Choosing an ideal keg for storing beer can be challenging, especially if you are new to brewing and beer storage processes. There are many different beer storage barrels, including sanke and corny kegs. Most homebrewers are constantly faced with the challenge of choosing one that works better.
The good news is that I have used both for over seven years and would like to share my knowledge. We will discuss the differences, similarities, pros and cons of Sanke vs corny kegs in detail. This will help you make an informed decision when purchasing one.
Sanke vs Corny Keg Overview
Sanke and corny keg are great beer barrels that help both commercial and homebrewers store and dispense their beer. They come in different sizes and are easy to work with if you understand the process.
In most cases, a corny keg(also known as Cornelius keg) is mostly used by homebrewers due to its affordability and availability. The barrel eliminates the processes of cleaning, filling, and capping when bottling your beer. This helps curb any possibility of oxidation and bacterial infection.
Sanke, on the other hand, is mostly used by commercial brewers. The barrel is designed with safety features that prevent over-pressurization. They come with a pressure relief valve (PRV), which vents excessive pressure from the keg. This is crucial in a commercial setting where kegs may be pressurized to different levels.
Sanke Keg
Sanke keg (also known as Sankey keg) is a barrel used mostly by commercial brewers to store and dispense beer, cider, soda, and other carbonated beverages. The barrel was first used in the United States of America by Hamn’s in 1978, replacing the unsanitary traditional barrels like bungholes.
So, how does this barrel work to ensure you dispense beer without any hassle? Well, Sanke has a single valve at the top that allows both gases (mostly CO2) and beer to pass through via a coupler.
Sanke also features a spear in the valve that runs to the bottom. When the gas is connected, it pushes beer to the bottom, and then it penetrates up through the spear for dispensing. Most of them also feature a pressure relief valve (PRV) to release excessive pressure. This ensures safe storage and dispensing.
There are different sizes of Sanke kegs that hold different volumes of beer and other beverages. Here are some common types:
- 1/2 barrel keg(full size-keg): This type holds approximately 15.5 gallons (58.67 liters) of liquid. It is the standard size of keg and is mainly used by commercial brewers to transport beers in bars and restaurants.
- 1/4 Barrel Keg: Also known as a “quarter keg” or “pony keg,” it holds approximately 7.75 gallons (29.33 litres) of liquid.
- 1/6 Barrel Keg: This size is often referred to as a “sixth barrel” or “sixtel” and holds approximately 5.16 gallons (19.56 litres) of liquid. It’s commonly used by craft breweries and for specialty beers.
Sanke keg also comes in different types, depending on the coupler design and the region where the keg is used. Here are some of the types:
- D-Type Coupler (American Sanke): This is the standard coupler used in the United States and many other countries. It has a large lever handle and is compatible with most American-style beers.
- S-Type Coupler (European Sanke): Commonly used in Europe, this coupler has a smaller lever handle. It is used for beers from breweries that follow European standards.
- A-Type Coupler: This is used most in German beers. Some of the beers stored and transported in this keg include Spaten, Pulaner, and Hacker-Poschorr.
- U-Type Coupler: This is another common coupler in the UK. It is commonly used with Guinness and Harp Kegs.
Advantages
- They come in different sizes, making it easy to hold different beer volumes depending on the occasion.
- They come in different types, allowing commercial brewers and other people to choose one compatible with their couplers.
- They help keep beer cold(when stored at an ideal temperature or in a kegerator) and fresh.
- They help eliminate unnecessary costs of bottling and packaging. The beer is siphoned directly from the fermenter to keg and poured into a glass through the tap.
- They have an airtight seal that helps prevent oxygen and other bacteria from entering the beer.
- They are made of stainless steel, a material that can withstand a rigors of commercial uses and, hence, last longer.
Disadvantages
- Sanke couplers and fittings vary depending on the brewery. Therefore, not all Sanke kegs are compatible with each other. This can make it challenging to switch between different beers or brands.
- Their size and weight can make transportation and storage less efficient, especially in smaller spaces or for mobile setups.
- Some may be lacking the in-built pressure release valve (PRV). This makes it challenging to release excessive pressure inside the keg.
Corny Keg
A corny Keg(also called Cornelius or soda keg) is a pressurized stainless steel canister that stores and dispenses beer and other carbonated drinks. The keg was first made by Cornelius, Inc. and was mainly designed for soft drink industries.
Cornelius keg has become popular among homebrewers and craft beer enthusiasts for its convenience and ease of use. It can hold up to a maximum pressure of 130 psi, making it one of the most versatile equipment in the brewing industry.
So, how does the barrel work, and is it easy to use? Okay, the corny keg has two ports that help dispense beer. One is for “gas in,” and the other one is for “liquid out.” These ports are labeled to ensure you connect them correctly.
