Maths for Brewers and Distillers Short Course

Using maths is vital in brewing and distilling. From production through to packaging, analysis and quality assurance, the calculations we do allow us to make consistent products efficiently. Applying our mathematical knowledge means we can work more efficiently, solve production problems systematically, and make informed decisions about any product and process changes we make. Good mathematical skills also help reduce waste, improve yields, and ensure products consistently meet quality and regulatory requirements.

Many people say they are not good at maths, but this is usually just due to a lack of experience and practice. Brewers and distillers who say this might be surprised at how much maths they already use routinely in their work. For example, adjusting the amounts of raw materials, measuring specific gravity, calculating alcohol strength and carrying out dilutions all involve performing calculations. Once you recognise these everyday applications, mathematics becomes far less intimidating and much more practical.

This course starts with the fundamentals of mathematics and builds from there in stages. Ratios, fractions, decimals and percentages follow, before we move on to the different types of averages. Worked examples of calculations used in breweries and distilleries come next. Logarithms, roots and geometry are covered before we get to equations. Over the course of several lessons, how to use, rearrange and combine equations is explained in detail. The different ways data is presented in graphs are shown, which leads on to their use in statistics and statistical process control. The mole also gets a look in, though those of you thinking of small burrowing mammals will be surprised to find we’re talking about the Avogadro number!

Designed specifically for brewers and distillers, this course gives in depth training in maths to a high level, backed up by step by step demonstrations of the calculations we use in our jobs. It is a short course, but it is comprehensive in scope and focuses on practical applications. Completing the course will give you the knowledge, understanding and confidence needed to use maths competently in your work and to apply it effectively throughout the brewing and distilling process.