Beer Gas Systems: Nitrogen Generator Benefits and Installation Guide

Nitrogen generators for beer systems are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to provide a consistent and high-quality nitrogen gas supply for dispensing draft beer. These generators extract nitrogen gas from the air, purify it, and use it to pressurize beer kegs, resulting in a smooth and creamy pour. This method is preferred over traditional beer gas and gas cylinders, which can be costly and require frequent replacement. By using a gas blender, establishments can achieve the proper gas blend for different beer types, enhancing the quality and consistency of the pour.

Nitrogen generators are particularly beneficial for nitrogenated beers like Guinness, which require a specific gas blend of 75% nitrogen and 25% CO2 for optimal dispensing. They are also suitable for most ales and lagers, with a common blend of 70% nitrogen and 30% CO2. Custom blends can be created for specific beer styles or preferences. Gas blenders efficiently achieve these custom blends, ensuring the right ratios for optimal taste and efficiency. In addition to beer, nitrogen generators can be used for dispensing wine, coffee, and other beverages, offering versatility and cost savings by reducing the need for frequent gas cylinder replacements.

Understanding Nitrogen Generators

Nitrogen generators offer several advantages over traditional nitrogen delivery methods, such as nitrogen cylinders.

How Nitrogen Generators Work

Nitrogen generators work by separating nitrogen from the air. The compressed air is passed through a series of filters to remove impurities. The filtered air is then passed through a membrane or pressure swing adsorption (PSA) system that separates the nitrogen from the other gases in the air.

The nitrogen produced is typically around 99% pure, which is suitable for most beer dispensing equipment and applications. The generated nitrogen is blended with carbon dioxide (CO2) to create the desired gas mixture for dispensing beer. Gas blenders play a crucial role in achieving the correct gas blends for different types of beverages, ensuring the right ratios of CO2 and nitrogen for optimal taste and efficiency.

Advantages of Nitrogen Generators

Nitrogen generators offer several advantages over traditional nitrogen delivery methods. These advantages include:

• Cost savings: Nitrogen generators eliminate the need for nitrogen cylinders, which can be expensive to purchase and refill.
• Convenience: Nitrogen generators provide a continuous supply of nitrogen, eliminating the need to order and store nitrogen cylinders.
• Customization: Nitrogen generators allow for the creation of custom gas blends to suit specific beer styles and dispensing requirements.
• Reliability: Nitrogen generators are reliable and require minimal maintenance.

Choosing a Nitrogen GeneratorWhen choosing a nitrogen generator, there are several factors to consider. These include:

• Flow rate: The flow rate of the nitrogen generator should be sufficient to meet the demands of the beer dispensing system.
• Gas purity: The nitrogen generator should produce nitrogen that is at least 99% pure.
• Generator size: The size of the generator should be appropriate for the available space and the expected demand for nitrogen.
• Integration with existing equipment: The nitrogen generator should be compatible with the existing beer dispensing system and equipment.

Professional Recommendation For a Nitrogen Generator

Green Air Gas Supply Nitrogen Generators, are the ultimate solution for your commercial draft beer system. Our cutting-edge nitrogen generators offer unmatched performance and sustainability, making them the best choice for your business. With Green Air, you'll enjoy:

1. Cost Efficiency: Say goodbye to expensive nitrogen cylinder refills from gas suppliers and rental fees from gas suppliers. Our generators produce on-demand, high-purity nitrogen, reducing operating costs.

2. Eco-Friendly: We're committed to a greener planet. Our generators significantly reduce carbon emissions by eliminating the need for nitrogen transportation, making your business more sustainable.

3. Precision Control: Achieve the perfect bottle pour every time. Green Air generators provide precise nitrogen flow control, ensuring optimal beverage quality and consistency.

4. Reliability: Count on us for uninterrupted service. Our generators are built to last, minimizing downtime and maximizing the efficiency of your draft beer system.

