Draught keg dispense apparatus comprises the systems and components utilised in the service of draught beer brewed in kegs. Draught systems that are adequately outfitted enable establishments such as pubs, bars, and restaurants to serve high-quality, fresh draught beer while ensuring the correction of carbonation, temperature, and pressure.
The fundamental element of every draught system is the container. Kegs for draught beer are commonly constructed of stainless steel and hold between 5 and 15.5 gallons of liquid. Beer is carbonated within the container through the application of pressure using carbon dioxide gas (CO2). In the United States, the 1⁄2 barrel (15.5 gallons) and the 1⁄4 barrel or pony keg (7.75 gallons) are popular keg sizes. Kegs may be served horizontally or vertically. With horizontal kegs, a cooler can accommodate more brews.
A coupler is affixed to the keg’s pinnacle in order to facilitate the pouring and serving of beer. Couplers comprise an air line and a beverage line, both of which are valves that enter the container. In order to expel beer, pressurised CO2 is injected into the container via the air line. At the bar, the beverage line dispenses beer via a faucet handle. Couplers are custom-made to correspond with the size and type of container. Pin lock couplers are designed to accommodate full size 1⁄2 and 1⁄4 barrels, whereas ball lock couplers are more prevalent for smaller casks.
In draught systems, adequate refrigeration is vital. Kegs must be maintained at a low temperature to maintain carbonation, prevent foaming, and serve chilly pints. Kegs are stored in refrigerated keg refrigerators between 36 and 42 degrees Fahrenheit. Glycol-cooled and air-cooled systems are the most prevalent. For effective refrigeration, glycol employs a mixture of antifreeze and water that is circulated through coils. Within the keg storage area, condensation and leaks are captured by a drip receptacle. Additionally, nearby CO2 tanks are maintained to maintain pressure.
In addition to chilling and tapping, the correct gas pressure is necessary for serving draught beer. Overcarbonation results from excessive pressure, whereas insufficient pressure can produce foamy, insipid beer. Nitro and CO2 are blended in a beer gas blender to produce stouts and nitro beers. Regulators regulate and modify the pressure within a keg. As well as ambient temperature and beer style, the length of draw lines, and other variables, the optimal serving pressure varies.
Additionally, the keg-to-tap pipelines for beer influence the temperature at which the beer is served. Strictness should be maintained in the length of these lines. Beer that has been inadequately cooled or drawn over extends beyond the optimal serving temperature. Common line materials include vinyl and stainless steel beverage conduit, which are resistant to bacterial growth, temperature fluctuations, and wear.
At the point of dispense, a tap and shank are installed in order to pour and exhibit beer. A tap consists of a nozzle and a valve control mechanism. Standard rear-sealing taps, NxT dispense taps, and Euro or forward-sealing taps are all prevalent varieties of draught taps. In order to connect the faucet, a shank is affixed to the bar. Consisting of nut-and-tail assemblies, the shank enables effortless tap removal for washing purposes.
Drip trays ultimately collect spills beneath the faucet. Frequent emptying of drip containers is required to preserve sanitation. Excess beer from drip trays is directed to a refuse container via drain lines. Staff are notified by an automatic drain pan sensor when the drip receptacle must be drained to prevent overflow. Proper drainage and sanitation of drip trays inhibit the growth of bacteria and mould, as well as slide hazards.
Draught keg dispensing apparatus comprises the following:
Kegs for storing and holding alcohol
Couplers for keg tapping
Ice chest containers for chilling kegs
Nitrogen gas and CO2 for pressurisation
Regulators for gas pressure control
Beverage lines for beer transportation
Shank and taps utilised for dispensing
Drip receptacles for overflow and spill collection
By integrating these elements properly, taverns and restaurants can increase their draught sales and profits. An exceptional draught keg dispense system allows beer to be served at the ideal temperature, carbonation, and pressure, thereby faithfully representing the intended flavour of the brewer. Consistent cleansing and maintenance of high-quality draught equipment ensures an extended lifespan of improved draught beer service. The fact that over 60% of many pubs’ beer sales are draught highlights the criticality of this apparatus to the financial success of any establishment.