There are three main types of beer tap systems: direct draw, long draw glycol cooled, and long draw air cooled. Each system has its own unique components and methods for delivering and cooling draft beer from the keg to the tap. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to work with and experience all three systems firsthand. Let's explore each system in detail.
1. Direct Draw System:
– This is the most common and simplest type of beer tap system.
– The kegs are stored directly below the tap, usually in a refrigerated cabinet or walk-in cooler.
– A short beer line connects the keg to the tap, ensuring a shorter distance for the beer to travel.
– This system is ideal for establishments with a small number of taps or limited space.
– It requires less equipment and is easier to install and maintain.
– However, temperature control can be more challenging, as the kegs are not as efficiently cooled as in other systems.
2. Long Draw Glycol Cooled System:
– This system is used when the kegs are located far away from the taps, such as in a basement or remote storage area.
– It utilizes a trunk line, which is a long insulated tube that runs from the kegs to the taps.
– The beer is cooled by running glycol, a food-grade antifreeze, through the trunk line.
– The glycol is chilled by a glycol chiller, which is a separate refrigeration unit.
– This system allows for greater flexibility in tap placement and can accommodate a larger number of taps.
– It ensures that the beer remains at the ideal temperature throughout the entire system, even over long distances.
– However, it requires more complex installation and maintenance, as well as additional equipment such as the glycol chiller.
3. Long Draw Air Cooled System:
– This system is similar to the long draw glycol cooled system but uses forced air instead of glycol to cool the beer.
– It is typically used when the trunk line can be kept relatively short and the kegs are not too far from the taps.
– The beer is cooled by a fan-forced air system that circulates chilled air through the trunk line.
– This system eliminates the need for a glycol chiller, making it more cost-effective and easier to install.
– However, it is less efficient than the glycol cooled system and may not be suitable for long distances or large numbers of taps.
In my experience, the choice of beer tap system depends on various factors such as the size of the establishment, the number of taps required, the available space, and the desired temperature control. Each system has its advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to consider these factors when selecting the most appropriate system for a particular setting.
Understanding the different beer tap systems is crucial for ensuring the delivery of high-quality draft beer to customers. Whether it's the simplicity of a direct draw system, the efficiency of glycol cooling, or the cost-effectiveness of air cooling, each system has its place in the world of draft beer dispensing.