Flow Restrictor Segment Stick: What It Is and How It Works

May 25, 2023

Flow restrictor segment stick is an essential component in beer dispensing systems. These sticks are designed to provide consistent flow restriction right at the tower, ensuring that beer is dispensed with the right restriction value. The sticks are typically used in conjunction with Barriermaster Flavourlock™ Tubing, which ensures both performance and longevity.The segment sticks are simple yet effective solution for controlling beer flow in a draft beer dispensing system. It consists of multiple segments per stick, each of which restricts the flow of beer. This means that the more segments you use, the greater the restriction will be. The sticks are easy to install and can be used in a variety of different dispensing systems, typically in commercial beer systems, where added restriction is needed to balance the beer system.One of the key benefits of using a flow restrictor segment stick is that it saves underbar space. Unlike using standard choke line to achieve the required restriction. The segment stick can be installed directly below the dispensing tower. This means that you can maximize the use of your underbar space and avoid cluttering your setup with unnecessary components.

What is a Flow Restrictor Segment Stick?

Picture of flow restrictor segment stick set up

Flow RestrictorA flow restrictor segment stick is a device that provides consistent flow restriction before the tower. It is a passive device that uses many segments per stick to limit the flow of beer to a predetermined rate. When done correct the right amount of restriction will equal the applied pressure on the beer system, and a pour at 2 ounces per second.

Function

Flow restrictor segment sticks are designed to save underbar space. They do not require additional choke lines, which makes them an ideal choice for those who want to save space. Overall this is a very effective way to add the right restriction and is becoming the preferred method over adding vinyl choke line.The flow restrictor segment stick is an important component in the beverage dispensing system. It provides a consistent flow rate, which is essential for the quality of draft beer. By regulating the flow rate, the flow restrictor segment stick ensures that beer tastes the way it's suppose to and there's no foam, but clear beer.In summary, the flow restrictor segment stick is a device that provides consistent flow restriction right at the tower. It is designed to save underbar space, uses all Barriermaster Flavourlock™ Tubing, and ensures both performance and longevity. The flow restrictor segment stick is an essential component in the beverage dispensing system and is used in other systems that require a consistent flow rate.

Benefits of Using Flow Restrictor Segment Sticks

Flow restrictor segment sticks are an essential component of any beer dispensing system. They are designed to regulate the flow of beer from the keg to the tap, ensuring that the beer is dispensed with the right restriction value, and balanced. Here are some benefits of using flow restrictor segment sticks:

Cost Savings

One of the main benefits of using flow restrictor segment sticks is cost savings. By regulating the flow of beer, you can ensure that you are not wasting any beer. This means that you will be able to get more beer out of each keg, which will save you money in the long run. Additionally, by using flow restrictor segment sticks, you can ensure that you are not over-pouring beer, which can result in lost profits.

Increased Efficiency

Another benefit of using flow restrictor segment sticks is increased efficiency. By regulating the flow of beer, you can ensure that you are serving your customers quickly and efficiently. This means that you will be able to serve more customers in less time, which will increase your overall revenue. Additionally, by using flow restrictor segment sticks, you can ensure that your customers are getting a consistent pour every time, which will increase customer satisfaction.Flow restrictor segment sticks are a simple yet effective way to improve the efficiency and profitability of your beer dispensing system. By regulating the flow of beer, you can save money, increase efficiency, and improve customer satisfaction.

How to Install a Flow Restrictor Segment Stick

Installing a flow restrictor segment stick can help regulate the flow of beer, and balance your system. Here are the tools needed and a step-by-step guide to help you install one.

Tools Needed

Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools:

Oetiker Clamps
Oetiker Pliers
Restriction Stick
Cutters
Flavor Lock Tubing or XFM Tubing

Step-by-Step Guide

Here are the steps to install a flow restrictor kit in a draft beer system:1. Turn off the CO2 tank and untap the keg from the system.2. Locate the beer line that needs a flow restrictor. This is usually the line that is pouring too fast or foaming.3. Remove beer insulation, foil tape if needed on the trunkline below the beer tower.4. Insert the flow restrictor into the beer line. Use an oetiker clamp 13.3 to hold in place and secure both ends with the right sized oetiker clamp.5. Wrap the area with foil tape, insulation and beer tape6. Turn on the CO2 tank and tap the keg.7. Test the flow rate by pouring a beer.That's it! Installing a flow restrictor kit can help ensure that your beer is poured at the perfect rate, resulting in a better tasting beer and less waste.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Proper maintenance and troubleshooting can help prevent these issues and keep the flow restrictor functioning properly.

Cleaning

One of the most important steps in maintaining a flow restrictor is keeping it clean. Over time, debris and sediment can build up inside the restrictor, causing it to become clogged and reducing the flow of beer. To clean a flow restrictor, follow these steps1. Turn off the CO2 tank and unplug the keg from the system.2. Remove the faucet and disassemble it, including the handle, shank, and spout.3. Soak the parts in a cleaning solution, such as a beer line cleaner, for the recommended of time.4. While the parts are soaking, connect a cleaning pump to the beer line and flush out beer in system with restrictors.5. Pump the cleaning solution through the beer line for at least 15 mins. Recommend MM Alkaline Cleaner.6. Rinse the line with clean water by pumping it through the line until it runs clear. Test with PH Paper.7. Reassemble the faucet and reattach it to the shank.8. Turn on the CO2 tank and plug the keg back into the system.9. Pour water out of system until beer starts flowing.

It's important to clean your beer lines regularly, as dirty lines can lead to off-flavors and other issues with your beer. By doing this your beer lines and restriction rods will be clean too.

Regular cleaning can help prevent clogs and keep the flow restrictor functioning properly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, using flow restriction rods in your draft beer system can be a simple and effective way to control the flow rate of your beer and ensure a consistent pour every time. By installing a flow restrictor kit and adjusting the flow rate to your desired level, you can prevent waste, maintain the quality of your beer, and improve the overall experience for your customers. Additionally, regular cleaning of your beer lines is essential to maintaining the quality and taste of your beer, so be sure to follow the proper cleaning steps to keep your system running smoothly.

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