Corny Keg: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Using This Essential Tool
Corny kegs, also known as Cornelius kegs, are stainless steel tanks that are commonly used for storing and dispensing carbonated beverages such as beer, soda, cold brew coffee, and more. These kegs are a popular choice among homebrewers/breweries due to their compact size and ease of use.
They come in various sizes, ranging from 2.5 to 15 gallons, and are designed to hold pressurized liquid up to a maximum of 130 psi. They are typically 8.5 to 9 inches in diameter and 22 to 25 inches tall, minus the draught line and gas line quick disconnects.
Homebrewers often prefer these kegs over other types of kegs because they are affordable, easy to clean, and can be used for both carbonating and dispensing their homemade brews.
Additionally, they are compatible with a wide range of kegerators, kegging systems, and other accessories, making them a versatile choice for any homebrewing setup.
Types of Corny Kegs
Cornelius kegs, come in two main types: ball lock kegs and pin lock kegs. Both types are named after the type of locking mechanism used to secure the keg's lid in place.
Ball Lock Kegs
Ball lock kegs, are the more common of the two types. They have a single handle on the lid and use a ball lock post system. The posts have a small ball bearing that locks into place when the keg is pressurized. Ball lock kegs are often used by homebrewers because they are easy to clean and maintain.
Pin Lock Kegs
Pin lock kegs, also known as Pepsi-style kegs, are less common than ball lock kegs. They have two handles on the lid and use a pin lock post system. The posts have small pins that lock into place when the keg is pressurized. Pin lock kegs were originally used by soda companies and are often found in the used market.
When deciding which type of keg to use, it's important to consider the availability of replacement parts and the compatibility of the keg with other equipment. Ball lock kegs are typically more widely available and interchangeable with other ball lock kegs. Pin lock kegs are less common and may require more effort to find replacement parts or adapters for other equipment.
Corny Keg Components
These kegs are made up of several components that work together to store and dispense beverages. Here are the main components of a Corny keg:
Lid and Pressure Relief Valve
The lid of a Corny keg is an essential component that seals the keg and prevents any leaks. Most lids come with an integral poppet valve, which helps to regulate the pressure inside the keg. The pressure relief valve is another important component that is located on the lid of the keg. It is designed to release excess pressure from the keg to prevent it from exploding.
Gas and Liquid Posts
The gas and liquid posts are located on the top of the keg and are used to connect the keg to the gas and liquid lines. The gas-side post is usually marked with a "G" and is used to connect the CO2 line to the keg. The draught-side post is marked with an "L" and is used to connect the beverage line to the keg.
Dip Tubes and O-Rings
The dip tube is a long tube that extends from the bottom of the keg and is used to draw the beverage out of the keg. The gas-in dip tube is shorter than the liquid-out dip tube and is designed to prevent the CO2 from mixing with the beverage. O-rings are also an essential component of a Corny keg. They are used to seal the lid and the posts, preventing any leaks.
Cornelius kegs are typically made of stainless steel and are durable and easy to clean. The keg parts are interchangeable, which makes it easy to replace any damaged components. With proper maintenance, a Corny keg can last for many years and provide a reliable way to store and dispense beverages.
Using Cornelius Kegs
Corn kegs are a popular choice for homebrewers due to their functionality, ease of use, and ability to hold pressurized liquid up to a maximum of 130 psi. In this section, we will discuss how to use these kegs for dispensing and carbonation, as well as cleaning and maintenance.
Dispensing and Carbonation
One of the benefits of using kegs is the ability to dispense and carbonate your beer at the same time. To do this, you will need to connect your CO2 tank to the "IN" post on the keg and set the regulator to the desired pressure. Then, connect the beer line to the "OUT" post on the keg and open the valve to start dispensing. As the beer is dispensed, the CO2 in the keg will carbonate the beer, giving it a nice, frothy head.
It's important to note that the amount of pressure you use will depend on the style of beer you are dispensing and your personal preference. Generally, most beers are carbonated at a pressure of around 10-12 psi, but this can vary depending on the style.
Cleaning and Maintenance
To keep your corny keg in good working order, it's important to clean and maintain them regularly. The first step is to disassemble the keg and remove the rubber gaskets. These should be washed with warm, soapy water and rinsed thoroughly before being reassembled.
