There are two main reasons why people use beer gas to dispense beer: nitrogenated beers and long beer lines.
1. Nitrogenated Beers:
Nitrogenated beers, like Guinness, have a unique and smooth texture that is achieved by using a mixture of nitrogen (N2) and carbon dioxide (CO2). These beers undergo a special process called nitrogenation, where the beer is infused with nitrogen gas during the brewing process. This results in smaller bubbles and a creamier mouthfeel compared to beers carbonated solely with CO2.
To dispense nitrogenated beers properly, a specific gas blend, known as beer gas, is required. Beer gas typically consists of 75% nitrogen and 25% carbon dioxide. The higher proportion of nitrogen in the gas mixture allows for a smoother pour and a thick, creamy head that is characteristic of nitrogenated beers.
2. Long Beer Lines:
The second reason for using beer gas is when the beer lines are long, such as in commercial establishments or large venues. When beer has to travel a long distance from the cellar to the tap, it can lose carbonation and become flat by the time it reaches the customer's glass. This is especially true when the beer is dispensed under low pressure to prevent foaming.
To overcome this issue, beer gas is used to provide additional pressure and maintain proper carbonation levels throughout the entire length of the beer lines. The higher pressure from the gas mixture allows the beer to travel smoothly and efficiently, ensuring that it arrives at the tap with the appropriate level of carbonation.
Using beer gas in such situations helps to deliver a consistent and high-quality pour to the customer, regardless of the distance the beer has to travel. It ensures that the beer retains its desired level of carbonation and taste, providing a satisfying drinking experience.
Beer gas is used primarily for two reasons: nitrogenated beers that require a specific gas blend to achieve a creamy texture and long beer lines where additional pressure is needed to maintain carbonation during the dispensing process. By using beer gas, both the unique characteristics of nitrogenated beers and the quality of beer dispensed through long lines can be preserved, resulting in an enjoyable drinking experience for beer enthusiasts.