Choosing specialist support from day one
Installed in 2022, Somerset-based Quantock Brewery operates a modern 30 hl Brew-Bloc 4 brewhouse producing around 3,200 litres per brew and typically brewing two to three times a week, with output flexing seasonally.
Steam sits at the heart of everything on the hot side, from heating brewing liquor to ensuring precise mash temperatures through to sterilising the wort via steam‑driven heat exchangers. During the planning stages for the new brewhouse, the brewery chose a steam generator rather than a conventional boiler due to its start‑stop brewing pattern demanding equipment that remained controllable and chemically stable even when production slowed or stopped.
From day one, Quantock Brewery recognised that its new steam plant represented a major capital outlay and required expert protection. Lead Brewer Daniel Enticott explains that the team identified a lack of knowledge as to how to appropriately look after a steam generator. “We deemed it prudent with such a significant investment to work with people who have experience in this matter.” he says. “Deep Water Blue therefore joined the project at inception, providing the water treatment programme, the vSteam digital management system and the chemicals as a single, integrated package.”
Turning early teething issues into stable operation
Early operation highlighted just how valuable that decision would become. Quantock Brewery moved from older, electrically‑heated equipment to a high‑performance steam generator and initially navigated some unfamiliar behaviours, including overfilling of the hotwell that silently carried precious treatment chemicals to drain.
Daniel recalls that Deep Water Blue’s specialists quickly spotted this. “The water going into the hotwell was marginally over filling, plus we had a leak, so this was causing our chemicals to essentially spill out. It took Deep Water Blue no time at all to spot the issues and help us correct our process and stabilise dosing.”
vSteam becomes the backbone of boiler water control
The vSteam platform soon became the backbone of daily boiler water control at Quantock Brewery, and Daniel describes the early learning curve. “After Deep Water Blue’s initial vSteam training, confidence grew and the platform quickly embedded itself into a simple, repeatable routine of twice‑weekly full test cycles, supported by additional on‑site checks.
“I now find that all the readings are reassuringly predictable, which gives us the confidence to keep the steam generator in its ideal working window, even when production eases back in quieter periods.” says Daniel.
Effortless communication and context for every reading
Communication through vSteam has proved particularly powerful. For each test submission, Daniel uses the built‑in notes to add context, such as explaining lower sulphite readings after a weekend and outlining the planned brewing pattern for the coming week.
He highlights this as the feature the brewery relies on most, the ability to communicate without having to call someone, without having to send an email, all while giving Deep Water Blue precise operational insight so that corrective advice is fast and relevant but never intrusive on the brewery’s time.
On‑site expertise and tailored training
Behind the scenes, Deep Water Blue’s water treatment specialists reinforce that digital connection with regular site visits and structured training.
Commenting for Deep Water Blue, water treatment specialist George Nixon explains that monthly engineer inspections provide a sounding board for any issues that arise, particularly during Daniel’s early period of familiarisation with the chemistry and equipment. “As well as regular calls and site visits, we also delivered a dedicated training day on boiler water and steam system care, timed for a quieter January period, which proved a really valuable piece of training that made a big difference for Daniel and his understanding of the way a brewery balances chemical control within the plant.”
Chemical consumption cut dramatically
The partnership delivers clear financial and operational gains. Over time, Deep Water Blue and Quantock Brewery have delivered a striking reduction in chemical consumption. At the outset, unfamiliarity and larger corrective doses pushed usage higher; by refining routines and tuning the system, the brewery has consistently, month upon month, lowered its chemical usage quite significantly.
“I’d estimate that chemical use has dropped and is in the region of half the original level, meaning the water treatment programme is almost certainly paying for itself.” says Daniel.
Continuous improvement in chemistry and performance
Continuous product development adds further value for Quantock and, in late 2024, Deep Water Blue’s chemists adjusted the chemical programme to better suit the site and improve alkalinity. For Daniel, this is further proof of a healthy relationship.
“This continuous improvement is evidence that Deep Water Blue treats each site individually rather than simply relying on the same chemicals working across for all its customers and across all the sites they manage.”
Supporting compliance and peace of mind
vSteam also supports awareness of regulatory developments by providing an announcements area where Deep Water Blue shares links and explanations for new guidance and legislation affecting steam systems.
While Quantock Brewery’s insurers do not currently request sight of the vSteam records directly, Daniel believes that the presence of a formal water treatment programme backed by specialist expertise and documented data gives robust assurance that the steam generator is being managed correctly.
Building confidence and protecting a critical asset
For Daniel, the most profound outcome is the strengthening of on‑site knowledge and confidence, describing the transition to the steam generator as significant for a brewery that had been operating for nearly 18 years on very different technology.
“Over time, Deep Water Blue’s guidance, both online and via phone, has taken us from an early learning phase, to looking after this equipment to a high standard, which is invaluable.
“This expertise protects a critical asset that runs into many tens of thousands of pounds, so the value of Deep Water Blue’s involvement is ultimately the price of the steam generator, and the potential to replace one if neglected!”
A relationship that is “definitely” recommend
Looking ahead, Quantock Brewery enjoys a robust, long‑term relationship with Deep Water Blue built on trust, responsiveness and shared problem‑solving. The service covers the full spectrum, from supply of optimised chemicals and vSteam platform access, to routine site visits and tailored training, all aligned to the brewery’s start‑stop production profile.
When asked whether he would recommend Deep Water Blue and vSteam to other breweries, Daniel’s answer is unequivocal: “I definitely would recommend it. It’s lowered our costs with regards to chemicals, it’s improved my knowledge of the equipment itself to the point where I can look after it a lot better.” |
