The Aluminum Advantage: A Look at the Benefits of Beer Kegs
Introduction
Beer kegs have come a long way over the years, from wooden barrels to stainless steel cylinders. However, a new material has emerged as a superior option for beer kegs: aluminum. This lightweight and durable metal offers a range of benefits that make it ideal for storing and serving beer. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the advantages of aluminum beer kegs.
What Makes Aluminum Kegs Better Than Other Materials?
Aluminum kegs offer a range of advantages over traditional materials like steel or plastic. Here are just a few of the advantages that aluminum provides:
- Durability: Aluminum is a strong and lightweight material, making it ideal for beer kegs which are often transported, stacked and moved around. It doesn’t rust or corrode either, ensuring your beer stays fresh and high in quality
- Accessibility: Aluminum kegs offer improved ease of use over traditional alternatives. The cylindrical shape of the kegs makes them easy to store, stack and transport making them ideal for larger events like festivals
- Recyclability: Aluminum is one of the most sustainable materials available, as it’s 100% recyclable. This means that, at the end of its life, the kegs can be easily recycled and turned into new products. Given the sustainability movement that is becoming more relevant every day, this is an added bonus for environmental-conscious businesses
- Lower cost: Aluminum kegs are often less expensive to make than steel kegs, which in turn reduces the cost of production of the beer making it in turn more accessible to the end consumer.
- Ease of cleaning: Aluminum kegs are extremely easy to clean, requiring only a rinse and scrub to remove any dirt or residue. This greatly simplifies the process and saves businesses time and money
What Are the Different Types of Aluminum Kegs Available?
Aluminum Kegs come in different sizes and shapes. When considering buying a keg, you’ll stumble upon the following types:
- Standard Aluminum Keg: This type of keg is cylindrical and comes in different sizes and capacities. Its portability and durability make it ideal for large events where many kegs of beer might be needed.
- Slim Aluminum Keg: This type of keg is sleeker, taller and easier to store than the standard kegs. They’re great for smaller bars with limited space who still want to offer a range of beers.
How to Maintain and Care for Aluminum Kegs
Caring for your aluminum keg is vital to ensure its longevity and continued use. Below are some tips to help you care for and maintain your kegs for years to come.
- Cleanliness: Maintain cleanliness to as top a standard as possible. Making sure the inside and outside of the keg are always clean before and after use will ensure it meets health & safety criteria and will extend the life of the keg
- Pressure settings: Don’t exceed the recommended pressure levels according to the keg’s manufacturer. This is vital to keep your aluminum keg in the best condition possible and avoid ruptures during service
- Storage location: Store your kegs in a dry, cool place. Don’t store it in direct sunlight as this can damage the quality of the beer.
- Temperature regulation: Be sure to regulate temperature levels within the keg, according to the beers specifications. Failure to do so can damage the beer beyond drinkable levels.
- Close taps when not in use: Keeping the taps closed when not in use ensures unwanted beer doesn’t evaporate and keeps the beer fresh and of high quality.
Conclusion
In summary, aluminum kegs provide a range of benefits over traditional alternatives making them ideal for businesses who prioritise ease of use, sustainability and cost-effectiveness as well as providing high-quality beer for their customers. If you’re looking for a reliable and long-lasting way to store and serve your beer, aluminum kegs may be your best option.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Are aluminum kegs safe?
A: Yes, aluminum kegs are safe. They’re made from a high-grade aluminum alloy that meets safety standards. Additionally, the pressure release valves on the kegs ensure that beer is dispensed smoothly and safely.
Q: How many beers can I get from an aluminum keg?
A: The number of beers you can get from an aluminum keg depends on the size of the keg. A standard 5-gallon keg can hold up to 55 12-ounce beers, while a half-barrel keg can hold up to 165 12-ounce beers.
Q: Where can I buy aluminum kegs?
A: You can purchase aluminum kegs from any supplier or retailer that serves the beverage industry. This includes dedicated beer keg distributors, breweries, or online retailers. As always we recommend doing your research before making any purchase to ensure that you find the best-quality keg for your needs.