New Digital Technology Delivers Cost Effective Temperature Monitoring Systems For Your Winery

Australian & New Zealand Grapegrower & Winemaker July 2005, pg 54

http://www.grapeandwine.com.au/

Temperature monitoring is important throughout the entire winemaking process, from grape receival right through to storage and maturation of the wine.  Temperature is important in terms of its effect on oxidation rate, microbial activity, fermentation kinetics, aroma and flavour outcomes as well as maturation and evaporation rates.

Using the latest technology in temperature measuring techniques, the Synolog series of temperature monitoring/logging products allow the winemaker to keep track of all the important areas of temperature monitoring throughout the whole process using a cost effective solution.

The Synolog unit interfaces with the Synoprobe digital temperature probe, which means that unlike the old technology of thermocouples, the temperature is calculated at the source.  This ensures a high degree of accuracy and minimal interference due to the use of a digital interface, which can be error checked.  The temperature is calculated at the source with a factory calibrated sensor and so does not require user calibration as with many thermocouple type products.  This allows the Synolog unit to be plugged into various Synoprobe digital temperature probes without the need for calibration.

Digital technology also means each Synoprobe has a distinct serial number that can be detected and recorded in the Synolog unit.  This allows probes to be strategically placed throughout the winery.  A staff member can carry a single Synolog unit and plug it into each site giving an immediate reading and recording of the temperature at that time.  The probe serial number detected is also recorded allowing the user to distinguish between probes.  Alternatively Synolog units can be placed on each probe to have a continuous recording and monitoring option for individual probes.  The data can be downloaded into the PC for analysis and to keep records for future reference.

In addition to custom probes various standard probes are available including a 1m long pistol grip handheld version.  The Synolog unit attaches directly on the back of the grip allowing easy viewing and operation.  Some uses include measuring the temperature of fruit arriving at the winery and measuring the temperature of open fermenters.  A probe incorporated into a barrel bung (standard or fermentation bung) allows continuous monitoring and recording of a barrel ferment or wine maturation.  Probes are also available to fit standard tank temperature ports in varying lengths to suit your situation.

Whether the Synolog unit is used on various probes throughout the winery or in a fixed position, high and low alarms can be set to provide an audible and visual alarm indicating the probe temperature is outside these presets.  These alarms keep winemaking staff informed of undesirable conditions and these events will also be shown in the graph when the data is downloaded.

WE Ware & Co. has been named an Australia & New Zealand distributor for the Synolog/Synoprobe products.  Speak to their friendly team about your requirements - with their expertise in stainless steel products a tailor made solution is possible to suit any application.