The keg itself can be cleaned using a solution of hot water and a cleaning agent, such as PBW or OxiClean. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing the solution and allow the keg to soak for the recommended amount of time. Once the keg has been cleaned, rinse it thoroughly with hot water and allow it to air dry.
In addition to regular cleaning, it's important to check the rubber gaskets periodically for signs of wear or damage. If the gaskets are cracked or torn, they should be replaced immediately to prevent leaks.
Overall, these kegs are a great choice for homebrewers looking for an easy-to-use, pressurized container for dispensing and carbonating their beer. With proper cleaning and maintenance, these kegs can provide years of reliable service.
Corny Keg Applications
Corny kegs are versatile pieces of equipment that can be used for a variety of applications beyond just storing and dispensing beer. Here are a few examples of how they can be used:
Draft Cocktails
Cornelius kegs are perfect for serving draft cocktails at home or at a party. With a kegerator or a simple tap system, you can serve your favorite cocktails on draft without having to mix them up individually. This is a great option for home brewers who also enjoy mixing cocktails.
Cold Brew and Nitro Coffee
They are great for cold brew and nitro coffee. By using a keg system, you can make large batches of cold brew or nitro coffee and serve it on tap. This is a great option for coffee shops or home brewers who want to serve cold brew or nitro coffee on tap.
Kombucha and Soft Drinks
The kegs are also great for storing and serving kombucha and soft drinks. With a keg system, you can make large batches of kombucha or soft drinks and serve them on tap. This is a great option for home brewers who want to experiment with different kombucha or soft drink recipes.
Overall, cornelius kegs are a great investment for home brewers and anyone who enjoys serving drinks on tap. With the right kegerator or tap system, you can easily store and serve a variety of drinks on tap without having to worry about leaks or other issues.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a Corny keg, there are a few things to consider. In this section, we will discuss the differences between new and used kegs and the size considerations to keep in mind.
New Vs. Used
One of the first decisions to make when purchasing a Corny keg is whether to buy new or used. New kegs are typically more expensive than used ones, but they come with the benefit of being in perfect condition. They are also more likely to come with a warranty, which can give peace of mind to the buyer.
Used kegs, on the other hand, are more affordable, but they may require some refurbishing before use. It's important to inspect the keg thoroughly before purchasing it to ensure that it is in good condition. Additionally, some sellers may offer refurbished kegs, which have been cleaned and tested to ensure that they are in good working order.
Size Considerations
Corny kegs come in various sizes, including 2.5, 3, 5, and 15 gallons. The size of the keg you choose will depend on your needs and the space you have available.
When choosing a keg, it's important to keep in mind the space you have available. Corny kegs are typically 8.5 or 9 inches in diameter and from 22 to 25 inches tall, minus the draught. Make sure you have enough room to store and use the keg comfortably.
That concludes our buying guide. Keep in mind that the final decision will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Additionally, make sure to purchase the necessary accessories, such as a CO2 tank, regulator, keg fittings, disconnects, gas line quick disconnects, draught line, and nitrogen, to ensure that your kegging setup is complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is It Called a Corny Keg?
The name "corny keg" comes from the original manufacturer of the kegs, Cornelius Keg. These kegs were originally used in the soda industry and were made of stainless steel. They were designed to hold and dispense soda and other carbonated beverages.
How Long Does Beer Stay Fresh In a Corny Keg?
Beer can stay fresh in a corny keg for several months if stored properly. It is important to keep the keg at the proper temperature and to avoid exposing it to light. Additionally, it is recommended to purge the keg with CO2 before filling it with beer to prevent oxidation.
Where Can I Find Used Corny Kegs Near Me?
Used corny kegs can often be found at homebrew supply stores, online marketplaces, and classified ads. It is important to inspect the keg before purchasing it to ensure that it is in good condition and does not have any leaks or other issues. Additionally, it is recommended to clean and sanitize the keg before using it to avoid any contamination.
Summary
A Corny Keg is a pressurized container used to store and dispense carbonated beverages. It is often made of stainless steel and has a pressure relief valve and a tap. The keg comes in various sizes, including 2.5, 3, 5, 10, and 15 gallons. The capacity of a corny keg is typically 10 or 20 gallons.
Corny Kegs are widely used in homebrewing and commercial settings for storing and dispensing soft drinks, draft cocktails, and cold brew coffee. They are also used in commercial settings for storing and dispensing beer.
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