Course overview
n this course students will learn how process engineering applies to wineries. This course is to be delivered in two parts. Part 1 will provide an overview of the winemaking process followed by more detailed content focused on specific engineering applications. There will be a strong focus on active learning and industrial relevance with students participating in discussion, problem-solving and hands-on demonstration of winery technology at large scale. Part 2 will consist of with lectures and laboratory practicals focused on process engineering applications related to waste management and sustainability, as well as a two-day (overnight) field trip to the Barossa Valley for a tour of industrial-scale commercial winery waste treatment facilities.
Course learning outcomes
- Explain the engineering fundamentals which underpin the winemaking process
- Demonstrate an awareness of how engineering methodologies and safe work practices are applied to winery cellar operations such as fermentation, wine clarification, refrigeration and packaging, including understanding of how these processes can impact on product quality
- Employ process engineering and design principles to assess economic and technical improvement opportunities associated with winery operation
- Identify key winery waste production phases based on variation in liquid and solid waste streams and their organic and salt loading, and explain how this impacts on treatment performance
- Understand and communicate current industry best practice in winery waste treatment, sustainability and environmental management