The challenge

Simpsons Malt, a fifth-generation, family-run malting business in Berwick Upon Tweed, required a new lighting system to replace the existing one within the Germination & Kilning Vessel (GKV). The LEDs within the existing system were burning out and needing replaced every three months, due to the high temperatures and moist conditions within the vessel.

The second and third stages of the malting process – germination and kilning – take place within the GKV. During germination, the grains grow in temperature and humidity-controlled conditions for around 4 days, while kilning sees the temperature in the vessel increase to up to 85 degrees, which dries the grain down in 20-24 hours to create the finished malt product.

Due to the moisture and heat within the vessel, the new solution had to be durable within this environment and be compliant with the various constraints put upon businesses who handle and treat foods intended for consumption.

The solution

After various discussions with the client, Ecolighting gained a thorough understanding of the requirements and set about choosing the best product for installation. That product was the Sammode Joule, a product with a specially protected LED source. The waterproof tubular housing is compatible with temperature variations and humidity – meaning it would exhibit the best possible durability for the client.

Given the unique environment within the GKV, a test was arranged and proved to be a success. A redesign of the existing lighting was then completed by the Ecolighting team, maximising cost against the project’s specification and compliance constraints.

Simon Taylor, Founder of Ecolighting Systems said:

“On top of delivering the best possible lighting solution for Simpsons Malt, we had to ensure safety and compliance that’s unique to this particular space. That meant ensuring that all cable containment and fixtures were welded to the stainless-steel ceiling. And given that longevity of the lights are a key priority for the client, we added a control so that the lights will automatically switch off when temperatures exceed 70 degrees, which should increase their lifespan.”

Product information on the Sammode Joule Fitting

Please click here to visit the Simpsons Malt website