You might have wondered how beer kegs work and what are the different parts that make up a keg. In this article, we will explore one of the most important components of a keg: the spear.
What is a keg spear?
A keg spear is a long metal tube that reaches almost to the bottom of the keg. Despite its warlike name, the spear is basically a big metal straw through which beer can travel up from the bottom of the keg and out through the tap at the top .
The spear has a self-closing valve that is opened by the coupling fitting which is attached when the keg is tapped. The coupling fitting also connects to a gas line that provides pressure to push the beer out of the keg .
There are different types of spears and couplers depending on the type and size of the keg. Some of the most common ones are:
- A-type
- D-type
- G-type
- S-type
- U-type
Why is a keg spear important?
A keg spear is essential for dispensing beer from a keg. Without it, there would be no way to get the beer out of the sealed container. A good quality spear ensures that the beer flows smoothly and evenly, without leaks or blockages.
A keg spear also affects the quality and freshness of the beer.
A well-designed spear allows almost all the contents of the keg to be served out, minimizing waste and oxidation . A sanitary spear prevents contamination and infection of the beer by bacteria or fungi.
How to maintain a keg spear?
A keg spear requires regular maintenance to keep it in good condition and extend its lifespan. Some of the best practices for maintaining a keg spear are:
- Cleaning and sanitizing the spear after each use with appropriate chemicals and equipment
- Inspecting the spear for any signs of damage or wear and tear, such as cracks, dents, corrosion, or broken seals
- Replacing the spear if it is damaged or worn out, or if it has reached its recommended service life (usually 7-8 years)
- Using color-coding of the spears for manual or camera-enabled mechanical separation of kegs that are due for routine, scheduled maintenance
A keg spear is a vital part of a beer keg that allows beer to be dispensed from the bottom of the keg to the tap at the top.
A keg spear has a self-closing valve that is opened by a coupler that also connects to a gas line. There are different types of spears and couplers for different types of kegs. A keg spear affects the quality and freshness of the beer, and requires regular cleaning, inspection, and replacement.
We hope you enjoyed this article on beer keg spears. If you want to learn more about beer dispensing systems, check out our website for more information and products.
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Christine Wong