Lastly, I've personally put these in and they add a lot of value for my customers. Ultimately, the beer pours great and my customers maximize their keg yield of 90+%

Understanding Beer Gas and Its Role in Draft Beer Systems

Beer gas is a crucial component of draft beer systems, playing a vital role in maintaining the perfect pour. It is a mixture of carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen gases, which work together to propel beer through the system and maintain optimal carbonation levels. The type of beer, system length, temperature, and type of beer system determines the type of beer gas used. Understanding the role of beer gas in draft beer systems is essential for ensuring the quality and consistency of the beer served.

In a draft beer system, carbon dioxide is responsible for maintaining the beer’s carbonation, while nitrogen helps create a smooth and creamy texture, especially in nitrogenated beers like stouts. The right balance of these gases ensures that the beer is dispensed with the correct level of carbonation and mouthfeel, providing a consistent and enjoyable drinking experience for customers.

Different types of beer require different gas blends to achieve the desired carbonation and texture. For example, ales and lagers typically use a blend of 70% nitrogen and 30% CO2, while nitrogenated beers like Guinness use a blend of 75% nitrogen and 25% CO2. The length of the beer line and the temperature of the system also play a role in determining the appropriate gas blend, as these factors can affect the beer’s carbonation and overall quality.

By understanding the role of beer gas in draft beer systems, establishments can ensure that they are using the correct gas blend for each type of beer, resulting in a better drinking experience for their customers.

Importance in the Draft Beer System

Nitrogen generators are essential for ensuring the quality and consistency of beer. By replacing traditional gas cylinders with on-demand nitrogen generators, establishments can have greater control over the carbonation and nitrogenation of their beers, resulting in a better drinking experience for customers.

One of the primary benefits of using nitrogen generators in the beer system is the ability to create a smoother mouthfeel and creamier head-on nitrogenated beers like stouts. Nitrogen is also used to pressurize kegs during delivery and maintain carbonation levels, ensuring that beer is delivered fresh and ready to drink. Using the proper gas blend can prevent flat beer, which can lead to over-pouring and loss of revenue.

When combined with carbon dioxide, nitrogen can be used to create blended gases that are tailored to the specific needs of different beers. For example, nitrogen can be used to create a 25/75 blend gas supply companies make for nitrogenated beers like Guinness, while a 70/30 blend mixed by gas supply companies is more suitable for most ales and lagers.

Overall, nitrogen generators play a crucial role in the beer system by ensuring that beer is delivered at the optimal carbonation and nitrogenation levels, resulting in a better drinking experience for customers.

Types of Gas Blends and Mixtures

There are various types of gas blends and mixtures used in draft beer systems, each designed to meet specific needs. Some common types of gas blends include:

• 70/30 CO2/Nitrogen: This blend is suitable for ales and lagers, providing the right balance of CO2 and nitrogen to maintain optimal carbonation levels. The 70% nitrogen helps create a smooth pour, while the 30% CO2 ensures the beer retains its carbonation and flavor.
• Guinness Gas: Specifically designed for nitrogenated beers like Guinness, this blend consists of 25% CO2 and 75% nitrogen. The high nitrogen content creates the signature creamy head and smooth mouthfeel that Guinness is known for, while the CO2 maintains the beer’s carbonation.
• 60/40 CO2/Nitrogen: Ideal for beers with low levels of carbonation, this blend provides a more subtle flavor profile. The 60% CO2 ensures the beer has enough carbonation, while the 40% nitrogen adds a smooth texture without overpowering the beer’s natural flavors.

Each of these gas blends serves a specific purpose in draft beer systems, ensuring that different types of beer are dispensed with the appropriate level of carbonation and mouthfeel. By selecting the right gas blend for each beer, establishments can enhance the overall quality and consistency of their draft beer offerings.

Installation and Maintenance

The installation and maintenance of Green Air Supply Nitrogen Generators are designed to be straightforward and hassle-free, ensuring that beer gas in your own home or commercial draft beer system remains in peak condition. Here's what you need to know:

Installation:

1. Site Assessment: Before installation, a qualified technician will conduct a site assessment to determine the best location for the generator. Factors such as proximity to the draft beer system and electrical requirements will be considered.

