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Kegs & Beer barrels

Breweries of all kinds rely on beer kegs to deliver their products to customers safely and cost-effectively or to use them as storage containers until dispensing. Stainless steel kegs, also known as KEGs, are a practical and efficient solution for the storage, delivery, and dispensing of beverages—be it beer, wine, or non-alcoholic drinks. They preserve the freshness and quality of the beer and are unbeatable in terms of sustainability, as a KEG can only become unusable through improper handling or accidents. Many beer enthusiasts prefer the taste of freshly tapped draft beer over bottled beer, as the higher CO2 content of draft beer contributes to a more sparkling and refreshing taste.
Filter
12.5 L KEGGY - Refurbished
12.5 L KEGGYTested for leak-tightness.A small stainless steel keg with a 12.5-liter capacity, coated with PU, featuring a tank for 100 grams of liquid carbon dioxide and a patented foolproof dispensing mechanism. It solves many problems in households and small eateries. It ensures draft beer quality at all times, allows you to pour the beer when you need it (even tapped beer stays fresh for weeks), eliminates the fear of spraying when tapping, and requires no beer line cleaning.

€12.00*
20 L Party Keg with bavarian tapping - with Fitting / spear
Fitting / spear: Flat fitting / spear with safety, type A
Product Information: "20 L Party Keg with Bavarian Tapping - Refurbished"This used 20-liter party keg is available immediately and has been carefully and manually refurbished by us.All kegs are initially opened (meaning the fitting is removed) and cleaned with high-pressure washers both inside and out. Any labels are removed, and any name embossing is neutralized or obscured. Additionally, the couplers are aligned, and the top and bottom rims are reformed. Before the kegs are put back on sale, the fitting is overhauled and reinstalled. Of course, the kegs are also checked for leak-tightness. This allows you to have a fitting of your choice installed in the keg. As an additional service, we offer to polish the kegs in our special machine for a small additional fee.Product Details: - Material: PU (Polyurethane), CFC-free, UV stabilized - Diameter: 340 mm - Fitting / spear: 2’’ x 14 TPI with fine thread- Total Height: 410 mm - Weight: approx. 7 kg (without fitting / spear) - Non-stackable - Fitting / spear customizable- Bavarian tapping - Available immediately

From €82.00*
DIN 20 L Schäfer Plus PU KEG Ø 395 mm A-Quality with bavarian dispense - stackable - with Fitting / spear
Fitting / spear: Flat fitting / spear with safety, type A
Product Information "DIN 20 L Schäfer Plus PU KEG Ø 395 mm A-Quality with Bavarian Tapping - Stackable - with Fitting"This used 20-liter PU keg is immediately available and has been meticulously and manually refurbished by us.All kegs are first opened (i.e., the fitting is removed) and cleaned internally and externally with high-pressure washers. Any existing labels are removed and name engravings are neutralized or made unrecognizable. The sleeves are aligned and the top and bottom rims are straightened. Before the kegs are put back on sale, the fitting is overhauled and reinstalled. Of course, the kegs are also tested for leakage. This allows you to have a fitting of your choice installed in the keg. As an additional service, we offer to polish the kegs in our special machine for a small extra charge. Productdetails: - Material: PU (Polyurethane) CFC-free, UV-stabilized - Diameter: 395 mm - Fitting / spear: 2’’x 14 TPI with fine thread - Total Height: 330 mm - Weight: approx. 10 kg (without fitting / spear) - With bursts up to 20 mm - stackable - Fitting / spear selectable - Immediately available

