Everything You Need to Know About Hardtank

Do you have questions about Hardtank products? Below, you will find answers to our most frequently asked questions.

Hardtank is based in Opole, Poland, with a global network of distributors and partners supporting clients worldwide.

Payments are made via bank transfer based on a proforma invoice.

We welcome new distributor partnerships in selected regions. Typical conditions include market experience, an existing client network in the HoReCa or beverage industry, and the ability to provide local service support. In return, we provide training, marketing support, and preferential pricing. Contact us for a distributor application.

It depends on your business model, scale, and goals:

 

Hardtank equipment is the right choice if you want to produce beverages in-house, control recipes daily, and offer fresh cold brew or nitro drinks on tap. It works best for cafés, hotels, restaurants, offices, and chains that want full operational control and flexibility.

 

RTD private label beverages are ideal if you want a ready-to-sell product without managing brewing or equipment. They’re perfect for retail, e-commerce, distributors, and brands looking to expand their portfolio with ready-to-drink cans under their own label.

 

In many cases, businesses use both: equipment for on-site serving (e.g. nitro coffee on tap) and RTD cans for retail sales or take-away. Our team can help evaluate your concept and recommend the best fit.

Pricing depends on the product type (equipment or RTD beverages), order size, and configuration. Equipment quotes are tailored to the selected model and accessories. For beverages, pricing is volume-based, with lower unit costs at higher order quantities. Contact our sales team or local distributor for a detailed quote.

Lead times vary by product:

Equipment: Typically 6-8 weeks, depending on stock availability and configuration.

RTD Beverages: Shop-to-go recipes are ready in 4-6 weeks; custom formula development takes 2–3 months and then 4-6 weeks for production.

Standard shipping terms are EXW (Ex Works). We can also work with DAP. Shipping costs depend on destination, transport mode, and order size. Small orders often ship by air, while larger volumes are best shipped by sea container.

All import duties, customs clearance, and regulatory compliance are the responsibility of the importer. For non-alcoholic beverages, requirements are typically straightforward, but it is important to check local regulations in advance.

Simply contact our sales team or fill out the inquiry form on our website. Once we understand your needs, we will provide samples (if applicable), guide you through the ordering process, and coordinate logistics.

Yes. Whether for equipment or beverages, Hardtank provides ongoing customer service, technical support, and access to spare parts or formulation expertise. For equipment, warranty and service support are available via our distributor network.

Hardtank machines use patented accelerated cold extraction, delivering consistent cold brew in just 45-60 minutes versus up to 24 hours with traditional steeping. This ensures faster production, higher efficiency, and fresher beverages.

Both machines can brew cold brew coffee, tea, cascara, cocktails, and even spirit infusions up to 60% ABV, making them versatile beyond coffee applications.

No. Both models use stainless-steel extraction baskets and built-in filtration, eliminating single-use filters and reducing operating costs.

Yes. Both Baby Hardtank and Hardtank 20 are designed for professional operations such as cafés, bars, hotels, offices, restaurants, festivals, and production facilities.

Yes. Detailed specifications – including dimensions, power consumption, water and drain connections, and installation requirements – are available in the technical sheets for each model (Baby Hardtank, Hardtank 20, and Hardtap).

Installation is a quick and plug-and-play process. In most cases, Hardtank machines only require a standard power supply, a water connection, and a drain. Local distributors or our service partners can provide on-site assistance if needed.

A water connection is recommended but not always required. The Baby Hardtank can operate in “No Water” mode using manual filling or an external pump, which is useful for events or mobile setups. The Hardtank 20 requires a direct water connection for optimal performance.

Both models require a power supply of 110–230V, 50–60Hz. For full operation, a water inlet (3/8″), drain outlet (1/2″), and sufficient water flow are recommended.

Yes. Both include automated wash and sanitation cycles, ensuring hygienic operation with minimal effort. Recommended cleaning agents include Neomoscan Sepa, Dorex Ultra, or Urnex Rinza.

Yes. By eliminating disposable filters, reducing brewing time, and minimising energy and water use, Hardtank machines help operators lower their environmental footprint while maintaining high output.

