Propylene glycol for draft beer systems is a food grade, odorless, tasteless, and colorless antifreeze used as a preservative in many consumer goods. It absorbs water and has a syrupy consistency. In glycol systems, it’s the central cooling agent for keeping draft beer cold.

Glycol beer systems are often used for draft lines that run long distances. Here, beer is more likely to lose its temperature as it moves from the system to the draft tower. Any establishment that stores beer in walk-in coolers far removed from the bar counter should consider glycol systems.

Also called glycol chillers, glycol cooling systems comprise a refrigeration unit that keeps beer cool. However, you may also be interested in glycol heating systems if you offer draft coffee, cider, and other alcoholic drinks best served warm.

How does a glycol system beer work? These systems feature numerous components, but the three most important to its function include:

Power Pack

This commercial refrigeration unit circulates glycol throughout the system. It contains a coil with a cooling refrigerant for chilling the glycol reservoir. A circulation pump pushes glycol through a supply line to keep the beverage at the right temperature. The power pack also has a thermostat and compressor that helps maintain the temperature.

Trunk Line

Trunk lines are a collection of product lines and glycol lines. The product lines transport beer between the cooler and the beer tower. The glycol lines move between the power pack and the beer tower. Both product and glycol lines are wrapped in insulation for protection, typically foam and waterproof plastic. Glycol lines may be installed overhead or under the floor, whichever configuration is best for the establishment.

Beer Tower

Beer towers are what customers see at the bar. They feature an interior shank or faucet connected to taps on the outside. Bartenders simply pull the tap handle to produce fresh, delicious, and carbonated beer.