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Old 05-01-2008, 01:00 PM
Scott Zuhse Scott Zuhse is offline
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The number one issue with the initial shot of foam is a temperature difference behind the faucet. With gas in the beer, we all know what will happen if it is heated - expansion.

If we apply 14 PSIG to the keg for a 2.6 v/v beer @ 38 F, you will take care of business throughout the system until the warmer area behind the faucet. This is where the CO2 will breakout and collect. Open the faucet and first, out comes a shot of foam, then streaky and eventually clear beer. The beer clears since now the 38 F beer from the keg is cooling the faucet and the area prior to.

Tower cooling assists in overcoming this less the faucet temperature. If it is subjected to a warm area, not much can be done except focus on how the beer is dispensed. Preferably, watch the flow as the faucet is opened. If it is not clear, stop, dump this small amount out of the glass and then start over with clear beer. It is physically impossible to pour clear beer on top of foam that is already in the glass.

Regulator gauges can be off slightly. Possibly the vendor you purchase your gas from can check it for accuracy.

Be careful relieving too much pressure from an over carbonated keg. You may end up with flat beer.

Always calibrate thermometer in ice water and target temperature in that second glass of beer (chug first one).
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Scott Zuhse, Instructor Micro Matic Dispense Institute
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