Yes, but differently:

Hardtank 20 can be equipped with one or two nitro taps for direct dispensing.

Baby Hardtank requires pairing with the Hardtap Nitro Dispenser for nitro service.

Every Hardtank machine comes with warranty coverage. The warranty terms vary by market, but typically include parts and service support. Extended warranty and service packages are available via local distributors.

 

Customers receive ongoing support, including troubleshooting, maintenance guidance, and access to service centres through our distributor network. Our team can also provide remote assistance if required.

Spare parts and consumables are available directly from Hardtank or through our global distributor network. We recommend only sourcing official parts to ensure performance and warranty validity.

Yes. Training is available through video tutorials, digital manuals, and distributor support. Our YouTube channel also includes operation and cleaning guides.

In selected regions, rental options are available. Contact the Hardtank sales team to confirm availability in your market.

Shipping costs depend on destination and order size. Machines are packed securely for international transport, with installation assistance available through distributors.

Standard lead times are 4-6 weeks, depending on production schedule and shipping method. Local stock may be available through distributors for faster delivery.

Yes. Hardtank machines are designed for a single-phase power supply of 110-250V, 50-60Hz, and can be adapted to your country’s voltage and frequency standards when ordered.

Both Baby Hardtank and Hardtank 20 can infuse spirits up to 60% ABV. We recommend avoiding thick or sugary liquids, as these may damage the system.

Yes. While the Hardtank 20 is our standard high-capacity brewer, we also manufacture custom-sized Hardtank systems on special request. For example, our own RTD canning facility operates with a large-scale custom Hardtank unit.

We operate with a growing network of global distributors. Please check our website’s interactive map or contact us directly to confirm availability in your region.

The Baby Hardtank is a compact cold brew machine with a footprint of only 30×30 cm, designed for cafĂ©s, bars, restaurants, mobile coffee trucks, offices, and event organisers who need high-quality cold brew in a small space.

Yes, customisation is possible for Baby Hardtank units. A different colour finish can be ordered for an additional fee.

Each batch yields 4-5 litres of cold brew in less than 45 minutes. With continuous operation, it can produce up to 60 litres per day, equal to roughly 300 servings of 200 ml each.

Traditional cold brew requires 12-24 hours of steeping. The Baby Hardtank delivers the same product in under an hour thanks to its patented accelerated cold extraction.

Alongside cold brew coffee, you can prepare tea, cascara, botanical infusions, cocktails, and even spirit infusions with alcohol up to 60% ABV.

No. The Baby Hardtank uses a stainless-steel extraction basket and advanced filtration. This means lower operational costs and no waste from paper filters.

Yes. While a water inlet is recommended, the Baby Hardtank can also operate in “No Water” mode, using an external pump or manual filling, which is ideal for festivals, mobile bars, and events.

It needs a power supply of 110–230V, 50–60Hz, and a water inlet (3/8″) and drain outlet (1/2″) are recommended. The machine needs a water flow of at least 2.2 litres per minute for full operation.

Very easy. The Baby Hardtank includes automated washing and sanitation programs. For optimal results, use recommended cleaning agents such as Neomoscan Sepa, Dorex Ultra, or Urnex Rinza.

No, it does not have a built-in nitro tap. For nitro cold brew, pair it with the Hardtap Nitro Dispenser.

The Baby Hardtank is built with professional-grade components for daily commercial use. With proper cleaning and maintenance, it is reliable even under high-frequency operation.

The Baby Hardtank is compact, portable, and flexible for smaller-scale production (up to 60 litres per day). The Hardtank 20, on the other hand, is designed for large-scale production (up to 250 litres per day).

The Hardtank 20 is a professional cold brew machine designed for large-scale beverage production. It is ideal for cafés, coffee chains, hotels, restaurants, and beverage companies that require consistent, high-volume cold brew output.

Each batch yields 18-20 litres of cold brew in just 45-60 minutes. With continuous brewing, the machine can produce up to 250 litres per day.

Traditional cold brew takes 12-24 hours to steep. The Hardtank 20 produces the same high-quality result in under one hour, using patented accelerated cold extraction technology.

