tap head

A tap head, also known as a keg head or barrel connector, is an essential part of a beer dispensing system that is used to connect the keg to the dispensing system and to deliver the beer from the keg. The tap head ensures that the beer is delivered under pressure from the keg into the dispensing system's lines. Here is some important information about tap heads:

Functions and structure of a dispensing head

  1. Construction:

    • Handle or lever: Used to lock the tap head and open the keg.
    • Probe: The probe reaches into the keg and directs the beer into the pipe.
    • CO2 inlet: This is where the CO2 or other propellant gas is fed in to apply pressure to the beer and force it out of the keg.
    • Beer outlet: This is where the beer is fed from the keg into the beer line of the dispensing system.

  2. Functionality:

    • Connection to the keg: The tap head is placed on the keg and locked.
    • Activation: By operating the handle, the keg is opened and the CO2 pushes the beer through the probe into the line.
    • Dispensing: The beer flows through the pipe to the tap, where it is poured.

Types of dispensing heads

  1. A-Type: Mainly used in Germany and suitable for many German beers.
  2. D-Type (Sankey): Widely used in the USA and many international beers.
  3. S-type (European Sankey): Commonly used in Europe, similar to the D-type but with minor differences in construction.
  4. U-type: Specifically for certain British beers such as Guinness.
  5. G-Type: Also known as "Grundy" type, used for some British and international beers.
  6. M-Type: Used for some special beers and is less common.

Choosing the right dispensing head

  1. Type of beer: The choice of tap head depends on the type of beer and the country of origin. Each beer keg has a specific tap head that must be used.
  2. Compatibility: It is important to ensure that the tap head is compatible with the tap system and the keg.
  3. Material: Tap heads can be made of different materials such as stainless steel or chrome-plated brass. Stainless steel is durable and hygienic.

Installation and use

  1. Connection:

    • Place the tap head on the keg and lock it by pressing down or turning the handle.
    • Make sure all connections are tight and sealed to avoid leaks.

  2. Adjust pressure:

    • Regulate the CO2 pressure according to the beer type to ensure optimal foam and flow control.
    • Normally the pressure is between 1.5 and 3 bar, depending on the beer and temperature.

  3. Cones:

    • Open the tap and let the beer flow. The tap head ensures that the beer comes out of the keg evenly and under constant pressure.

Care and Maintenance

  1. Regular cleaning: After each use, tap heads should be thoroughly cleaned to prevent deposits and contamination.
  2. Check seals: The seals in the tap head should be checked regularly for wear and replaced if necessary to prevent leaks.
  3. Sterilization: The tap head should be sterilized at regular intervals to ensure hygiene.

Popular brands and manufacturers

  1. Micro Matic: A leading manufacturer of dispensing heads and other components for dispensing systems, known for their high quality and reliability.
  2. Kegco: Offers a wide range of tap heads and accessories for different beer types and dispensing systems.
  3. Taprite: Known for their robust and durable tap heads, which are used in many bars and restaurants around the world.

Summary

A tap head is an essential component of a dispensing system that connects the beer keg to the system and ensures that the beer flows from the keg into the pipe under pressure. There are different types of tap heads that must be selected depending on the type of beer and country of origin.

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