How many 12 oz beers are in a standard keg?

A standard keg holds 15.5 gallons of beer. Since there are 128 ounces in a gallon, a full keg contains 15.5 * 128 = 1,984 fluid ounces of beer. With 12 ounces per beer serving, a full keg can pour 164 beers (1,984/12 = 164).

What is a keg?

A keg is a small barrel, usually made of stainless steel, that is used to store and transport draught beer. Kegs come in a variety of sizes, but a standard full-size keg in the US holds 15.5 gallons, or approximately 165 12-ounce servings of beer.

Some key facts about standard kegs:

  • The most common size is a half barrel, which is 15.5 gallons.
  • A half barrel stands about 23 inches tall and has a diameter of 17 inches.
  • It weighs around 160 pounds when full.
  • The most common keg tap uses a coupler to seal to the keg opening and allow air pressure created by a CO2 tank to force the beer out.
  • Kegs require special taps to dispense the beer.
  • They are reusable and returnable. Distributors collect, clean and refill them.

So in summary, a standard full keg is 15.5 gallons and can hold about 165 12-ounce beers to be dispensed on tap. This makes them a popular choice for large parties, events, bars and restaurants. The keg allows draught beer to be transported from the brewery and served fresh on location.

History of Kegs

Kegs have been used to transport and store beer for centuries, evolving over time with innovations in manufacturing and materials. Some key points in the history of kegs:

  • 1800s – Early kegs were made of wood, bound with iron hoops.
  • 1930s – Stainless steel kegs introduced, allowing for higher pressure dispensing.
  • 1960s – Aluminum kegs become popular, easier to transport than steel.
  • 1970s – One-way kegs called “corny kegs” emerge as a cheaper disposable option.
  • 1980s – Plastic kegs introduced, even lighter weight and less chance of corrosion.
  • Today – Stainless steel kegs remain the most popular choice due to durability.

So kegs have evolved from heavy wood to lightweight and recyclable materials, all with the goal of keeping beer fresh and making transportation easier from brewer to consumer.

Types of Kegs

There are a few other common keg sizes beyond the standard 15.5 gallon keg:

  • Quarter barrel – 7.75 gallon keg, commonly used for microbrews. Holds about 82 12-oz beers.
  • Sixth barrel – 5.23 gallon keg, popular for small draft systems. Holds around 55 12-oz beers.
  • Pony keg – 3.875 gallon keg, portable size for parties. Holds around 40 12-oz beers.
  • Slim quarter – 6.6 gallon narrow keg, easier for stacking.
  • Corny keg – 5 gallon reusable homebrew keg.

So while full standard kegs are most common for large events and draft systems, smaller keg sizes allow for more flexibility for home and micro brewers.

How much beer can you get from a keg?

As we saw above, a full standard keg can hold 15.5 gallons of beer. Here’s a more detailed look at just how much beer can be poured from a full keg:

  • Gallons: 15.5 gallons
  • Ounces: 1,984 fluid ounces (15.5 gal * 128 fl oz per gallon)
  • 12-ounce beers: 164 (1,984 fl oz / 12 fl oz per beer)
  • 16-ounce beers: 124 (1,984 fl oz / 16 fl oz per beer)
  • 20-ounce beers: 99 (1,984 fl oz / 20 fl oz per beer)

So a standard full keg can pour anywhere from 99 twenty-ounce beers up to 164 twelve-ounce beers, depending on glass size.

This is why kegs are so popular for large gatherings and events. You can serve a large number of people beer on tap right from the keg.

Factors that affect volume

There are a few factors that can affect how much beer you actually get out of a keg:

  • Foam – A foamy pour will result in some beer loss, reducing the total pours available.
  • Spills – Any leaks or spills during tapping or pouring will lower yield.
  • Empty space – Some empty space is required for pressure dispensing, about 5-10% volume.
  • Settling – Yeast and sediment settling reduces available beer volume.

So real world yields are typically 10-20% lower than the theoretical maximum capacity. Proper tapping, pouring and handling technique helps minimize waste.

Measuring devices used for kegs

Since kegs contain large volumes of beer, specialized equipment is used to measure and dispense the contents:

  • Keg couplers – Attach to the keg valve to seal and allow gas pressure in.
  • Gauges – Show internal keg pressure and level.
  • Flow meters – Measure beer flow rate from the tap.
  • Taps – Valve or faucet for dispensing beer.
  • Drip tray – Catches spillage beneath the tap.
  • Tubing – Food grade plastic lines route beer.
  • Regulator – Controls CO2 pressure pushed into the keg.

Having the right equipment allows bartenders and servers to properly measure flow rates, prevent foaming and waste, and maximize the amount of beer dispensed.

