Plastic beer kegs are durable enough for the tough world of brewing and distribution while providing benefits that steel kegs just cannot muster. Industry manufacturers have tested standard plastic beer kegs to 60 psi, which is at a better working pressure for carbonated beverages (like beer). They are very well-built kegs that take the beating during shipping and prevents cracking or being poked ( both of which will ruin your product )
How long a plastic beer keg will last ultimately depends on how they are designed and used. In comparison, single-use ones offer instant protection from mobility and storage, while multi-use versions can survive for years if handled correctly. Research from EcoKeg found that during transportation plastic kegs were damaged in less than 2 percent of cases, a vast improvement over steel kegs that are notoriously also battered by dents and scrapes making them expensive to fix.
Plastic beer kegs have been produced using materials such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate) that do not corrode, nor expand when the temperature changes. This property makes beer uncontaminated and fresh during its shelf life. In contrast, plastic kegs are less affected by their environment (humidity or beach) where steel kegs may need a protective lining to avoid rust.
In the previous installments we talked about how the plastic beer keg manages in extreme situations. All leading brewers have highlighted that the plastic kegs perform perfectly during real life high-impact environments and all experienced internationally shipping Keg to no significant damage; this is especially true for those who tested their capabilities such as BrewDog. They weigh, on average, about 1.5 kilograms and can absorb shock; therefore, they are perfect for long-distance distribution.
Durability also means the keg is leak-proof and handles pressure. The Union of Scientists for a plastic beer keg did research—for its title published by the Brewers Association, as well—and confirmed that carbonated beverage lines and kegs retain complete structural integrity even during prolonged exposure to carbonation pressures, meaning that the beverage remains secure and fresh inside until opening. Plastic kegs with a UV protected coating are employed to avoid beer quality issues due to light exposure, according to the Food and Beverage Packaging Council.
Henry Ford said, Durability is not just about enduring; it’s also about evolve. Their versatility in different conditions and applications makes plastic beer kegs a great option for breweries large and small. Plastic beer kegs combine strength and versatility by incorporating the latest materials and design.
Discover the benefits of plastic beer keg solutions — the durability, sustainability advantages, and more through current industry trends.