From €64.00*
Sold out
DIN 30 L Schäfer Plus PU KEG Ø 395 mm A-Quality - stackable - with Fitting / spear
Fitting / spear: Flat fitting / spear with safety, type A
Product Information "DIN 30 L Schäfer Plus PU KEG Ø 395 mm A Quality - Stackable - with Fitting"This used 30-liter PU keg is immediately available and has been carefully and manually refurbished by us.All kegs are first opened (i.e., the fitting is removed) and cleaned internally and externally with high-pressure washers. Any existing labels are removed and name engravings are neutralized or made unrecognizable. The sleeves are aligned and the top and bottom rims are straightened. Before the kegs are put back on sale, the fitting is overhauled and reinstalled. Naturally, the kegs are also tested for leakage. This allows you to have a fitting of your choice installed in the keg. Additionally, we offer the option to polish the kegs in our specialized machine for a small extra charge. Productdetails: - Material: PU (Polyurethane) CFC-free, UV-stabilized - Diameter: 395 mm outside - Fitting / spear: Coarse thread - Total Height: 400 mm - Weight: approx. 10 kg (without fitting / spear) - With bursts up to 2 cm - stackable - Fitting / spear selectable - Immediately available

From €60.00*
Sold out
DIN 30 L Schäfer Plus PU KEG Ø 395 mm C Quality - stackable - with Fitting / spear
Fitting / spear: Flat fitting / spear with safety, type A
Product Information "DIN 30 L Schäfer Plus PU KEG Ø 395 mm C Quality - Stackable - with Fitting / spear"This used 30-liter PU keg is immediately available and has been carefully and manually refurbished by us.All kegs are first opened (i.e., the fitting is removed) and cleaned internally and externally with high-pressure washers. Any existing labels are removed and name engravings are neutralized or made unrecognizable. The sleeves are aligned and the top and bottom rims are straightened. Before the kegs are put back on sale, the fitting is overhauled and reinstalled. Naturally, the kegs are also tested for leakage. This allows you to have a fitting of your choice installed in the keg. Additionally, we offer the option to polish the kegs in our specialized machine for a small extra charge. Productdetails: - Material: PU (Polyurethane) CFC-free, UV-stabilized - Diameter: 395 mm outside - Fitting / spear: Coarse thread - Total Height: 400 mm - Weight: approx. 10 kg (without fitting / spear) - With bursts up to 4 cm - stackable - Fitting / spear selectable - Immediately available

From €45.00*
DIN 30L Stainless Steel KEG Ø 363 mm - non-stackable - with Fitting / spear
Fitting / spear: Flat fitting / spear with safety, type A
Product Information "DIN 30L Stainless Steel KEG Ø 395 mm - Non-Stackable - with Fitting"This used 30-liter keg is immediately available and has been carefully and manually refurbished by us.All kegs are initially opened (i.e., the fitting is removed) and thoroughly cleaned both inside and outside using high-pressure water cleaners. Any existing labels are removed, and any name engravings are neutralized or made unrecognizable. The sockets are straightened, and the top and bottom rings are repaired. Before the kegs are put back on sale, the fitting is overhauled and reinstalled. Naturally, the kegs are also tested for leaks. This allows you to have a fitting of your choice installed in the keg. Additionally, we offer a polishing service for the kegs in our special machine for a small extra fee. Productdetails: . Fitting / spear: 2x14 TPI . Diameter: 395 mm . Total Height: 365 mm (H1) . Weight: approx. 10 kg (without fitting / spear) . Material: Stainless Steel AISI 304 . 100% Recyclable. Environmentally Friendly . Non - stackable . Made in Europe . Maintains 100% Beer Quality and Flavor . Fitting / spear selectable . Ergonomic Handles . Roll Seam for Easy Handling All weights are without fitting / spear. Fitting / spear choice available.*Polishing the keg is an additional service.

