New GEA separator skid for the beverage industry: Higher yield, lower consumption

• GEA GSI 260 skid with direct drive, modular equipment and smart efficiency options 

• Greater efficiency thanks to larger clarification area

• Less water and energy use

• Shorter service times thanks to replaceable drive unit

At drinktec, GEA is introducing the GSI 260 skid, a new generation of separators for the beverage industry. On the outside, the Kinetic Edge Design signals a new era. Inside, the machine features a direct drive, resource-saving features, and modular adaptability. The goal: higher yields with lower consumption – and straightforward integration into existing production lines.

More clarification area, higher efficiency

The optimized bowl and disc geometry significantly increase the clarification area. This enables the GSI 260 skid to separate even the finest particles with greater efficiency – whether in green beer clarification, polishing before filtration, or wort clarification. For breweries, this means more product in the tank and fewer losses in the process.

Gentle, hygienic, low maintenance

The Twin Hydrohermetic replaces conventional seals with two water barriers and a CO₂ gap. This keeps oxygen intake below 5 ppb, protecting beer flavor and shelf life. At the same time, operators avoid costly seal servicing. The hygienic skid design facilitates cleaning and shortens commissioning time.

Direct drive with service advantage

The synchronous direct drive achieves a higher efficiency than flat-belt systems and runs more quietly in a compact design. The entire drive unit can be replaced as a module, reducing downtime. Overall service time is estimated to be around six hours shorter compared to other drive concepts, although the exact figure depends on installation and location.

Resource conservation as standard

Water and energy are major cost factors in beverage production. The GSI 260 addresses both: The GEA Centrifuge Water Saving Unit cuts freshwater use by up to 99.9 percent, while the EngyVac system reduces air resistance in the bowl and lowers drive energy. Even without additional modules, the machine reduces water consumption through intelligent sensor control.

Control and smart data

The GSI 260 skid is operated with GEA X-Control, the latest control platform for separators. In the future, it can be linked to the GEA InsightPartner Separation KPIs dashboard, which provides process and consumption data. This includes parameters such as energy use, turbidity, production volumes, CIP and emptying cycles, and potential for energy savings through idle times.

Modular for many applications

Thanks to its modular design, the GSI 260 skid adapts to a wide range of processes – from medium-sized and large breweries to wine, juice and tea producers, as well as manufacturers of plant-based beverages.

“With the GSI 260 skid, we are launching a new generation of centrifuges that ensures product quality, conserves resources and increases serviceability,” says Lukas Weber, Product Manager Beverage Separation at GEA. “Our modular efficiency solutions help customers optimize their processes individually and reduce operating costs in the long term.”

GEA at drinktec 2025: Booth 539, Hall B5