Beyond cold brew coffee, the Hardtank 20 can brew tea, cascara, botanical infusions, cocktails, and spirit infusions with alcohol up to 60% ABV.

No. The Hardtank 20 uses a stainless-steel extraction basket and integrated filtration system, eliminating the need for paper filters. This reduces costs and waste.

Yes. It can be equipped with one or two nitro taps for direct dispensing. If desired, it can also connect to an external nitrogen tank for additional flexibility.

The Hardtank 20 requires a single-phase power supply (110–250V, 50–60Hz), a filtered water inlet (3/8″), and a drain outlet (1/2″). A stable water flow of at least 2.2 litres per minute is recommended.

Yes. Unlike the Baby Hardtank, the Hardtank 20 is designed to operate with a permanent water connection for continuous high-volume production.

The Hardtank 20 features fully automated cleaning and sanitation cycles. Recommended cleaning products include Neomoscan Sepa, Dorex Ultra, or Urnex Rinza. Minimal operator effort is required, making it efficient and hygienic for daily use.

Built from industrial-grade components, the Hardtank 20 is designed for continuous daily use in professional environments. With proper cleaning and routine maintenance, it delivers years of reliable performance.

Yes. By dramatically reducing brewing time, eliminating disposable filters, and ensuring consistent results, the Hardtank 20 can fully replace traditional cold brew systems for commercial production.

The Hardtank 20 is designed for high-volume operations (up to 250 litres per day), while the Baby Hardtank is compact and portable, suited for smaller venues and mobile setups (up to 60 litres per day).

The Hardtap is a professional dispenser that serves both still and nitro-infused beverages. It is designed for cafés, bars, restaurants, offices, mobile setups, and events where customers expect premium cold drinks with or without nitrogen.

The Hardtap can serve nitro and still cold brew coffee, iced tea, cascara infusions, lemonades, mocktails, premixed cocktails, and even water or wine.

No. The Hardtap uses atmospheric nitrogen infusion technology, which eliminates the need for gas tanks or cartridges. This reduces operating costs and simplifies logistics.

Yes. The Hardtap is fully compatible with Hardtank brewers (Baby Hardtank and Hardtank 20), but it can also integrate with other cold brew or beverage systems.

The system can dispense up to 50 litres of chilled beverages per hour, maintaining a serving temperature of 3-10°C.

Setup takes less than 15 minutes, making it ideal for high-demand environments and mobile event operations.

Yes. The dispenser features a touchscreen with up to four programmable portion sizes per beverage. This ensures consistent servings and reduces liquid waste.

Absolutely. Its compact design, fast setup, and atmospheric nitrogen infusion make it perfect for festivals, outdoor catering, coffee trucks, and pop-up bars.

By eliminating nitrogen tanks and enabling precise portion control, the Hardtap minimises waste, lowers operating costs, and maximises beverage margins.

Yes. The dispenser allows operators to choose between nitro-infused and still serving modes for maximum flexibility.

Aluminium cans are lightweight, infinitely recyclable, and excel at preserving freshness. They are more cost-effective for transport and have a lower carbon footprint than glass or PET bottles.

No. We focus exclusively on slim aluminium cans, which are lightweight, recyclable, and optimised for freshness and logistics.

Our facility can produce up to 100,000 cans per month.

Yes. Labels can be fully customised to your language and regulatory requirements. We provide a template to ensure compliance with layout rules.

Standard delivery is EXW (Ex Works), but DAP is also an option. Depending on volume and destination, we can arrange sea freight, air freight, or road transport.

Yes. All recipes undergo microbiological testing, including total viable count (CFU), Salmonella, Listeria, mould, and yeast. Shelf-life studies are also included in the development process.

Yes. You can design your own using our manual and label draft, or we can provide professional label design services at €250 per SKU.

We directly trade with trusted producers in Brazil, Colombia, Guatemala, and other origins, ensuring high-quality beans with transparent sourcing.

Yes. We regularly work with oat milk in our recipes and can also use other plant-based options (such as almond or soy), depending on formulation.