From €62.00*
Sold out
DIN 30L Stainless Steel KEG Ø 363 mm – stackable – with Fitting / spear
Fitting / spear: Flat fitting / spear with safety, type A
Product Information "DIN 30L Stainless Steel KEG Ø 363 mm – Stackable – with Fitting / spear"This used 30-liter stainless steel keg is immediately available and has been meticulously and manually refurbished by us.All kegs are initially opened (i.e., the fitting is removed) and thoroughly cleaned both inside and outside using high-pressure water cleaners. Any existing labels are removed, and any name engravings are neutralized or made unrecognizable. The sockets are straightened, and the top and bottom rings are repaired. Before the kegs are put back on sale, the fitting is overhauled and reinstalled. Naturally, the kegs are also tested for leaks. This allows you to have a fitting of your choice installed in the keg. Additionally, we offer a polishing service for the kegs in our special machine for a small extra fee. DIN 30 L Edelstahl stapelbar Fass - überarbeitet   ·        Fitting / spear: 2x14 TPI ·        Ø Diameter: 363 mm ·        Total Height 400 mm (H1), 370 mm (H2) ·        stackable ·        Weight: ca. 10 kg (without Fitting / spear) ·        Material: Edelstahl AISI 304 ·        100% recycelbar. Environmentally Friendly ·        Made in Europe ·        Maintains 100% Beer Quality and Flavor ·        Ergonomic Handles ·        Roll Seam for Easy Handling All weights are without fitting. Fitting choice available.*Polishing the keg is an additional service.

From €62.00*
> 500 available
DIN 50L Schäfer Plus PU KEG Ø 395 mm C Quality - stackable - with Fitting / spear
Fitting / spear: Flat fitting / spear with safety, type A
Product Information "DIN 50 L Schäfer Plus PU KEG Ø 395 mm C Quality - Stackable - with Fitting / spear"This used 50-liter PU keg is immediately available and has been carefully and manually refurbished by us. All kegs are initially opened (i.e., the fitting is removed) and thoroughly cleaned both inside and out using high-pressure water cleaners. Any existing labels are removed, and name engravings are neutralized or made unrecognizable. The sockets are straightened, and the top and bottom rings are repaired. Before the kegs are returned to sale, the fitting is overhauled and reinstalled. Naturally, the kegs are also tested for leaks. This allows you to have a fitting of your choice installed in the keg. Additionally, we offer a polishing service for the kegs in our special machine for a small extra fee.50 L Schäfer Plus KEG - Used C QualityMixed Fitting / spear(Coarse and Fine Threads)Operational - with Breakouts from 40 mmHeight: 600 mmDiameter: 395 mmWeight: approx. 12 kg (without fitting)Material: PU (Polyurethane) FCKW-free, UV Stabilized

From €45.00*
> 500 available
DIN 50L Stainless Steel KEG Ø 363 mm - non-stackable - with Fitting / spear
Fitting / spear: Flat fitting / spear with safety, type A
Product Information "DIN 50L Stainless Steel KEG Ø 363 mm - Non-stackable - with Fitting / spear"This used 50-liter stainless steel keg is immediately available and has been carefully and manually refurbished by us. All kegs are first opened (i.e., the fitting is removed) and thoroughly cleaned with high-pressure water both inside and out. Any existing labels are removed, and name embossings are neutralized or made unrecognizable. The fittings are straightened, and the top and bottom rims are reformed. Before the kegs are put back on sale, the fitting is overhauled and reinstalled. Naturally, the kegs are also tested for leak tightness. This allows you to have a fitting of your choice installed in the keg. Additionally, we offer the option to polish the kegs in our special machine for a small extra fee.DIN 50 L Stainless Steel Non-stackable Keg - Refurbished ·         Fitting / spear: 2x14 TPI ·         Diameter: 363 mm ·         Total Height: 600 mm (H1) ·         Non-stackable ·         Weight: approx. 12 kg (without fitting / spear) ·         Material: Stainless Steel AISI 304 ·         100% recyclable, environmentally friendly ·         Made in Europe ·         Maintains 100% beer quality and taste ·         Ergonomic handles ·         Roll bead for easy handlingAll weights are provided without fitting. Fitting is selectable.*Polishing of the keg is an additional service.

