Our iconic chimney

OUR ICONIC CHIMNEY

Many years ago, a newspaper wrote: “Haacht Brewery’s gigantic chimney can be spotted from afar. I’ve never seen any smoke come out of it, which must mean it hasn’t been used in years.” The journalist drew the wrong conclusion. Because our proud chimney most definitely has a use.

We’d like to take you back to 1898, when our brewery was founded. During this time, high factory chimneys symbolized successful companies. The more chimneys, the more prosperity for the factory’s neighbors. Because factories meant employment, or in other words a steady income.

Architectural piece of art

The same goes for Haacht Brewery. Over the years, however, several chimneys have disappeared. A chimney that’s not in use can quickly fall into disrepair and form a serious risk. One of them is still standing: an architectural piece of art that is made from brick and has been in continuous use since 1910. The chimney serves as the outlet for condensation steam. Steam that’s needed to heat up our brewing kettles.

Important landmark

In 2008, we began to produce steam using natural gas. The authentic chimney, however, had to stay intact. It has been an important landmark for Haacht and the surrounding area since Haacht Brewery was established. Furthermore, it symbolizes our impressive history.

White smoke

To ensure optimal removal of the gases, we used an 80 meter high crane to place a steel pipe in the chimney. During these activities it became clear that the chimney was in urgent need of restoration. Exposure to the elements over the years meant it no longer stood straight. To save the chimney, it was brought back to 35 meters in 2012, which is still a very respectable height.

So, no, you’ll never see any black smoke coming out of the chimney. At most, you might spot some condensation steam, particularly during the winter.