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Kegging Beer
Kegging Systems
There are two types of keg systems for beer – open and closed. Kegs in an open-keg system have a bunghole on the side by which the interior can be readily accessed without extracting the valve body or spear. The bunghole is closed by a wooded or plastic bung plug. Hoff-Stevens kegs and the almost-extinct Golden Gate kegs are two examples of open-keg systems. Unlike open-system kegs, closed-keg systems can be accessed only through the valve housing. The newer, more common single-valve keg (SVK) or "Sankey" keg is an example of a closed-system keg.
Open-Keg Systems
The Hoff-Stevens keg, which is sometimes referred to as a "two-probe" keg, has a centered valve protruding from the top in addition to the bunghole on the side. These kegs are frequently stored and shipped on their side because of their barrel shape, though they must be upright when served.
Closed- Keg Systems
Unlike open-keg systems, the SVK keg system contains a concentric valve housing in the center, which allows for easy cleaning and filling by automated systems. This valve arrangement consists of a single stainless steel rod housing that is permanently installed into the top center of the keg and sealed with a spring-loaded check valve. Because of this unique concept, the SVK requires special machinery and equipment for washing, sterilizing, filling, and dispensing in order to reap the full benefit of this aseptic package. Cleaning is accomplished by injecting cleaning agents, rinses, and sanitizers while the keg is inverted with the valve down. The keg can be filled either while inverted or upright.
Click on the following topics for more information on kegging beer.