From €56.00*
> 500 available
DIN 50L Stainless Steel KEG Ø 363 mm - stackable - with Fitting / spear
Fitting / spear: Flat fitting / spear with safety, type A
Product Information "DIN 50L Stainless Steel KEG Ø 363 mm - stackable - with Fitting / spear"This used 50-liter stainless steel keg is immediately available and has been carefully and manually refurbished by us. All kegs are first opened (i.e., the fitting is removed) and thoroughly cleaned with high-pressure water both inside and out. Any existing labels are removed, and name embossings are neutralized or made unrecognizable. The fittings are straightened, and the top and bottom rims are reformed. Before the kegs are put back on sale, the fitting is overhauled and reinstalled. Naturally, the kegs are also tested for leak tightness. This allows you to have a fitting of your choice installed in the keg. Additionally, we offer the option to polish the kegs in our special machine for a small extra fee.DIN 50L Stainless Steel Stackable Keg - Refurbished ·         Fitting: 2x14 TPI ·         Diameter: 363 mm ·         Total Height: 600 mm (H1) ·         stackable ·         Weight: approx. 12 kg (without fitting) ·         Material: Stainless Steel AISI 304 ·         100% recyclable, environmentally friendly ·         Made in Europe ·         Maintains 100% beer quality and taste ·         Ergonomic handles ·         Roll bead for easy handlingAll weights are provided without fitting / spear. Spear is selectable.*Polishing of the keg is an additional service.

From €62.00*
Sold out
EURO 30L Stainless Steel KEG Ø 395 mm - stackable - with Fitting / spear
Fitting / spear: Flat fitting / spear with safety, type A
Product Information "EURO 30L Stainless Steel KEG Ø 395 mm - stackable - with Fitting / spear"This used 30-liter stainless steel keg is immediately available and has been carefully and manually refurbished by us. All kegs are first opened (i.e., the fitting is removed) and thoroughly cleaned with high-pressure water both inside and out. Any existing labels are removed, and name embossings are neutralized or made unrecognizable. The fittings are straightened, and the top and bottom rims are reformed. Before the kegs are put back on sale, the fitting is overhauled and reinstalled. Naturally, the kegs are also tested for leak tightness. This allows you to have a fitting of your choice installed in the keg. Additionally, we offer the option to polish the kegs in our special machine for a small extra fee.Product Details: · Fitting / spear: 2x14 TPI · Diameter: 395 mm · Total Height: 365 mm (H1) · Stackable · Weight: approx. 10 kg (without fitting) · Material: Stainless Steel AISI 304 · 100% recyclable, environmentally friendly · Made in Europe · Maintains 100% beer quality and taste · Ergonomic handles · Roll bead for easy handlingAll weights are provided without fitting / spear. Spear is selectable.*Polishing of the keg is an additional service.

From €60.00*
> 500 available
EURO 30L Stainless Steel KEG Ø 395 mm – non-stackable - with Fitting / spear
Fitting / spear: Flat fitting / spear with safety, type A
Product Information "EURO 30L Stainless Steel KEG Ø 395 mm – Non-stackable with Fitting / spear "This used 30-liter stainless steel keg is immediately available and has been carefully and manually refurbished by us. All kegs are first opened (i.e., the fitting is removed) and thoroughly cleaned with high-pressure water both inside and out. Any existing labels are removed, and name embossings are neutralized or made unrecognizable. The fittings are straightened, and the top and bottom rims are reformed. Before the kegs are put back on sale, the fitting is overhauled and reinstalled. Naturally, the kegs are also tested for leak tightness. This allows you to have a fitting of your choice installed in the keg. Additionally, we offer the option to polish the kegs in our special machine for a small extra fee.EURO 30L Stainless Steel Non-stackable Keg - Refurbished ·         Fitting / spear: 2x14 TPI ·         Diameter: 395 mm ·         Total Height: 365 mm (H1) ·         Non-stackable ·         Weight: approx. 10 kg (without fitting) ·         Material: Stainless Steel AISI 304 ·         100% recyclable, environmentally friendly ·         Made in Europe ·         Maintains 100% beer quality and taste ·         Ergonomic handles ·         Roll bead for easy handlingAll weights are provided without fitting. Fitting is selectable.*Polishing of the keg is an additional service.

