Prediction of the Lautering Performance of Malt

The lautering performance of malt in a laboratory column can be predicted from the results of a series of simple analytical estimations. For normal commercial malts, prediction of lautering rates requires measurement of particle size after passage through a roller mill, combined with results from a simple sedimentation test. For poorly-modified malts a laboratory scale mashing operation is additionally required. This allows estimation of the volume of fine particles in the exhausted mash bed and a measurement of wort viscosity.