2. Mounting and Setup: The generator is typically wall-mounted or installed in a dedicated space. It's connected to a power source and the beer system, and the necessary plumbing connections are established.

3. Startup and Calibration: Once installed, the system is started up and calibrated to ensure precise nitrogen production and flow rates. This calibration is essential for consistent beer quality.

Maintenance:

1. Regular Inspections: A routine inspection schedule is crucial for preventing issues. Technicians should inspect the system for any leaks, damaged components, or signs of wear. The frequency of inspections may vary based on usage and environmental conditions.

2. Filter Replacement: Green Air Nitrogen Generators are equipped with filters to ensure high-purity nitrogen. These filters should be replaced according to the manufacturer's recommendations to maintain performance.

3. Scheduled Maintenance: Periodic maintenance by a certified technician is recommended. This includes checking the generator's internal components, verifying calibration, and ensuring that the system operates optimally.

4. Emergency Service: In case of a system malfunction or downtime, Green Air provides emergency service and support to minimize disruptions to your draft beer service.

5. User Training: Training your staff on basic maintenance tasks, such as filter replacement or identifying common issues, can help prevent problems and extend the lifespan of the generator.

Here's a video showing the installation of a Green Air Supply Nitrogen Generator

By following a regular maintenance schedule and ensuring that installation is performed by qualified professionals, you can maximize the longevity and efficiency of your Green Air Gas Supply Nitrogen Generator. The peace of mind that comes with reliable, on-demand nitrogen production is a significant benefit for your commercial draft beer system.

Cost and Energy Efficiency

The cost of a nitrogen generator for a beer system can vary depending on the size and type of system. PSA nitrogen generators are typically more expensive upfront, but they offer stable gas costs, low energy usage, and high purity (up to 99.999 percent). Membrane nitrogen generators are typically less expensive upfront, but they may not offer the same level of purity as PSA generators.

Engineered nitrogen generator systems can be completely customized for a brewery or winery, but they may come with a higher price tag.

In terms of energy efficiency, nitrogen generators for beer systems are a more sustainable option compared to traditional nitrogen tanks. Nitrogen tanks require frequent refills and can be heavy and difficult to move around. Nitrogen generators, on the other hand, only require electricity to run and can produce nitrogen on-site, eliminating the need for deliveries.

Overall, nitrogen generators for beer systems are cost-effective and energy-efficient option for breweries and wineries.

Impact on Beer Quality

One of the main benefits of using nitrogen in beer is its ability to create a creamy and smooth mouthfeel. Nitrogenated beers have a creamy mouthfeel and unique texture that is different from carbonated beers. Nitrogen bubbles are smaller than carbon dioxide bubbles, which creates a smoother and creamier mouthfeel texture. This texture is especially desirable in stouts and other dark beers. Achieving the proper gas blend for different beer types is crucial to maintain quality and consistency, affecting carbonation, taste, and presentation.

Temperature is another important factor in the quality of beer. Nitrogen generators can help to maintain the proper temperature of the beer system. CO2 can be affected by temperature fluctuations inside a beer walk-in cooler. Using a blended gas reduces temperature/pressure fluctuations.

In summary, nitrogen generators have a significant impact on the quality of beer. They help to create a unique mouthfeel, maintain proper pressure, prevent over-carbonation, and maintain the proper temperature. These benefits are especially important for nitrogenated beers, but can also be beneficial for other types of beer in the craft beer industry.

Optimizing Your Beer System with a Nitrogen Generator

Nitrogen generators are a popular choice for draft beer systems, offering a reliable and efficient way to produce high-quality nitrogen gas. These units are designed to detect beer gas leaks before they become catastrophic, reducing service call expenses, gas run-outs, and damage to the asset. By investing in a nitrogen generator, establishments can optimize their beer system, ensuring consistent pours and improved beer quality.

