In the lautering process, the wort (the liquid containing the sugar extracted during mashing) is separated from the grains. This is done either in a lauter tun outfitted with a false bottom or in a mash filter. Most separation processes have two stages: first wort run-off, during which the extract is separated in an undiluted state from the spent grains, and sparging, in which extract which remains with the grains is rinsed off with hot water. The lauter tun false bottom is designed to hold back the large bits of grist and hulls. The bed of grist that settles on it is the actual filter. Lauter tuns have provisions for rotating rakes to cut into the bed of grist to maintain good flow. When the process is complete, a plow can be dropped to drive the spent grain out of the vessel.
• Sprinkman offers an American-made, laser milled screen option for the false bottom. This will provide a better yield and allow for easier clean-up.
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