From €60.00*
> 500 available
EURO 50L Stainless Steel KEG Ø 395 mm - non-stackable - with Fitting / spear
Fitting / spear: Flat fitting / spear with safety, type A
Product Information "EURO 50L Stainless Steel KEG Ø 395 mm - Non-stackable - with Fitting / spear"This used 50-liter stainless steel keg is immediately available and has been carefully and manually refurbished by us. All kegs are first opened (i.e., the fitting is removed) and thoroughly cleaned with high-pressure water both inside and out. Any existing labels are removed, and name embossings are neutralized or made unrecognizable. The fittings are straightened, and the top and bottom rims are reformed. Before the kegs are put back on sale, the fitting is overhauled and reinstalled. Naturally, the kegs are also tested for leak tightness. This allows you to have a fitting of your choice installed in the keg. Additionally, we offer the option to polish the kegs in our special machine for a small extra fee.EURO 50L Stainless Steel Non-stackable Keg - Refurbished ·         Fitting / spear: 2x14 TPI ·         Diameter: 395 mm ·         Total Height: 535 mm (H1) ·         Non-stackable ·         Weight: approx. 12 kg (without fitting) ·         Material: Stainless Steel AISI 304 ·         100% recyclable, environmentally friendly ·         Made in Europe ·         Maintains 100% beer quality and taste ·         Ergonomic handles ·         Roll bead for easy handlingAll weights are provided without fitting. Fitting is selectable.*Polishing of the keg is an additional service.

From €61.00*
GSG 10L KEG Ø 237 mm - non-stackable - with Fitting / spear
Fitting / spear: Flat fitting / spear with safety, type A
Product Information "GSG 10L KEG Ø 237 mm - Non-stackable - with Fitting / spear"This used 10-liter Rubber Steel Rubber keg is immediately available and has been carefully and manually refurbished by us. All kegs are first opened (i.e., the fitting is removed) and thoroughly cleaned with high-pressure water both inside and out. Any existing labels are removed, and name embossings are neutralized or made unrecognizable. The fittings are straightened, and the top and bottom rims are reformed. Before the kegs are put back on sale, the fitting is overhauled and reinstalled. Naturally, the kegs are also tested for leak tightness. This allows you to have a fitting of your choice installed in the keg. Additionally, we offer the option to polish the kegs in our special machine for a small extra fee.SLIM GSG 10L Stainless Steel Keg - Refurbished·        Fitting / spear: 2x14 TPI ·        Ø Diameter: 237 mm ·        Total Height: 337 mm (H1) ·        Non-stackable ·        Weight: approx. 3.5 kg (without fitting / spear) ·        Material: Stainless Steel AISI 304 with rubber top and bottom rims ·        100% recyclable, environmentally friendly ·        Made in Europe ·        Maintains 100% beer quality and taste ·        Ergonomic handles All weights are provided without fitting. Fitting is selectable.*Polishing of the keg is an additional service.

From €52.00*
GSG 20 L KEG Ø 237 mm SLIM - non-stackable - with Fitting / spear
Fitting / spear: Flat fitting / spear with safety, type A
Product Information "20 L KEG Ø 237 mm SLIM - Non-stackable - with Fitting / spear "This used 20-liter keg is immediately available and has been carefully and manually refurbished by us.All kegs are first opened (i.e., the fitting is removed) and cleaned thoroughly with high-pressure cleaners both inside and out. Any existing labels are removed, and name embossings are neutralized or made unrecognizable. The fittings are straightened, and the top and bottom rims are reformed. Before the kegs are put back on sale, the fitting is overhauled and reinstalled. Of course, the kegs are also tested for leak tightness. This allows you to have a fitting of your choice installed in the keg. As an additional service, we offer the option to polish the kegs in our special machine for a small extra fee.SLIM GSG 20 L Stainless Steel Keg - Refurbished·        Fitting / spear: 2x14 TPI ·        Ø Diameter: 237 mm ·        Total Height: 337 mm (H1) ·        Non-stackable ·        Weight: approx. 5 kg (without fitting / spear) ·        Material: Stainless Steel AISI 304 with rubber top and bottom rims ·        100% recyclable, environmentally friendly ·        Made in Europe ·        Maintains 100% beer quality and taste ·        Ergonomic handles All weights are provided without fitting. Fitting is selectable.*Polishing of the keg is an additional service.

