CFPS Draft Beer Systems and Technology 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the purpose of a secondary regulator in a multi-tap draft system?
- To increase CO2 pressure for stronger carbonation
- To allow individual pressure adjustment for each keg or beer line (Correct answer)
- To reduce nitrogen content in the gas blend
- To measure CO2 remaining in the tank
Correct answer: To allow individual pressure adjustment for each keg or beer line
Secondary regulators allow individual pressure settings for each keg or tower, so beers with different carbonation levels can each be dispensed at their optimal pressure.
Question 2: What must be done after cleaning draft beer lines with a caustic cleaner?
- Immediately fill lines with beer from the keg
- Thoroughly rinse lines with clean water to remove all chemical residue (Correct answer)
- Flush lines with nitrogen gas for 10 minutes
- Let lines air-dry for 24 hours
Correct answer: Thoroughly rinse lines with clean water to remove all chemical residue
After caustic line cleaning, lines must be thoroughly rinsed with clean water to remove all chemical residue before beer is served to customers.
Question 3: In a balanced draft system, what two factors primarily determine the correct CO2 serving pressure?
- The age of the keg and line diameter
- Beer line diameter and length only
- The desired carbonation level and beer temperature (Correct answer)
- The coupler type and gas blend used
Correct answer: The desired carbonation level and beer temperature
The correct CO2 pressure is determined by the beer's target carbonation level (volumes of CO2) and its serving temperature, as shown on a carbonation equilibrium chart.
Question 4: What is the recommended minimum beer line length for a direct-draw draft system using standard 3/16" vinyl tubing to provide proper flow resistance?
- 1–2 feet
- 3–4 feet
- 5–6 feet (Correct answer)
- 10–12 feet
Correct answer: 5–6 feet
Beer lines should be at least 5–6 feet of 3/16" tubing to provide adequate resistance to CO2 pressure and prevent uncontrolled foaming at the tap.
Question 5: What gas is most commonly used to dispense standard American ales and lagers in a draft system?
- 100% nitrogen
- A 75/25 nitrogen-CO2 blend
- 100% CO2 (Correct answer)
- A 50/50 CO2-nitrogen blend
Correct answer: 100% CO2
Standard ales and lagers are dispensed using 100% CO2, which both maintains carbonation and provides the pressure needed to push beer from keg to tap.
Question 6: What is beer stone (calcium oxalate) and why is it a problem in draft systems?
- A sediment that improves beer flavor when left undisturbed
- A mineral deposit that builds up in beer lines and harbors bacteria (Correct answer)
- A CO2 bubble compound that causes excessive foaming
- A yeast byproduct that enhances natural carbonation
Correct answer: A mineral deposit that builds up in beer lines and harbors bacteria
Beer stone is a calcium oxalate deposit that accumulates inside draft lines and equipment, providing a rough surface for bacteria to colonize and causing off-flavors in dispensed beer.
Question 7: How should a bar operator confirm that draft lines have been properly cleaned and rinsed before serving customers?
- Pour a test pint and evaluate it sensorially for chemical or soapy off-flavors (Correct answer)
- Check that the beer pours with a large foam head
- Verify that the FOB detector has re-engaged
- Confirm the glycol chiller temperature is within range
Correct answer: Pour a test pint and evaluate it sensorially for chemical or soapy off-flavors
After cleaning and rinsing, a trained staff member should taste the first pint to ensure no cleaning chemical residues or off-flavors are present before opening the tap to customers.
CFPS Draft Beer Systems and Technology 2
What is the purpose of a secondary regulator in a multi-tap draft system?