What size is the thread on a tap handle?

Answered by Brandon Riddell

The thread size on a tap handle can vary, but the two most common sizes are 3/8″-16 and 5/16″-18. The larger size, 3/8″-16, is often used for displaying tap handles because it is the thread size of a standard American faucet. This size is commonly found in bars and breweries, where tap handles are used to showcase different beers on draft.

The smaller size, 5/16″-18, is also used for making tap handles. While less common than the larger size, it still serves its purpose in certain situations. Some tap handles may require this smaller thread size, and you can find ferrules that attach to both the 3/8″ and 5/16″ sizes.

I have personally encountered both thread sizes in the industry. When I was working at a brewery, we had a variety of tap handles with different thread sizes to accommodate different faucets. It was important to have the right size ferrules to secure the tap handles onto the faucets properly.

In terms of appearance, the thread size itself may not be noticeable on a tap handle, as it is typically hidden by the ferrule. However, it is crucial to have the correct thread size to ensure a secure attachment and prevent any wobbling or loosening of the tap handle.

To summarize, the two common thread sizes on tap handles are 3/8″-16 and 5/16″-18. The larger size is used for displaying tap handles on standard American beer faucets, while the smaller size is also used in certain situations. Having the correct thread size is essential for a secure attachment of the tap handle to the faucet.