Both ports have tubes to aid in the movement of gas and liquid, in this case, beer. The gas port has a shorter tube that does not touch the liquid inside. Its main work is to supply gas (CO2 or nitrogen gas) into the keg, pressurizing it to push beer out through the outlet.
The liquid port, on the other hand, has a long tube that reaches the bottom of the keg. When the gas is forced into the keg through the INLET, it pushes beer from the bottom through the tubes until it reaches “out port.”
Like the sanke keg, this one also comes in different sizes. For instance, it comes in sizes of 5-gallon (19-liter) and 2.5-gallon (9.5-litre). The 5-gallon is the standard size for homebrewing, while the 2.5-gallon is often used for experimental batches or when you have limited space.
Advantages
- They are made of stainless steel, which resists corrosion and is durable
- They are equipped with a pressure relief valve or lid that can be released to relieve excess pressure inside the keg.
- A corny keg has a central opening, which is wide enough to allow you to clean the inner parts. This opening is also used to fill it with your favorite drink.
- They are compatible with various fittings and connectors, making it easier to find replacement parts or customize your setup.
- They come in different sizes, making them suitable for different batch sizes and storage constraints.
- They are conducive to DIY modifications, such as adding additional taps, temperature control systems, or kegging accessories.
Disadvantages
- They require regular maintenance to ensure they function well and are free from contaminants. This can be time-consuming, especially if you have other things to do.
- Corny kegs come in various sizes but are generally smaller than commercial kegs. This limitation can be a disadvantage if you need to serve large quantities of beverages.
- The rubber seals and O-rings in corny kegs can wear out over time, potentially leading to leaks or loss of carbonation if not properly maintained.
Comparing Sanke and Corny Keg
We have seen that these two pieces of equipment are ideal for storing and dispensing beer. However, while they are important in your brewing arsenal and offer unique characteristics, these barrels have similarities and differences every beer lover should understand.
Similarities
- Both come in different sizes, making it easy to hold different beer volumes depending on the occasion.
- Both are made from stainless steel to ensure no corrosion, which could affect the beer flavor. The stainless steel material also ensures these barrels last longer.
- Both help curb unnecessary costs of bottling and packaging. The beer is dispensed from the keg into the glass.
- Both have an airtight seal that helps prevent oxygen and other bacteria from entering the beer.
- Both have a connection to carbon dioxide to carbonate and dispense beer under pressure.
- Both can be tapped and connected to a draft system for serving beer. For instance, you can connect them to a keezer or kegerator.
- Both have a pressure relief valve (PRV) that helps release excess pressure when needed to ensure safety.
Differences
- A corny keg is best suited for small batches and experimental brews, while sanke is ideal for large-scale beer distribution.
- A corny has two ports: “gas in” and liquid out,” which help dispense beer. On the other hand, sanke has one valve fitted with a coupler to aid in dispensing beer.
- A corny uses a pin-lock or ball-lock disconnects for connecting hoses and dispensing, while Sanke uses standard couplers.
- A corny keg has a central opening, which is wide enough to allow you to fill it with beer. On the other hand, sanke is filled by connecting a coupler to the valves and transferring beer from a fermenter.
- A corny is always smaller in size, typically 5-gallons. On the other hand, Sanke is always large enough to hold more beer for commercial use. A full size is always 15.5 gallons.
- A corny keg is always cheaper than sanke, which is why most homebrewers prefer it.
Major Distinguishing Factor
The primary distinguishing factor between the two is that a corny has two ports: “gas in” and liquid out,” which help dispense beer and other beverages. On the other hand, sanke has one valve fitted with a coupler to aid in dispensing beer.
Another notable distinguishing characteristic is that a corny has a removable lid. The lid helps users fill the barrel and clean it easily. That is why homebrewers mostly use a corny since they do not need a special tool to open it.
When to Use a Corny Keg
The best time to use a corny is when brewing a small amount of beer. A corny keg is smaller in size, making it ideal for homebrewers who often brew a smaller amount of beer. The barrel is also easy to use since it has a removable lid that allows you to fill it with beer easily.
When to Use a Sanke Keg
You may opt for a sanke keg if you are a commercial brewer since they come in large sizes. These barrels come in sizes of up to 15.5 gallons, making it easy to hold different beer volumes depending on the occasion.
Which Is Better: Sanke vs Corny Keg?
The better option between the two is a corny keg. A corny is better because it is easy to use and clean. The barrel has a removable lid that helps users fill it with the desired beer. The lid also makes it easier for users to clean when it is empty.
Conclusion
Sanke and Corny Keg are two vital pieces of equipment that help store and dispense beer. The choice largely depends on preferences and requirements. Sanke kegs are more common in commercial settings, offering durability and efficiency.
Corny kegs, on the other hand, favor homebrewers since they provide ease of use and versatility. The choice an individual makes should align with their specific needs and brewing scale.