From €56.00*
> 500 available
SLIM 20L Stainless Steel KEG Ø 237 mm MY 2018/2019 - non-stackable - with Fitting / spear
Fitting / spear: Flat fitting / spear with safety, type A
Product Information "SLIM 20L Stainless Steel KEG Ø 237 mm MY 2018/2019 - Non-Stackable - with Fitting / spear"This used 20-liter stainless steel keg is immediately available and has been meticulously and manually refurbished. Each keg is first opened (i.e., the fitting is removed) and thoroughly cleaned inside and out using high-pressure water cleaners. Any existing labels are removed, and name engravings are neutralized or made unrecognizable. The sockets are straightened, and the top and bottom rings are repaired. Before the kegs are put back on sale, the fitting is overhauled and reinstalled. Naturally, the kegs are also tested for leaks. You can have a fitting of your choice installed in the keg. Additionally, we offer a polishing service for the kegs in our special machine for a small extra fee.SLIM 20 L Stainless Steel Keg - Refurbished ·         Fitting / spear: 2x14 TPI ·         Diameter: 237 mm ·         Total Height: 570 mm (H1) ·         Non-Stackable ·         Weight: approx. 6 kg (without fitting) ·         Material: Stainless Steel AISI 304 ·         100% Recyclable: Environmentally friendly ·         Made in Europe ·         Maintains 100% Beer Quality and Flavor ·         Ergonomic HandlesAll weights are provided without the fitting. Fitting options are available.*Polishing of the keg is an additional service.

From €61.00*

Important Facts about Kegs

Volumes

Kegs are available in various sizes, ranging from 10 liters to 59.62 liters (1/2 barrel). The trend is moving towards smaller containers that require less space under the counter and comply with current laws regarding maximum weights that can be moved by hand.

Types

There are different types of kegs, such as DIN/EURO, PU (polyurethane), GSG (rubber-steel-rubber), Slim, or GO kegs. These barrels differ in their height, diameter, material, and volume.

Material

Kegs were previously made of aluminum, but nowadays they are mostly made of high-quality stainless steel 1.4301 (AISI 304), making them taste-neutral and robust. All parts in contact with the product are entirely made of this material.

Branding

Kegs can be individually branded – whether with embossing, colors, bands, etchings, signs, or labels. Logos or brand names can be placed on the keg.

Areas of Application

Kegs are used for beer, wine, sparkling wine, cider, water, juice, soft drinks, edible oil (olive oil, sunflower, soy, etc.).

What Exactly is a "Keg"?

A keg is a specially designed reusable barrel for filling and storing beverages. The name "keg" comes from English and means "small barrel." Introduced in 1964 in the United Kingdom, kegs have become an international standard. Initially made of aluminum, they were later replaced by kegs made entirely of stainless steel or barrels with a stainless steel bladder and polyurethane (PU) coating due to their greater durability. Also available on the market are barrels with rubber or plastic head and foot rings. Kegs are standardized, can be cleaned and filled by machines. The beverage filled in this way is sterile, long-lasting, and fresh. Kegs are environmentally friendly, sustainable, and can be reused over 100 times. They are 100% recyclable and have a long lifespan of up to 30 years or more.

Advantages of Stainless Steel Kegs

The advantages of a stainless steel barrel for storing and transporting beverages/liquids include:
  • Protection against UV light and UV contamination
  • Hygienic; prevents any kind of oxidation and entry of contaminants
  • Insulates against sudden temperature changes
  • Significant cost savings due to up to 30 years of barrel longevity
  • Prevents the use of trichloroanisole (TCA)
  • Maintains the organoleptic properties of the product
  • Allows for easy transport and storage
  • Durable, safe, and non-flammable
  • Stackable

Features of a Standardized Barrel – Example: Blefa Keg

Rolling Hoop

The rolling hoop is specially designed to provide ideal protection against impact and shock in the highly stressed area of the upper and lower chime - deformations are minimized. The exceptional shape of the hoop ensures high stability and is user-friendly.

