CO2 & ACCESSORIES

Applications for CO2 in beer brewing

  1. Force Carbonation :
    • This is the process where CO2 is added to the beer under pressure to carbonate it faster than natural carbonation.
  2. Serving :
    • CO2 is used to propel the beer out of the keg through the tap line and into the glass.
  3. Transfer :
    • CO2 can be used to transfer beer from one tank or keg to another, without exposing the beer to oxygen.

CO2 regulators

CO2 regulators are critical for controlling the pressure of CO2 supplied to the keg. The regulators ensure that the correct amount of CO2 is supplied for the various processes. Here are some types and equipment that can be used with CO2 regulators:

  1. Single-stage Regulators :
    • These have one pressure gauge to show the pressure entering the barrel and an adjustable valve to control the pressure.
  2. Double-stage Regulators :
    • These have two pressure gauges; one to show the pressure in the CO2 bottle and one for the pressure going to the keg.
  3. Bottle adapters :
    • Adapters that connect to CO2 cylinders to fit regulators and equipment.

Equipment for CO2 regulators

  1. Hoses and Connectors :

    • High-pressure hoses and different types of couplings (ball-lock, pin-lock) to connect the regulator to the barrel.

  2. Distribution blocks :

    • Used to distribute CO2 from a single source to multiple barrels simultaneously.

  3. Pressure relief valves :

    • Safety valves that release excess pressure to prevent damage to equipment.

  4. Manometers :

    • Additional or replacement pressure gauges for accurate pressure readings.

Transmission equipment

  1. CO2 Transfer Tube :
    • Pipe used to transfer beer from one tank or keg to another using CO2 pressure.
  2. Barrel couplings :
    • Specialized connectors for easy and safe transfer of beer between kegs.

Carbonation equipment

  1. Carbonation stones :
    • These stones, often made of stainless steel, are used to disperse CO2 evenly throughout the beer during forced carbonation.
  2. Carbonation cap :
    • Lid with integrated carbonation stones to make forced carbonation easier and more efficient.

With the proper use of CO2 and associated equipment, home brewers and professional breweries can ensure that beer maintains high quality from brewing to serving.