Standard beer line usually consists of a 3/16″ ID (inner diameter) line with either a 3/8″ OD (outer diameter) or 1/4″ OD. The most common size line used in commercial installation is either 3/16″ ID x 5/16″ OD or 3/16″ ID x 1/4″ OD.
Larger volumes of beer and higher pressure systems may require a bigger ID and OD. The standard beer line is sized to provide maximum efficiency and the least amount of resistance to beer flow. The actual length of the standard beer line will vary but is typically about 24-30 feet in length for commercial installation.
The length of the beer line will depend on the length of the tap from the cooler or keg to the point of dispense. This length may need to be adjusted to optimize the dispense system performance. The longer length of the beer line can affect the beer temperature and the beer pressure, so it’s important to optimize the length for the particular system.
How are beer lines measured?
Beer lines are measured using distance and length to calculate how much draft beer is being dispensed. A length of beer line typically runs from the beer’s storage container, such as a keg, to the tap where the beer is dispensed.
The amount of beer dispensed is determined by a number of factors, including the line size and the amount of resistance present in the line itself. This resistance is known as the “line resistance” and it is controlled by the beer line diameter, the length of the line, and the beer’s temperature.
The typical beer line size is 3/16″ ID (in-diameter) vinyl tubing. As the temperature of the beer increases, the resistance of the beer line also increases, leading to less beer being dispensed. Likewise, if a line is too long, the beer’s pressure will decrease, resulting in less beer being dispensed.
Generally, the shorter the line, the greater the beer’s pressure and thus, the more beer that is dispensed.
For most bars, a 3/16″ ID beer line will produce maximum beer volume for draft beer, especially if it is kept within a reasonable length. To accurately measure the beer line size and the pressure drop through the line, it is recommended that a line tester or flow meter be used.
These tools will measure the amount of beer dispensed and locate potential issues with the line that can potentially lead to waste. By performing regular line cleaning, making sure the lines are at the correct length, and keeping the entirety of the system clean, a bar can ensure that their patrons receive the best quality beer.
What kind of tubing do you use for beer lines?
The type of tubing used for beer lines is typically made from a food-grade, erosion-resistant material, such as vinyl, silicone, or polyethylene. This is in contrast to regular plastic tubing, which quickly breaks down from the sugary nature of beer and can create unwanted deposits in the beer over time.
Food grade tubing is also important to ensure that no bacteria or microbes can seep into the beer and spoil it.
In addition to the food-safe material, it is also important to select a tubing with the right inner diameter. Many professionals agree that the best inner diameter for beer lines is 3/16 inch (4.76 mm).
This diameter is small enough to keep beer pressure and flow in check, yet large enough to permit regular cleaning and maintenance of the lines. It is also important to select tubing that is thick enough to provide strength and durability, while also being flexible so it can bend easily.
For example, 5/16 vinyl tubing is often used as it can bend without kinking or breaking.
It is also important to only use clear or certified food-safe lines with beer, as this prevents unwanted bacteria from collecting on the insides of the tubing. If you use colored beer lines, make sure to use only those specially designated for beer, as non-food-grade materials may contain toxins and chemicals that could ruin the beer.
In general, it’s best to always follow the beer line manufacturer’s instructions for safety and optimal performance.
How long should a beer line be?
The length of a beer line depends on a variety of factors including the style of beer being served, the distance between the draft system and the beer is being poured into, the size of beer lines, and the number of taps that the system is connected to.
Generally speaking, for most setups with 5-7 taps, a 10 foot long beer line is recommended. However, for larger systems with 8-20 taps, a 20-25 foot long beer line may be necessary to ensure that the beer is properly cooled and is not overly foamy.
Additionally, depending on the type of beer that is being served, you may need to increase the length of the beer line. For example, stouts, porters, and other beers dispensed at a higher pressure may require a longer beer line than lighter lagers or ales sold at a lower pressure.
What size kegs do bars use?
