The distinctive brewing equipment that breweries use to produce beer can frequently give the impression that you are entering the alchemist’s studio. Kegs are one of these essential pieces of gear. These aren’t just any old containers; these are vessels that contain the precious liquid.
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Kegs come in a variety of designs, each intended to serve a specific purpose in the beer industry, but they all maintain the uniformity and caliber of the beer. You can choose wisely for your business by being aware of the top five keg types used by brewers. Kegs come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and uses.
SANKEY KEGS
Sankey, or Sanke, kegs are by far the most common type of beer available today. Most couplers can be used with them thanks to their universal design. Sankey kegs are a favorite among brewers because of its “S” shank, which makes them easy to tap. They often come in a variety of sizes, including quarter, half, and sixth barrels.
KEGS CORNELIUS
Originally designed to contain soda, Cornelius kegs, sometimes known as “Corny” kegs, have found their way into the craft brewing industry. They use stainless steel, which is durable and resistant to corrosion. These kegs come in two main sizes: the 2.5-gallon and the 5-gallon. One of the main benefits of the Cornelius keg is its detachable lid, which allows filling and cleaning it easier.
KEGS HOFF-STEVENS
The two distinct holes on Hoff-Stevens kegs are used for the application of gas pressure and the distribution of beer, respectively. This configuration is different from the single-valve design found in modern kegs. Though their use is dwindling, Hoff-Stevens kegs are still commonly employed by traditional brewers who appreciate their unique mechanics and historical charm.
EUROPEAN KEGS
European kegs are used extensively and for many different reasons in European brewers. Although they share certain functional and design similarities with the well-known Sankey kegs, their unique couplers, called “A” and “G,” mark them apart. On A-type kegs, the coupler is engaged by rotating a horizontal lever in a clockwise manner. G-type kegs have a triangular-shaped handle that is comfortable to grip and use.
FERKIN KEGS
Firkins’ distinctive cylindrical shape and robust metal or wood construction make them popular. Firkin kegs are used by craft brewers that produce small batches of beer since they are smaller than most commercial kegs, often holding about 9 gallons. A Firkin’s beer has a unique flavor character derived from the use of a secondary fermentation procedure.
Regardless of the type of keg you use for your brewery, you need to have and maintain trustworthy keg washers if you want to maintain the quality of your beer while it is being kept. Each type of keg, whether it’s a large Sankey or a Firkin, has unique advantages for brewers. Knowing the common keg types used by brewers can help you select the ideal one for your business, ensuring the greatest possible beer quality and effortless handling.