?
The specified calculated alcohol range is up to 12 %mass.
What is the extract range?
The QWX43 can calculate extract values up to 32° Plato.
Can the QWX43 be installed directly in a fermentation tank?
Yes. The QWX43 is designed for direct installation in fermentation tanks and uses hygienic process connections.
What are the process temperature and pressure limits?
The process temperature range is -10 to +110°C, with process pressure from vacuum to 16 bar.
Can the QWX43 communicate with a PLC?
Yes. The QWX43 supports direct communication with PLC systems via TCP/IP.
Can fermentation data be monitored remotely?
Yes. The QWX43 can communicate with Endress+Hauser Netilion Cloud services, allowing fermentation data to be accessed remotely.
Is the QWX43 suitable for hygienic applications?
Yes. The QWX43 has an hygienic design and is constructed in accordance with EHEDG and 3-A requirements, with compliance to EC 1935/2004.
Does the QWX43 have hazardous-area certification?
No. The current Endress+Hauser specification lists no Ex certificates for the QWX43.