One of the key benefits of using a nitrogen generator is its ability to maintain the perfect gas blend for each type of beer. This ensures that the beer is dispensed with the correct level of carbonation and mouthfeel, resulting in a better drinking experience for customers. Additionally, nitrogen generators help minimize beer waste by maintaining the optimal gas blend, which can lead to increased profit margins for establishments.

Nitrogen generators also offer the advantage of on-demand nitrogen production, eliminating the need for frequent gas cylinder replacements. This not only reduces operational costs but also minimizes the environmental impact associated with gas transportation and storage. Furthermore, nitrogen generators are lightweight and compact units, making them easy to install and integrate into existing draft beer systems.

By optimizing their beer system with a nitrogen generator, establishments can ensure consistent beer quality, reduce waste, and maximize profit. The investment in a nitrogen generator pays off in the long run, providing a reliable and efficient solution for maintaining the perfect gas blend in draft beer systems.

Applications Beyond Beer

Nitrogen generators are not just limited to use in the beer industry. They have a wide range of applications in other industries as well.

Tea

Nitrogen can be used to create a creamy texture in tea, similar to that of nitro coffee. The nitrogen bubbles create a smooth and velvety texture that enhances the rich flavor in of the tea. Nitrogen-infused tea can be a great alternative to traditional tea, especially for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.

Craft Cocktails

Nitrogen can also be used in craft cocktails to create a unique drinking experience. Nitro cocktails have a creamy texture, similar to that of a milkshake. The nitrogen bubbles enhance the flavor of the cocktail and create a smooth finish. Nitro cocktails are becoming increasingly popular in bars and restaurants around the world.

Nitro Cold Brew coffee

Using the mixed gas from the generator ensures a perfect serving of cold-brew coffee every time.

Overall, nitrogen generators have a wide range of applications beyond beer. From tea to craft cocktails to triple, nitrogen can be used to create a unique and enjoyable drinking experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Benefits of Using Nitrogen Instead of CO2 in a Beer System?

One of the main benefits of using nitrogen instead of CO2 in a beer system is the smoother, creamier mouthfeel that nitrogen imparts to the beer. Nitrogen also produces smaller bubbles than CO2, which results in a denser head and a more visually appealing pour. Additionally, nitrogen is less soluble in beer than CO2, which means that it does not affect the flavor or aroma of the beer in the same way that CO2 can.

What is The Process For Adding Nitrogen to Beer Using a Nitrogen Generator?

The process for adding nitrogen to beer using a nitrogen generator tank is relatively simple. The generator uses compressed air to produce high-purity nitrogen gas, which is then blended with CO2 to create the desired gas mixture. This gas mixture is then forced into the beer keg or storage tank using a specialized dispensing system, which allows the nitrogen to dissolve into the beer and create the desired texture and mouthfeel.

What is The Typical Output Capacity of a Nitrogen Generator For a Beer System?

The typical output capacity of a nitrogen regulator generator for a beer system can vary depending on the size and type of the generator. However, most generators are capable of producing anywhere from 10 to 100 cubic feet of nitrogen gas per hour. This output capacity per nitrogen regulator is usually sufficient for most small to medium-sized beer dispensing systems.

What Factors Should be Considered When Choosing a Nitrogen Generator For a Beer System?

When choosing a nitrogen generator for a beer system, several factors should be considered. These include the size and capacity of the generator, the purity and quality of the nitrogen gas it produces, the ease of installation and operation, and the overall cost and value of the system.

Closing

In conclusion, a nitrogen generator for a beer system is an excellent investment for any bar or brewery that serves nitrogenated beers, ales, and lagers. It provides a safe, economical, and reliable source of ultra-pure nitrogen, which can be blended with CO2 to create the perfect gas mix for dispensing beer.

Overall, nitrogen generators can help lower costs and increase sales in the food and beverage industry. They are a valuable addition to any bar or brewery and are a must-have for anyone looking to serve high-quality beers.

If you have any other questions regarding nitrogen generators please reach out to Renny's Contact Page. And for more information check out the rest of our beer education blog.