Handles

Practical and safe handling through cleanly rounded and burr-free cutouts for carrying. Their round, physiognomic shape provides stability and reduces the risk of accidents and injuries.

Circumferential Weld Seam

A weld seam around the barrel according to the latest technology. These seams are perfectly gap- and pore-free. The clean and smooth inner surface of the barrel makes it easy to clean and prevents infection of the contents.

Beads

Beads significantly contribute to the strength of the keg – they strengthen the barrel contour. The special shape also ensures optimal movement on the cleaning and filling system.

Burst Protection

This ensures that at an overpressure of about 35 +/- 5 bar, the burst point opens and the barrel does not burst (explode), thus preventing an accident.

Drain Hole

Punched into the upper and lower chime to allow for the drainage of dirt during cleaning and improve the cleaning result. This way, dirt in the area of the fitting and bottom can be optimally removed.

Shoulder Protection

Head and foot rings are equipped with a contour overlapping the cylindrical body, which evenly distributes the point load on the keg in case of falls. This prevents point deformations.

Market Forms

Kegs are available in a wide variety of shapes and sizes on the market. The largest manufacturers, such as BLEFA, Thielmann, Schäfer, Supermonte, and Maisonneuve, strive to offer them with various customization features. Standards like EURO, DIN, SLIM, BARREL, etc., specify the diameter, empty weight, and height of the kegs. Examples include DIN, EURO, and SLIM barrels from Blefa. The most common barrels in the industry are 30-liter and 50-liter DIN and EURO kegs and 20-liter SLIM kegs. 10-liter SLIM kegs tend to fall under the category of "party kegs."

Dispensing

For dispensing beverages from a keg, whether new or used and regardless of the filling volume, various components are crucial. The keg is filled with the liquid (often beer). A suitable tap head is attached to the keg's riser tube. Using this tap head allows access to the beverage in the barrel via the riser tube. The keg is thus connected to a dispensing system (tap system) via the tap head and hoses. This system regulates the dispensing and ensures that the beverage is dispensed in optimal quality. A driving gas (either CO2 or N2) pushes the beverage out of the keg through the riser tube. The gas creates the necessary pressure to allow the liquid to flow optimally. Each riser tube/fitting can only be connected to a tap head compatible with the system. The system of keg, riser tube, and tap head guarantees proper functioning and hygienic dispensing. There are various tap head riser tube systems, including the flat fitting (A), the triangular fitting (G), the basket fitting (S), and the combination fitting (M).

Cleaning the Barrel – Example: Brewery with Filling and Cleaning System

Pre-Cleaning of the Fitting

First, the fitting must be cleaned. The fitting is the entrance on which the tap head is placed. This cleaning is done externally with hot water and/or steam. Hygiene is of utmost importance here, as the subsequent cleaning steps are carried out through the fitting.

Compressed Air Flushing

Beer or beverage residues inside the barrel are blown out with compressed air. The compressed air is directed into the barrel through the fitting, displacing the liquid. The barrel is upside down, allowing the liquid to drain out through the fitting. At the same time, it is checked whether the barrel is still tight. If it does not pass the pressure test, it is sorted out and recycled.

Internal Cleaning

The actual internal cleaning is done with air, followed by mixed water and a lye. Further cleaning steps with acid, hot water, and steam are then carried out, sterilizing the barrel from the inside.

External Cleaning

Finally, the barrel is cleaned from the outside and is ready for the next filling.

KEG Service; Processing of Used Barrels – Example: Rausch & Partner

Cleaning of Used Barrels – Example: Rausch & Partner

The fitting is unscrewed before cleaning the keg and cleaned separately (see fitting service). The fitting is the connection on which the tap head is placed. The barrel is "turned upside down" to empty beer or beverage residues from inside the barrel. Then the barrel is placed upside down (with the fitting down) in the cleaning machine.

