What is a Beer Gas Manifold?
A beer gas manifold is a metal or plastic manifold system that enables the delivery of gas to multiple kegs using one regulator .
A standard manifold consists of a large central chamber with two, three or four individual regulator chambers. In most systems, all valve posts have shut-off valves for each regulator post. A good example of this type of device can be seen in the image below, which shows a typical 4-circuit manifold.
The benefit of a Beer Gas Manifold is that you can use one regulator to maintain multiple kegs at the same pressure. So there's one regulator that can regulate applied pressure to an array of kegs. This is ideal for home brewers using cornelius kegs. Gas manifolds can also be found in commercial dispensing systems.
Benefits of using a Beer Gas Manifold
Increased Efficiency. Using one regulator on a manifold to maintain pressure in several kegs ensures that every keg gets the same amount of gas. This means there's no need to adjust the pressure on each individual tank, which saves you time.
How to use a Beer Gas Manifold
Connect the 5/16 red air hose to the gas-in port of the manifold. This will be coming from either a primary regulator or secondary regulator. Next, connect red air line to the corresponding shut-off valve on your manifold, then connect the other end to an appropriate keg coupler. Repeat step 2 for each individual shut-off valve until you've connected every line in turn.
Third, close all valves and open the gas-in valve to start CO2 flow into the manifold. The applied keg pressure for most kegs should be between 12-14 PSI if using pure Co2. Open the shut-off valves on the manifold to get applied pressure to your keg.
At this point you can check for leaks by applying soapy water to joints with your finger - any bubbles will indicate a problem area.
How to Install a Gas Manifold System
CO2 systems are not hard to install if you follow these steps. You will need a few basic tools that you probably already have at home.
To get started, ensure your tank is fully charged with CO2 - this will ensure the gas travels through the system.
First, mount the gas manifold to the wall. I'll use 5/16 Hex Head self Tap screws because I am usually using these in beer walk-in coolers. If you are mounting these in to wood. I'd recommend stainless wood screws.
Second, Connect an air hose to the manifold inlet. This can be 1/4" or 5/16" I.D depending on the hose barb fitting. Connect the shut off valves to each coupler. You can use hose or worm clamps. I personally use 15.7 or 16.2 Oetiker Clamps for a secure fitting.
Then hook up each regulator in turn until you've connected them all. Use teflon tape on all threaded connections to ensure no leaks occur.
Best Beer Gas Manifolds for Purchase
There are two different gas manifolds I'd recommend. If you are looking for a budget buy I'd recommend these below.You can buy these online at Amazon below. Click on the Pictures for links.
The next one is a higher quality gas manifold sold through Micro-Matic. This is the best beer gas manifold you can buy. They also have 2-way, 3-way and so on.
Summary
Beer gas manifolds can help you save time and money while increasing efficiency in your business. They are relatively inexpensive to purchase. Easy to use, require little maintenance, and can be easily transferred from one location to another if necessary. And best of all, they will help you serve multiple beers with one regulator!
For more information check out my Blog about draft beer dispense education. If you are looking for products here's my recommended products page.
Cheers!