Piercer

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Tools Used in the Sampling Process

Specific tools are needed to analyze the samples taken during the sampling process. Select one of the tools below to learn more about it, including when and where it is used during the Sampling Process.



The Piercer ​​

The piercer is a can and bottle piercing tool that is connected to a meter that measures dissolved oxygen and dissolved carbon dioxide within already sealed cans and bottles. After canning and bottling, too much dissolved oxygen in a beer can result in staling, muting of flavor, and reduced shelf life of the product. In addition, the dissolved carbon dioxide in a canned or bottled beer is a measure of that product’s carbonation. The dissolved oxygen and carbon dioxide content of a solution within a certain contained volume affect the pressure of the solution. When the vessel is pierced, that pressure affects the way the solution expands into an increased volume, and is read by the meter. This quality control reading allows for consistency between brewed batches.


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