Internal Cleaning

The actual internal cleaning is done with high-pressure water up to 500 bar. The barrel is thoroughly cleaned with several nozzles through a rotational movement of the barrel and the cleaning lance. The water then runs out through the fitting and is collected outside the system.

External Cleaning

Finally, the barrel is cleaned from the outside and is ready for the next filling. Breweries are advised to sterilize the keg before filling.

Neutralization

The used barrel usually carries an embossed name of the previous brewery. Additionally, the barrel may also have stickers, bands, or color stripes. Before the barrels can be resold, these characteristics of the previous owner must be removed. Typically, the embossed name in the head ring is made unrecognizable with a neutralizing machine using a waffle pattern. This waffle pattern is internationally recognized. The bands, stickers, or color stripes are removed.

Straightening

During the use of the keg, the upper or lower chime may have been dented. These are straightened with special machines so that the barrel can run smoothly over the cleaning and filling system. It may also happen that the fitting of the barrel is not straight. This is also straightened by us before the barrels leave our warehouse.

Customization

At the customer's request, the barrel can also be polished, giving it a second youth and making it look like new. Neutralized kegs can be customized in various ways to highlight the brand and increase its visibility. One option is to engrave/etch the keg electrolytically. This can be done with a logo, brand name, or other design of choice. However, your logo or lettering is etched in only one standard color (black/dark brown). If you opt for printed keg bands or labels, these can be made in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, offering plenty of room for your individual design and colors. For the creation of the bands, stickers, or stencils for electrolytic etching, we need your logo/lettering in PDF format. This will then be set according to your wishes by our agencies. Before we start the customization, we create a sample and send you a photo for approval.

Fittings

Fitting A-System (Flat Fitting)

The A-System is a slide tap head with a flat design and round flange shape. The fitting is made of high-quality nickel-plated brass and a stainless steel probe. All parts that come into contact with beer are made of stainless steel to exclude the risk of a metallic taste.

Fitting G-System (Triangular Fitting)

The G-Series fittings are structurally identical to the A-Series. The distinguishing feature is the housing, which is not round at the top but triangular. The fitting is placed and screwed in.

Fitting S-System (Basket Fitting)

Basket fittings can be recognized by their housing, which gives the appearance of a basket from above. The fittings are made of stainless steel and offer maximum stability, hygiene, and fast filling. They also feature a dual-valve function.

Fitting M-System (Combination Fitting)

Combination fittings are, as the name suggests, a combination of the flat and basket fittings. The internal structure is very similar to the basket fitting, while the housing is modeled after the flat fitting to utilize its hygienic advantages. Looking from above at the combination fittings, you can see the flat flange like the flat fitting, which, however, has a "ball" in the middle. A+M+G fittings have the advantage of being more hygienic compared to the basket (S-System). In the S-System, beer residues and dirt can accumulate more easily in the basket. Special tools are required for the installation and maintenance of the fittings, including decompression keys, disassembly tools, and an assembly gun. The color coding of the CO2 seals facilitates manual or camera-supported machine separation of the kegs for routine maintenance. The barrel can also be easily cleaned through the fitting. Keg cleaning is usually done in the breweries themselves. The barrels go through several stations and are cleaned both inside and outside to prepare them for the next filling.

Fitting Service – Example: Rausch & Partner GmbH

Used kegs are delivered to us at the warehouse by the brewery. The fitting is unscrewed from the barrel using manufacturer-certified tools. The fitting is disassembled for visual inspection of the individual parts. Worn parts (e.g., spring, seal, and plate) are replaced with new parts. At the customer's request, the stainless steel parts can also be cleaned in an ultrasonic bath with a special liquid in addition to normal cleaning. After cleaning, the fitting is reassembled with new seals and, if necessary, new spare parts. The fitting length specified by the manufacturer is checked and adjusted if necessary. Finally, the fitting is mounted in the cleaned keg. The fitting is tightened to 70-80 Nm. Finally, the fitting is subjected to a leak test at a pneumatic pressure test (2 bar).