Barrel tap

Types of Barrel Tap

A barrel tap, commonly known as a keg tap, is a device that connects to a keg and allows for the controlled flow of beer from the keg to the glass. There are different types of barrel taps, suitable for various kinds of kegs.

• Ball Lock Tap:

  Most home brewers use this tap. It has a simple design, making it easy to use. The tap has two balls that lock into a tap post. One tap post is for gas, and the other is for liquid. A home brewer can easily identify the posts because the gas post is short, and the liquid post is long. The tap also has a line for gas and another for liquid. After the beer is done brewing, the gas line will connect to the keg tap post. Then, carbon dioxide will be released into the keg to help push the beer out. The liquid line will also connect to the other post to dispense the beer.

• Pin Lock Taps:

  This type of tap is common among commercial brews. It is similar to the ball lock tap but has a different locking mechanism. Instead of balls, the pin lock tap uses pins to connect the post and keg. The taps also have gas and liquid lines for easy dispensing.

• Sankey Tap:

  This tap is the most popular and is found in most kegs. It has a unique design and comes in different varieties. The D type Sankey tap is common in U.S. breweries. It has a flat handle that makes it easy to use. The tap punctures the keg and creates a seal for the liquid to flow. Type S taps are mostly used in England and other European countries. The type U Sankey tap is popular in New Zealand and Australia. It is easy to identify because it has a thick body.

• Intertap Beer Tap:

  This tap is ideal for home use. It has a unique design that makes it easy to control the flow of beer. The tap is also versatile and can be used with different kegs. It also has a build quality that makes it last longer.

• Font Beer Taps:

  This tap is popular in bars and pubs. It has a stylish design that adds aesthetic value to any space. The font beer tap is also durable and built for heavy use.

Function and Feature of Barrel Tap

When considering the functions of a barrel tap, it is important to know that there are two types: manual and electric barrel taps.

• Manual Barrel Tap

  A manual barrel tap has a simple design. It consists of a metal body, a threaded end, a spout, and a lever or handle. The lever is used to control the flow of liquid. The features of a manual barrel tap include:

  - Easy to install and use. It requires no power or battery.

  - It is durable and can be used in emergencies.

  - It gives the user total control over the flow of liquid.

  - It is suitable for smaller barrels or containers.

• Electric Barrel Tap

  The design of an electric barrel tap is more complex. It consists of a metal body, a threaded end, a spout, an electric pump, and a power source. The features of an electric drum tap include:

  - It has faster and more efficient dispensing. The electric pump creates flow pressure.

  - It is equipped with an on/off switch to control the flow of liquid easily.

  - It is equipped with a flow rate control. This allows the user to adjust the flow rate according to their needs.

  - It has LED lights that make it easier to use in low-light conditions.

  - It is suitable for larger barrels or containers.

  - It is ideal for frequent or high-volume dispensing.

Barrel taps are designed to dispense liquids from a barrel or container. The taps have several features in common, including:

• Dispensing liquids from a barrel or container.
• Controlling the flow of liquid.
• Durable and corrosion-resistant materials.
• Easy installation and fitting.
• Threaded fitting for secure attachment to barrels or containers.

Barrel taps also have unique features. The electric tap has an integrated pump, power source, and flow control. The manual tap has a simple design and offers control over the flow rate.

Scenarios of barrel tap

The global market for barrel taps is on the rise. According to a report by Research and Markets, the market is expected to grow from $219.6 million in 2021 to $319.42 million by 2027. The rise in demand for beer and other beverages is one of the key factors influencing this growth. Various industries use barrel taps to dispense drinks. Some of the common tap types and their applications include the following.

• Beer taps: These taps are popular among pubs, clubs, and restaurants. They come in different styles and designs to meet the needs of various establishments. Some models, like the LED beer tap, are ideal for venues that want to create a vibrant atmosphere. The taps are also popular for home bars.
• Wine taps: Wine barrel taps are commonly found in wine bars and restaurants. They offer a more elegant and sophisticated look when compared to beer taps. Some models have LED lights to make the wine bottles more attractive. They are also a good addition to home wine cellars.
• Soda taps: Soda barrel taps are widely used in fast-food restaurants and cafes. They are designed to dispense carbonated soft drinks like soda. The taps have a different look from beer and wine taps. They are also ideal for home soda fountains.
• Display taps: These taps are used in beverage stores and trade shows to showcase the drinks. They have backlighting and other features that make the drinks more appealing to consumers. The taps are often customized to meet specific branding requirements.
• Mini taps: Mini taps are used in small-scale operations like backyard parties and picnics. They are designed to fit on smaller barrels or kegs. Mini taps are a popular choice for vendors who sell beer taps in trade shows and exhibitions.

How to choose barrel tap

When purchasing a barrel tap, consider the different aspects to provide the market with quality products. Below are some factors to consider when buying barrel taps for sale.

• Material

  There are different materials used in making barrel taps. Some have brass, stainless steel, and chrome plating. Brass is known for its durability and resistance to rusting. Stainless steel is popular because of its sleek design and finishes. Consider the type of material used in making the tap. The quality of the material will determine the lifespan and performance of the tap.

• Design and finish

  The design and finish of the barrel tap will influence the appearance of the barrel. Some popular designs include vintage, modern, and rustic finishes. Choose a design that will complement the aesthetic of the barrel.

• Functionality

  Consider the functionality of the tap. Some barrel taps are suitable for dispensing different types of liquids. Look for a tap that is easy to operate and control the flow of liquid. Also, consider the compatibility of the tap with the liquid that will be dispensed.

• Size and compatibility

  Barrel taps come in different sizes. Consider the size of the tap and ensure it is compatible with different sizes of barrels. Consider the type and size of the barrel that will be used for the tap.

• Easy Installation and Maintenance

  Look for a barrel tap that will be easy to install. Some barrel taps require professional installation, while others can be installed using DIY techniques. Also, consider the maintenance requirements of the tap and choose a tap that will be easy to maintain.

Barrel Tap Q&A

Q1: What are the common sizes for a barrel tap?

A1: Barrel taps are available in 3 common sizes. The sizes refer to the diameter of the thread. The 3 commonly sizes are 3/4 inches, 1 inch, and 2 inches. The size that will be suitable for a particular keg or barrel will depend on the keg or barrel.

Q2: What materials are barrel taps made of?

A2: Most barrel taps are made of brass or stainless steel. Brass is popular for its strength and resistance to rust. Stainless steel is also strong and gives a stylish look.

Q3: What is the difference between a beer tap and a barrel tap?

A3: A beer tap is used to serve beer from kegs in pubs and bars. It is similar to a draft beer dispenser. A barrel tap, on the other hand, is used to get beer from kegs or barrels at home. The two taps are suitable for different applications.

Q4: How does one maintain a barrel tap?

A4: Maintaining a barrel tap is simple. It doesn't take much time. First, disassemble the tap and clean it with warm water and soap. Rinse it with clean water and leave it to dry. Once it is dry, assemble the tap and store it properly. Follow these steps every time the barrel tap is used.

Q5: Can a barrel tap be used with any size of the barrel?

A5: Yes, barrel taps can be used with any size of the barrel. As mentioned earlier, some barrel taps have adapters that make them suitable for different sizes of barrels. The only thing that should be considered is the thread size. It is important to ensure that the thread size of the tap and the barrel/ keg are compatible.