Bars typically use full-size kegs that are 59 gallons, or half-size kegs that are 30 gallons. The most common types of kegs used at bars include the six-and-a-half-gallon (quarter) keg, the 13.2-gallon (half) keg, the 20-gallon keg and the 50-litre (53.
2-gallon) keg. Smaller kegs are also used in bars, such as the 5-litre keg, the 10-litre (11-gallon) keg and the 20-litre (22-gallon) keg. The size of the keg used at a bar depends on the type of beverage being served, how often the beverage is served, and how busy the bar is.
What size keg fits in a kegerator?
The size of keg that fits in a kegerator depends on the specific model of the kegerator. Most home kegerators are designed to fit the typical US half-barrel keg, which is the size most commonly used for commercial beer.
These standard-size kegs measure 16” in diameter and 23.3” in height and are usually labeled as “full-size keg” or “half-barrel” kegs. Some kegerator models also feature the ability to hold a “quarter-barrel” or “slim-quarter-barrel” keg, which both measure 16″ in diameter and are only 15.
5″ in height. It is important to check the specific description and size specifications of the kegerator before purchasing, to make sure that it can accommodate the keg size you would like to use.
What is the diameter of a half keg?
A half keg, or a 1/2 barrel keg, typically has a diameter of approximately 16.1 inches and is 23.3 inches in height. Additionally, these kegs typically contain 15.5 gallons of beer. Keg sizes can vary slightly depending on the brewery and type of keg, so it pays to double-check the exact measurements before you purchase or rent a half keg.
Additionally, some establishments may offer what is called a pony keg or a quarter barrel, which would be made to hold a smaller quantity of beer.
How long is beer tubing?
Beer tubing is a method of transferring beer and other liquids between kegs and other containers, such as growlers. Depending on the size of the tubing used, the length of time it takes to beer tube can vary.
When using common 3/16-inch tubing, it typically takes a couple of minutes to fully transfer beer from one keg to another. For larger scale brewing and applications, 3/8” tubing may be used for faster transfer times of up to about 2 minutes.
For even larger beer-transfers, 5/16” or 7/16” tubing can be used to move large volumes of beer in about a minute.
How many beers is 3/16 line?
Unfortunately, this question cannot be answered due to multiple variables that would need to come into play. The size of a single beer would need to be known in order to calculate how many beers 3/16 of a line would be.
In addition, different drinking vessels may contain more or less beer than what a single beer is assumed to be, making it difficult to confirm an exact answer. Therefore, a generalized answer of approximately one and a half beers is likely the best estimate.
How much beer line do I need?
The amount of beer line you need depends on the size and layout of your establishment. If you have a small bar with one or two beer taps, you’ll probably need around 25 feet of vinyl beer line or 25 feet of 3/16 inch or 5/16 inch ID plastic tubing.
If you’re setting up a larger system with more than two beer taps, you should get a least 50 feet of beer line, but you may need up to 75 feet or more, depending on the distance your beer has to travel.
In general, the longer your line is, the more you’ll need to compensate with the diameter of your beer line; in other words, if you need to go a long distance, you’ll need a larger-diameter beer line than if you were only going a short distance.
In addition to the amount of beer line you need, you should also consider what type of beer line you need. Vinyl beer line is most common, but plastic tubing can be a better option if your beer lines need to be bent and shaped in certain ways.
As noted above, you should make sure the beer line you select is sized appropriately for distance and flow needs.
Finally, it’s important to invest in appropriately-sized and well-functioning keg couplers and faucets. The wrong type or size of couplers and faucets can lead to excessive foam and poor pour quality, which can cost you money and prevent customers from having a good experience.
In short, the amount of beer line you need depends on the size and layout of your establishment, but generally 25-75 feet is appropriate for most bar setups. Make sure to select the right type and size of beer line and proper-fitting couplers and faucets.
Does length of beer line matter?
Yes, the length of the beer line definitely matters. A properly maintained and sized line can positively affect the taste of the beer. A beer line that is too long will cause the beer to become overly carbonated, which will give it an over-pressurized taste.
