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Industry
Brewing industry
Challenge
Labor-intensive and costly diatomaceous-earth (DE) filtration process
Solution
Pentair's BMF +Flux Compact S4 membrane filtration system
Results
Eliminated DE handling, fully automated process, consistent beer quality, and improved freshness
How Pentair’s Beer Membrane Filtration Transformed a Dutch Brewery
In the heart of the Netherlands, De Hollandse Pilsener Fabriek (formerly known as Princen Brewery) has carved out a name for itself by challenging the status quo. Since its founding in 2013, the brewery has focused on producing a premium pilsner that could rival established brands. With a growing annual output of 20,000 hectoliters, De Hollandse needed a filtration solution that matched its ambition for quality, efficiency, and innovation.
That solution came in the form of Pentair’s Beer Membrane Filtration (BMF) +Flux Compact S4—a compact, fully automated system designed specifically for craft and small breweries producing between 10,000 and 100,000 hectoliters annually.
From DE to BMF: A Strategic Shift
Initially, De Hollandse relied on traditional diatomaceous earth (DE) filtration, a method known for its labor intensity and complex handling requirements. DE filtration posed several challenges: iron content, oxygen intake, sedimentation issues, and the need for rigorous quality management. Moreover, the environmental and logistical burden of DE supply and disposal clashed with De Hollandse's goal of delivering premium beer with minimal manual labor. Seeking a cleaner, more efficient alternative, De Hollandse partnered with Pentair in early 2016 to pilot a BMF system.
The pilot system ran nearly 24/7 to meet production demands until the full-scale BMF +Flux Compact S4 was installed in January 2017.
“We realized straight away that there was no going back to DE filtration.”
Mark Schneider, former director of Princen Brewery (now De Hollandse Pilsener Fabriek).
Compact Design, Big Impact
The BMF +Flux Compact S4 system installed at De Hollandse Pilsener Fabriek features four R-30 membrane modules, offering a filtration capacity of 30 to 60 hectoliters per hour. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for breweries with limited space. The unit is preassembled on a stainless steel frame and requires only basic utility connections: beer in/out, water, power, compressed air, and CO₂. This plug-and-play design allows for seamless integration into De Hollandse's existing operations, delivering immediate benefits in terms of automation, consistency, and product quality.
A Fresh Take on Filtration
Pentair has been a pioneer in DE-free beer membrane filtration since launching the first commercial BMF system in 2002. With over 200 systems now filtering more than 200 million hectoliters of beer annually, the technology has matured into a reliable and scalable solution. The BMF +Flux Compact S4 brings this innovation to smaller breweries, offering:
- No Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Handling
Eliminates the need for DE, reducing health risks, environmental impact, and operational complexity. - Increased Uptime and Higher Yield
Optimized filtration cycles and minimal maintenance reduce system downtime, boosting overall production efficiency. - Consistent Beer Quality
Membrane-based filtration prevents iron pick-up, enhancing taste stability and ensuring a fresher, cleaner flavor profile. - Ideal for Batch Filtration
Designed to support flexible, start-stop operations—perfect for craft and seasonal beer production. - Enhanced Microbiological Safety
Reliable retention of yeast and significant reduction of beer-spoiling bacteria ensures longer shelf life and product integrity.
“Membrane filtration has made our beer much fresher and lighter.” “Our analyses show this just as clearly as the positive feedback from the market.”
Mark Schneider
Brewing the Future
De Hollandse’s successful transition to membrane filtration is a testament to the power of innovation in craft brewing. By adopting Pentair’s BMF +Flux Compact S4, the brewery not only improved its product but also streamlined its operations, setting a new standard for quality and efficiency in the industry. For craft and small breweries aiming to scale without compromising quality, the BMF +Flux Compact S4 offers a compelling path forward.
A Brewery Evolves
Since its early success with BMF, Princen Brewery has undergone transformation. In 2020, it rebranded as Brouwerij Nieuw Holland, and by 2021, it became known as De Hollandse Pilsener Fabriek. Today, the brewery continues to build on its legacy of innovation and quality under new leadership.
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