12/05/2024
The main purpose of using a beer draft system is to deliver fresh, cold beer efficiently and consistently from the keg to the glass, while maintaining optimal taste, carbonation, and quality.
Each of these components plays a key role in ensuring that the beer is dispensed at the right temperature, pressure, and quality, delivering a fresh, well-carbonated pour every time.
Keg: The primary container for beer in a draught system. Contain the beer that is dispensed through the system. They come in various sizes, such as half-barrels (15.5 gallons) or smaller "slim" 1/6 barrels (5.17 gallon).
Coupler: This is the device that connects the keg to the draught system. There are different types of couplers depending on the keg's valve system.
Beer Line: The flexible tubing that carries beer from the keg to the faucet. Beer lines are typically made from food-grade materials and come in different lengths, depending on the system setup.
Faucet: The tap at the end of the beer line that dispenses beer into your glass.
Regulator: This device controls the pressure of the gas (usually CO2 or nitrogen) being pushed into the keg. Proper regulation ensures consistent beer flow and carbonation levels, preventing over- or under-carbonation.
CO2 Tank: This is the source of pressurized gas used to push the beer from the keg to the faucet. CO2 tanks are commonly used for most beers, but other gases like nitrogen may be used for specific styles like stouts, coffee or cocktails.
Walk in Fridge or Glycol Chiller: A cooling system to maintain the beer at the right temperature from the keg to the faucet. This is especially important for longer beer lines. Glycol chillers circulate a coolant to prevent the beer from warming as it travels.
Draft Tower: The vertical structure that houses the faucets and connects to the beer lines. It provides a convenient dispensing point for the bartenders.