Keg couplers

Keg couplers are devices that connect the tap and regulator to the keg:

  • Probe portion inserts into keg valve opening
  • Valve seal ensures an airtight fit
  • Allows CO2 gas flow from regulator into keg
  • Coupler remains in place for entire contents of keg
  • Two types: A-type and D-type couplers
  • A-type – two probes, one for gas, one for beer
  • D-type – single probe, rotates for gas or beer

Using the right coupler and keeping it properly sealed and maintained ensures good flow and minimizes oxygen exposure.

Keg taps

The tap is the dispensing valve and faucet used to pour beer from the keg:

  • Usually chrome-plated brass construction
  • Allows user to control flow rate
  • Two main types: picnic and tower taps
  • Picnic style – portable tap on side of keg
  • Tower style – mounted on a bar with long draft lines
  • Tap handles can be customized for branding
  • Flow rate is typically 1-2 oz per second

Taps are mounted to the bar top to create a professional draft beer presentation. They allow portions to be measured by timing the number of seconds the tap is opened.

How to maximize beer yield from a keg

To get the most beer out of a single keg, follow these best practices:

  • Use chilled beer – ideally 38-42°F – to minimize foaming.
  • Maintain proper CO2 pressure in keg, Typically 12-15 PSI.
  • Keep draft lines clean and cold with a glycol cooling system.
  • Use a drip tray to catch spillage and waste.
  • Dispense into chilled glassware to reduce foaming.
  • Pour smoothly without an aggressive motion.
  • Allow beer to settle after moving or tapping keg.
  • Gradually reduce PSI as keg empties to optimize flow.
  • Replace couplers, O-rings, and gaskets when worn.

Following a good handling procedure minimizes waste and allows you to get as many beers as possible out of each keg.

How many beers can you get from other keg sizes?

While a full-size keg holds about 165 twelve-ounce beers, smaller keg sizes produce lower yields. Here’s how many beers you can expect from other common keg capacities:

Keg Size Total Gallons Total Ounces 12 oz Beers 16 oz Beers
Sixth Barrel 5.23 669 55 41
Slim Quarter 6.6 843 70 52
Quarter Barrel 7.75 990 82 61
Corny Keg 5.0 640 53 40

So while full and half barrel kegs are best for large events, smaller keg sizes allow you to optimize draft beer for smaller gatherings.

Should you rent or buy your own keg?

When planning an event with keg beer, you have two main options – rent or buy:

Rent:

  • Don’t have to store when empty
  • Can try different beer styles
  • Lower up front cost
  • Pickup and return required
  • Deposit/rental fees apply

Buy:

  • Reusable for multiple events
  • Skip rental fees after purchase
  • Can customize taps and hardware
  • Responsible for storage, cleaning, maintenace
  • Higher upfront costs

For one-time or small events, renting kegs is usually preferred for simplicity and lower costs. Buying makes more sense for repeat large events, or for businesses with frequent draft turnover.

Where to rent kegs

  • Local beer distributors
  • Beverage retail stores
  • Grocery and liquor stores
  • Specialty beer boutiques
  • Online keg rental services
  • Directly from breweries and brewpubs

Call around to compare rental terms and beer selection. Make reservations in advance for popular styles and busy seasons.

Buying used kegs

To save on costs, used kegs can be purchased:

  • Check for dents, rust and damage
  • Inspect valve openings and fittings
  • Test seal with low air pressure
  • Look for detached handles or bases
  • Ensure couplers and taps are included
  • Wash thoroughly before use
  • Replace all gaskets and O-rings

Buying reconditioned kegs is an affordable option if you plan to own your own draft setup. Be aware of any leaks and be prepared to do some DIY repairs.

Keg FAQ

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about kegs:

How long does an open keg last?

An open keg will last:

  • Room temp: 2-3 days
  • Refrigerated: 1-2 weeks

Drink kegs quickly to avoid beer spoilage. Never re-tap a keg after it has been emptied and left disconnected.

What PSI should I use for kegs?

Ideal PSI is 12-15 PSI for a standard keg. Lower PSI for warmer beer or lighter styles like wheat beers that foam more. Higher PSI up to 30 for longer draft lines. Adjust within range for smooth pours.

How do I clean and care for kegs?

  • Rinse empty kegs well with hot water
  • Clean with keg cleaning solution and rinse thoroughly
  • Replace gaskets, O-rings, valves as needed
  • Lubricate parts with food grade keg lube
  • Store empty kegs sealed with CO2 purge if not using right away

Proper cleaning and maintenance keeps kegs functioning properly.

Conclusion

To summarize, a standard full size keg holds 15.5 gallons of beer, which is equal to about 165 twelve-ounce servings. Smaller keg sizes down to a sixth barrel are available for lower capacity needs. Maximizing the yield from a keg requires proper cooling, pressure, pouring technique and care. While renting kegs can be easier for one-time uses, purchasing kegs is more economical for frequent draft beer requirements. With the right equipment and handling, kegs allow you to bring fresh, cold draft beer anywhere there are people to enjoy it.

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