They are used in the filling process to generate foam ( foam is also referred to as "fobbing" ) in bottles or cans. This foam helps to expel air from the container, thereby reducing the oxygen content and preventing oxidation, which can negatively affect the taste and shelf life of the beer. Here's a detailed introduction to fobbing devices, their benefits, and their operation.
Introduction to Fobbing Devices
What is a Fobbing Device?
A fobbing device is a piece of equipment used in beverage bottling lines to create foam in bottles or cans after the liquid has been filled. This process ensures that the headspace ( the space between the liquid and the cap ) is filled with foam rather than air, minimizing the amount of oxygen in the container.
Benefits of Using Fobbing Devices
Reduction of Oxygen Content:
By displacing the air with foam, fobbing devices help reduce the oxygen content in the bottle or can, which is crucial for maintaining the beer's freshness and preventing oxidation.
Improved Shelf Life:
Lower oxygen levels in the container extend the shelf life of the beer, keeping it fresh and flavorful for a longer period.
Enhanced Flavor Preservation:
Preventing oxidation helps preserve the intended flavor profile of the beer, ensuring that consumers enjoy the product as the brewer intended.
Consistency:
Fobbing devices ensure consistent foam formation across all containers, which helps maintain uniform quality in mass production.
How Fobbing Devices Work
Filling:
After the beer is filled into the bottle or can, the container is moved to the fobbing station.
Foam Generation:
The fobbing device injects a small amount of CO2 or uses ultrasonic waves to agitate the beer, causing it to foam. This foam rises to the top of the container.
Air Displacement:
The foam pushes the air out of the headspace, ensuring that the remaining space is filled with CO2-rich foam instead of air.
Capping/Sealing:
While the foam is still present, the container is immediately sealed with a cap or lid. This traps the CO2 inside and prevents air from entering.
Types of Fobbing Devices
CO2 Injection Fobbing Devices:
These devices inject a controlled amount of carbon dioxide into the container to create foam.
Ultrasonic Fobbing Devices:
These devices use ultrasonic waves to agitate the liquid, causing it to foam.
Thermal Fobbing Devices:
These devices use a slight temperature change to induce foaming.