Additionally, a longer beer line will cause increased pressure in the keg, which prevents the beer from properly pouring. On the other hand, if the line is too short, this will not allow for sufficient pressure to pour a good beer.
This can lead to a poor quality pour with poor flavor and little or no head. Ultimately, the optimal length of beer line will depend on the pressure your system is running. As a general rule, you want the beer line length to be no more than 15 – 30 feet if possible.
This will ensure the beer has the correct level of carbonation and will pour properly.
Can beer line be too long?
Yes, beer lines can be too long. Beer lines should not exceed 15 feet in length because of the pressure drop it causes. Beer lines should generally be no longer than 10 feet in order to ensure that the beer is kept at the optimal pressure and temperature for serving.
A longer beer line will create a greater pressure drop which can affect beer flow, the taste of the beer, and the amount of foam. In addition, bacteria can start to grow in the line if it is not cleaned regularly and can cause contamination of the beer.
Therefore, beer lines should be kept as short as possible to avoid any potential issues.
How far can you run beer lines?
The distance that beer lines can run depends on several factors, such as the type of beer being served, the pressure of the line, and what type of line is being used. Generally speaking, beer lines should be kept as short as possible to minimize foam and ensure a fresh flavor.
If the beer lines must be run long distances, stainless steel lines with proper insulation should be used to minimize problems associated with heat and foam. The pressure of the line should also be monitored closely; usually an operating pressure of 13-15 PSI is used to dispense a good pint.
If the line is run too close to its maximum pressure, the quality of the beer may be diminished. With adequate insulation and proper regulating, beer lines can be run up to 150 feet long with no significant decrease in quality.
How do you install a beer Shank?
Installing a beer shank is relatively easy, but there are a few key steps that you need to take to ensure the installation is done correctly.
First, you’ll need to gather the necessary materials for the job. This will include your beer shank, tools for drilling, a hole saw or hole cutter, washers, and beer line tubing. It’s a good idea to have a few extra washers on hand in case of any mistakes or extra pieces needed.
Next, determine where you’ll be mounting the beer shank. Most bar setups will have an area designated for mounting a shank. If that isn’t available, choose an appropriate space for the installation. Once you have the spot picked out, you’ll need to mark the spot using a marker or by using a template (which is typically provided by the beer shank manufacturer).
Using the holesaw or holecutting drill bit, drill the space where you have marked. Drill slowly and steadily so you get a clean cut through the wall.
After you have the hole cut out, insert the beer shank into the wall and carefully thread the screws into the mounting holes. Make sure that the beer shank is secure and that nothing is loose.
Now, you’re ready to connect the beer line tubing. First, attach one end of the tubing to the faucet and the other end to the shank. Once everything is connected, you’ll need to check for leaks. To do this, turn on both the faucet and the beer shank, and install a line clamp on both the faucet and the beer shank.
This will help prevent any line sealant from leaking.
The last step is to install the washers. These are usually supplied with the beer shank, and are used to create a tight seal and prevent any drips from the shank. Once the washers are in place, your beer shank is ready to be used.
How do you remove a beer from a shank faucet?
Removing a beer from a shank faucet requires a few steps in order to prevent any beer from being wasted.
First, place a shallow bowl or tray underneath the faucet to catch any extra beer that may be in the line. Take a beer line cleaner, or a mixture of water and cleaner, and flush the line. This will help to push out any residual beer from the line.
Next, use a pair of pliers or an adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts on either side of the shank. Place a towel over the top of the shank to help contain any beer that may come out. Once the nuts have been loosened, unscrew the shank by hand and carefully remove it from the wall.
Be sure to empty any beer remaining in the shank before replacing it with a new beer. When installing a new beer line onto the faucet, attach the barb to the shank with the appropriate-sized wrench, and then secure the nuts on either side.
Once in place, test the new line to make sure it is securely attached and that no beer is leaking out.
With these steps, you will be able to easily and safely remove a beer from a shank faucet.
