Calculations

Reference formulas for wort color calculations using MCU, SRM, and EBC methods.

This page documents the key formulas Brewfather uses in recipe calculations. You can choose which ABV, Final Gravity, and IBU formulas Brewfather uses in Settings > Formulas.

Wort Color

Brewfather estimates the color of your wort using a three-step calculation that converts grain color contributions into the SRM and EBC color scales displayed in the recipe designer.

Malt Color Units (MCU)

The first step calculates the raw color contribution of each grain addition. MCU represents the combined color intensity based on each grain's Lovibond rating, its weight, and the total batch volume. Brewfather sums the MCU for all fermentable additions in the recipe.

$$MCU = (Grain ColorLovibond * Grain Weight Lbs)/VolumeIn UsGallons$$

Morey Equation (MCU to SRM)

The raw MCU value is then converted to the SRM (Standard Reference Method) color scale using the Morey equation. This non-linear formula accounts for the fact that color perception does not scale linearly with grain additions -- doubling the grain does not double the perceived color. The Morey equation is widely regarded as the most accurate single-equation method for predicting beer color.

$$SRM Color = 1.49 * (MCU^0.69)$$

SRM to EBC Conversion

Finally, for users working in the EBC (European Brewery Convention) color scale, Brewfather converts the SRM value to EBC using the standard conversion factor. The EBC scale is commonly used in Europe and produces higher numeric values than SRM for the same color.

$$EBC = SRM * 1.97$$

Related docs

• Recipe Designer

• Brewing Knowledge: Fundamentals