A 5/16″ beer line is typically used for beer dispensing systems that have longer lines, usually over 25 feet in length. These lines are commonly found in commercial establishments such as bars, restaurants, and breweries.
The size of the beer line refers to the inner diameter of the tubing. In the case of a 5/16″ line, it means that the inside diameter of the tubing is 5/16 of an inch. This size is chosen for longer beer lines to help maintain the quality of the beer during dispensing.
When beer is dispensed through a long line, there can be a significant amount of resistance and pressure drop. This pressure drop can cause the beer to foam excessively and result in an inconsistent pour. To overcome this, a larger diameter line such as a 5/16″ is used to minimize the pressure drop and maintain a smooth flow of beer.
In addition to its use in beer dispensing systems, the 5/16″ tubing is also commonly used in gas line applications. It is often used to connect the gas source, such as a CO2 tank, to the beer keg or to other components of the dispensing system.
Personal Experience:
During my time working in a bar, we had a beer dispensing system with a long beer line that required the use of a 5/16″ tubing. The line was approximately 30 feet long, and we found that using a larger diameter line helped to ensure a consistent pour and minimize foaming issues.
One of the benefits of using a 5/16″ line was that it allowed for a higher flow rate of beer, which was important during busy periods when we had multiple customers ordering drinks simultaneously. The larger diameter line helped to maintain an efficient and continuous flow of beer, reducing waiting times for customers and improving overall service.
Another advantage of using a 5/16″ line was that it made it easier to clean and maintain the beer system. The larger diameter tubing allowed for better access when flushing out the lines and removing any buildup or residue that may have accumulated over time.
To summarize, a 5/16″ beer line is typically used in beer dispensing systems with longer lines, usually over 25 feet in length. It helps to minimize pressure drop and maintain a smooth flow of beer, reducing foaming issues. It is also commonly used for gas line applications in the beer dispensing system.