BARREL CONVECTION TOASTING
89% Net Carbon Emissions Reduction, Compared to Traditional Toasting
Patented by TN Coopers
Toasting is the most critical and decisive step in creating wood with character. TN Coopers uses the convection method for toasting alternatives. However, as part R&D planning, TN developed exclusive and patented convection toasting technology for barrels as well.
"Convection" refers to the controlled application of a homogeneous convective flow of hot air for a specific period, generating numerous physicochemical changes in the wood compounds (cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin), their phenolic derivatives, and aromatic precursors.
The significant difference from direct fire toasting is that this process is controlled with exclusive software that accurately predicts the expected toasting results in terms of aromas and flavors. This opens a door for the wine industry, making it possible to achieve the replicability of each product. Additionally, a deeper toast penetration is achieved than with the traditional fire method. The software that controls and records the temperatures at which the air circulates in contact with the wood is a fundamental tool, allowing the establishment of recipes for each requirement and offering a more selective product for different wines and distillates.
In this process, the barrels are toasted in a sealed convection oven that uses LPG (Liquid Propane Gas) as its primary fuel source. LPG is a readily available fuel, easily transportable in cylinders, and energy-efficient. Its calorific value is 55,000 kJ/kg, while that of wood—primarily used as a heat source for barrel toasting—is between 17,000-22,000 kJ/kg. This means that LPG requires three times less energy than wood.
Moreover, using LPG, our processes do not release particulate matter (PM) or greenhouse gases (NOx and COx) and can significantly reduce carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions.
According to a report on LP gas work emissions, the Wood Association indicates 700.7 kg CO₂/GJ, while LPG emissions are 116.8 kg CO₂/GJ. In other words, switching from firewood to LPG, our process can reduce net carbon emissions by 89%.
