Hydrogen-Powered Coffee Roaster Introduced by Probat

Hydrogen-Powered Coffee Roaster Introduced by Probat

Here’s an article posted in GCR Mag that talks about the hydrogen-powered coffee roaster developed by Probat.’

According to the article,

• Probat is transitioning to a hydrogen-powered industrial roasting infrastructure at its own roasting site..
• Chief Technology Officer, Thomas Koziorowski, considers hydrogen the future of coffee roasting.
• Probat plans to launch a hydrogen-powered P12 shop roaster and the first hydrogen-powered Px 120 drum roaster in the near future

Let’s delve into the process behind this technology, elaborating on specific data points and informative facts:

1. Introduction of Hydrogen Power: Probat’s hydrogen-powered shop roaster, the P05, was unveiled at the Connecting Markets symposium in 2022. This roaster marks a shift towards utilizing hydrogen as a clean energy source for coffee roasting.
2. Technical Modifications: While the outer appearance of the hydrogen roaster resembles traditional roasters, significant modifications are made internally. The burner is adapted to utilize hydrogen, necessitating a different heating furnace and valve system approved for hydrogen use.
3. Software Adaptation: Specialized software is developed to control the burner, as hydrogen is mixed with air for combustion. Despite these technical changes, the operational mode and heating capacity of the roaster remain consistent with conventional models.
4. Installation Process: Implementing the hydrogen roaster into existing infrastructure is relatively straightforward for customers, especially for shop roasters. It involves setting up a separate pipeline network within the roastery and installing monitoring sensors to detect any leaks promptly.
5. Industrial Adaptation: Probat is also transitioning its own roasting site to hydrogen power, albeit with additional infrastructure requirements. This includes establishing a supply network through tanks or pipelines, which may necessitate building hydrogen infrastructure in areas where it’s not readily available.
6. Retrofitting for Existing Roasters: Probat is actively developing retrofit packages to adapt existing shop roasters to hydrogen power. This initiative addresses the growing demand for sustainable roasting solutions and allows customers to upgrade their equipment accordingly.
7. Environmental Implications: The shift to hydrogen power aligns with the industry’s efforts to decarbonize and reduce environmental impact. While green hydrogen is preferred, current production methods often rely on fossil fuels, highlighting the need for advancements in renewable energy technology.
8. Interim Solutions: In response to natural gas shortages and customer demand, Probat offers interim solutions such as LPG-compatible adaptations for roasters. These initiatives aim to bridge the gap towards more sustainable practices while long-term solutions are developed.
9. Promotion of Green Hydrogen: Probat advocates for the scalability of green hydrogen as a viable energy carrier for the coffee industry. Driving down the costs of electrolysis and increasing renewable energy generation capacity are essential steps towards widespread adoption.
10. Future Developments: Probat plans to expand its hydrogen-powered roaster lineup, with upcoming releases including the P12 shop roaster and the Px 120 drum roaster. These advancements underscore the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in coffee processing.