Dealcoholization Systems

Advantages of SIGMATEC Dealcoholization Systems:

• Complete dealcoholization of the feed product to less than 0.1 % alcohol by volume.
• Heating can be performed either with hot water or steam.
• Energy consumption is considerably less than competitive systems of same capital cost.
• Feed capacities of 4 to 100 hl/h (1.5 to 37 gpm) are capable in a single system.
• The dealcoholization process is continuous and can be automatically controlled.
• No effluent problems. Even the carbon dioxide can be used for further processing.

The fluid flows down the column at a temperature between 43 to 48°C (109 to 118°F). The product contacts rising vapors in counter flow, which bring about the selective separation of the alcohol from the product.

The alcohol free wine or beer is then fed from the bottom of the column into an evaporator. Vapors are produced in the evaporator, which are necessary for the rectification process, and these are then redirected into the column. The completely dealcoholized product is then cooled and pumped out of the plant.

The alcohol rich vapors pass from the stripping section to the rectification section where they are concentrated to 35% alcohol. Further rectification is possible using an explosion proof control and instrumentation design to produce a byproduct of up to 75% alcohol by volume. The concentrated vapors are condensed, cooled and stored as industrial alcohol. This is a sellable product that can be marketed immediately.

In the patented Aroma Recovery Unit, aromatic components are recovered and redirected into the wine or beer, eliminating any flavor losses. This feature of the SIGMATEC is a major advantage over competitive technologies as confirmed by independent studies and international awards for dealcoholized products.