No. We work exclusively with plant-based milks (such as oat, almond, or soy). Animal-derived milk is not part of our production due to shelf-life and stability concerns.

Shop-to-Go is Hardtank’s portfolio of ready-made cold brew recipes that can be quickly branded and launched under your own label. It is the fastest and most cost-efficient way to enter the RTD beverage market.

We offer nine proven recipes, including black cold brew coffee, oat-based cold brew coffees, iced teas, and functional recipes enriched with natural flavours or botanicals.

Yes. Samples of our Shop-to-Go recipes are available upon request. Shipping costs are typically covered by the client.

The MOQ is one pallet (approximately 3,000 cans per SKU).

Beverages are packed in slim aluminium cans:

  • 200 ml (available in silver or black)
  • 250 ml (available in silver)

Each SKU can be packed in cartons of 12 or 40 cans.

The shelf life is 12 months for black coffee and tea-based beverages, and eight months for oat-based “milky” drinks.

Yes. You will receive a template to design your own can label. Custom outer carton design is also available. We can also provide professional graphic design services for an additional fee.

Shop-to-Go products can be ready for shipment in 4-6 weeks, depending on production schedule and logistics.

Custom formula is a bespoke development service where we co-create a unique recipe with you. From sourcing your preferred coffee beans or ingredients to multiple sampling rounds and final production, your beverage is entirely tailored to your brand.

We can work with virtually any flavour profile. From coffee and tea to fruit infusions, botanicals, functional blends, or creative flavour combinations, there are no major limitations.

Yes. During custom formula development, you can supply your own roasted coffee. We guide you on roast levels and quantities needed for testing and production.

Yes. We have experience working with a wide range of functional and natural ingredients, including:

  • MCT oil, vitamins, and electrolytes
  • L-Theanine and nootropics
  • Adaptogens (ashwagandha, reishi, and rhodiola)
  • Mushrooms such as lion’s mane
  • Botanicals and herbs (hibiscus, chamomile, ginseng, spices)
  • Teas, cascara, dried fruit, and natural juices

All beverages can also be carbonated or nitrogen-infused, depending on your concept.

We do not produce protein-based beverages, and matcha can only be used in syrup form (not powder). For other niche or functional ingredients, we encourage you to contact us directly. We already work with a wide range of botanicals, adaptogens, and natural extracts, and can often accommodate new ingredients.

No. We focus exclusively on non-alcoholic beverages, such as cold brew coffee, teas, cascara, functional blends, and plant-based lattes.

The MOQ is two pallets per SKU (approximately 6,000 cans).

The typical process takes 2-3 months and includes:

  • Ingredient sourcing and initial recipe design
  • Up to three sample production rounds
  • Tasting and feedback sessions with the client
  • Final recipe confirmation and shelf-life validation
  • Production and canning

Standard production lead time is 4-6 weeks after final recipe confirmation.

You do. Once the recipe is finalised, you retain ownership of the formulation for future use.

Yes. You can run multiple developments at the same time, each subject to a separate formulation fee.

€3000 per recipe. However, we refund €500 per pallet from your first five orders until the fee is fully reimbursed.

We have experience with adaptogens, vitamins, electrolytes, botanicals, fruit extracts, cascara, natural flavourings, and alternative bases (e.g., oat milk).

Typically 12 months for black coffee/tea and eight months for oat-based drinks. The final shelf life is confirmed through microbiological and stability testing during development.

We welcome all inquiries - just reach out!

Simply select the topic you want to discuss, and we’ll make sure your inquiry reaches the right expert.

You’ll get a response from our team within 48 hours (excluding weekends), always from a @hardbeans.com email address. Your inquiry will be handled by a specialist who understands your needs and can guide you every step of the way.

Who will respond to you?

Kinga Markiewicz

Private Label & RTD Development

Vidin Andonov

Hardtank Equipment & Distributor Opportunities

Maciej Duszak

Distributor Opportunities

HARD BEANS Sp. z o.o.

ul. Armii Krajowej 35, 45-071 Opole, Poland 🇵🇱