How Much Does an Empty Keg Weigh?

As a beer enthusiast, you may have wondered about the weight of an empty keg. The weight of an empty keg is a crucial factor to consider when transporting or storing beer. In this article, we will explore the factors that affect the weight of an empty keg and answer the question: how much does an empty keg weigh?

The weight of an empty keg can vary depending on its size and material. Kegs are commonly used for storing and dispensing beer, and are an important component in the brewing and hospitality industries. Many people are curious about the weight of an empty keg, as it can impact transportation and handling. In this article, we will explore the factors that affect the weight of an empty keg, and provide some typical weights for different types of kegs.

Understanding Kegs

Before we dive into the weight of an empty keg, let’s first understand what kegs are and how they are made. Kegs are containers that hold beer or other liquids. They are typically made of stainless steel or aluminum and come in various sizes, ranging from 5 gallons to 15.5 gallons. Kegs are pressurized containers that keep beer carbonated and fresh until it is ready to be served.

Types of Kegs

There are two types of kegs: Sankey Kegs and Corny Kegs. Sankey Kegs are the most common kegs used in commercial settings, while Corny Kegs are used by homebrewers. Sankey Kegs are larger and have a standard size and shape, while Corny Kegs are smaller and come in different sizes and shapes.

Keg Parts

Kegs have several parts, including the keg body, spear, and valve. The keg body is the container that holds the beer. The spear is a long, metal tube that runs through the center of the keg and allows the beer to be dispensed. The valve is the mechanism that controls the flow of beer.

Factors Affecting the Weight of an Empty Keg

The weight of an empty keg depends on several factors, including the material of the keg, the size of the keg, and the thickness of the keg walls.

As a beer enthusiast, it is important to understand the weight of an empty keg when transporting and storing beer. The weight of an empty keg depends on several factors including the material, size, and thickness of the keg walls. Stainless steel kegs are heavier than aluminum kegs, and larger kegs are heavier than smaller kegs. Knowing the weight of an empty keg can help you choose the right keg for your needs and handle it safely to avoid injuries. The easiest way to determine the weight of an empty keg is to weigh it, but you can also estimate the weight based on its material, size, and thickness.

Material of the Keg

The material of the keg is the most significant factor in determining the weight of an empty keg. Kegs are typically made of stainless steel or aluminum. Stainless steel kegs are heavier than aluminum kegs. A 5-gallon stainless steel keg weighs around 10 pounds, while a 5-gallon aluminum keg weighs around 6 pounds.

Size of the Keg

The size of the keg is another factor that affects the weight of an empty keg. The larger the keg, the heavier it will be. A 5-gallon keg weighs less than a 15.5-gallon keg. The weight of a 15.5-gallon stainless steel keg is around 29 pounds, while an aluminum 15.5-gallon keg weighs around 22 pounds.

Thickness of the Keg Walls

The thickness of the keg walls also affects the weight of an empty keg. Thicker walls make the keg heavier. Kegs with thicker walls are more durable and can withstand more pressure. However, thicker keg walls also mean less space for beer.

Transporting or Storing Beer

The weight of an empty keg is crucial when transporting or storing beer. If you are transporting beer, you need to consider the weight of the keg and the beer combined. Overloading your vehicle with too much weight can be dangerous and lead to accidents. Additionally, if you are storing beer, you need to consider the weight of the keg to ensure that your storage area can support the weight.

Choosing the Right Keg

Knowing the weight of an empty keg helps you choose the right keg for your needs. If you are a homebrewer, you may prefer a smaller keg that is easier to handle and transport. On the other hand, if you are running a bar or restaurant, you may prefer a larger keg that can hold more beer and reduce the need for frequent refills.

Handling the Keg Safely

Handling a keg can be dangerous, especially if you are not aware of its weight. If you attempt to lift a keg that is too heavy for you, you risk injuring yourself or others. Additionally, if you drop a keg, it can cause damage to the keg and the surroundings. Therefore, knowing the weight of an empty keg helps you handle it safely and avoid injuries.

How to Determine the Weight of an Empty Keg

Now that we know why it is essential to know the weight of an empty keg let’s explore how to determine the weight of an empty keg.

Weighing the Keg

The easiest way to determine the weight of an empty keg is to weigh it. You can use a scale to weigh the keg or refer to the manufacturer’s specifications. The weight of the keg is usually stamped on the keg body or the valve. If you do not have access to a scale, you can estimate the weight of the keg based on its material, size, and thickness.

Estimating the Weight of the Keg

To estimate the weight of the keg, you need to consider its material, size, and thickness. Stainless steel kegs are heavier than aluminum kegs. The larger the keg, the heavier it will be. Thicker keg walls make the keg heavier.

Here is a table that shows the estimated weight of empty kegs based on their size and material:

| Keg Size | Stainless Steel Keg Weight | Aluminum Keg Weight |
| — | — | — |
| 5 gallons | 10 pounds | 6 pounds |
| 7.5 gallons | 16 pounds | 10 pounds |
| 15.5 gallons | 29 pounds | 22 pounds |

Keep in mind that these are estimated weights and may vary depending on the keg’s thickness and manufacturer.

FAQs – How much does an empty keg weigh?

What is a keg and why is it important to know its weight?

A keg is a container used to store and transport beverages, such as beer, soda, and wine. The weight of an empty keg is an essential factor when it comes to handling and distributing kegs. Knowing the weight of an empty keg is crucial because it helps determine how many kegs can be carried safely, the amount of beer or other beverages that can be stored in a keg, and the dosage or volume measurements for dispensing and serving.

How much does an empty keg weigh on average?

The weight of an empty keg varies depending on the type, size, and material used to make the keg. The most common type of keg used for beer is a stainless steel keg, which has an average weight of 30 pounds (13.6 kg) when empty. There are other types of kegs, such as aluminum and plastic kegs, which have different weights of around 20-25 pounds (9-11 kg) and 10-15 pounds (4.5-6.8 kg), respectively.

How can I determine the weight of a specific keg?

To determine the weight of a specific keg, you need to know the type, size, and material used for the keg. The keg’s weight is usually indicated on the keg or the manufacturer’s label, along with other information such as the volume capacity and pressure ratings. Alternatively, you can weigh the keg using a scale or a weight measuring device. Keep in mind that the weight of a keg may also vary depending on whether it is full or empty, so it’s essential to consider this factor as well.

Can the weight of an empty keg differ depending on the brand?

Yes, the weight of an empty keg can differ depending on the brand and manufacturer. Although there are standard sizes and dimensions for kegs, the materials used, thicknesses, and construction methods can vary based on the brand’s specifications and standards. Therefore, it’s crucial to check the manufacturer’s specifications or label to determine the exact weight of the keg. Additionally, the weight may also vary depending on the age and condition of the keg. Older kegs may have dents, damages, or add-on components that can affect their weight.